“Do you wish to transfer any passengers?”
Judge Swan came forward to the young skipper. At the same time Tom saw Mr. Dunstan and Mr. Crane at the rail, among the boat’s passengers.
“How soon before you’ll be under way, Captain Halstead?” asked his honor.
Now, Joe being fast asleep, Halstead had to answer for his friend.
“Judge, we ought to be under way soon.”
“Then tell the captain of the steamer you’ve no passengers to transfer,” directed his honor, next starting aft once more.
“No passengers to transfer, captain, thank you,” Tom answered.
“All right, ‘Meteor.’ Wish you good luck!” A moment later, after both craft had whistled, the passenger steamer continued on her way.
Now, it was too bad, of course, but noon came and found the “Meteor” still unable to proceed. Soon after that Jed appeared, setting up a table in the cockpit. A cloth was laid, and a pleasing luncheon spread before the delayed judge. Joe came to at the first mention of food, and the three members of the crew ate forward.
“It’s a mean thing to have such a break out on the open,” Joe complained, as he finished eating. “However, I’ll do the best I can for you.”