“You’d better, if you don’t want to find everything cold and tasteless,” insisted Jed, who thereupon went over to shake Halstead.
But Tom slipped up instantly, reaching for his swimming tights. Soon a splash was heard over the side. Joe followed him. Both felt more awake when they came back to towel down. As they dressed the savory smells of Jed’s best breakfast made them hurry.
“I’d sooner have you wake me up, Jed, than some folks I know,” announced Joe Dawson, as he passed his plate for the second helping of bacon, eggs and fried potatoes.
“It does taste good,” Halstead admitted with a relish, chewing hard. “But has there been any news from the house this morning?”
“Haven’t seen a soul, except you sleepers,” Jed answered.
“How did you wake up, anyway!” demanded Joe suspiciously. “Alarm clock at your head?”
“Yes,” assented Prentiss. “But it really woke me up. That’s more than it could do for you fellows.”
By the time they had that famous breakfast down all felt better. Tom and Joe adjourned to the deck, where Jed joined them as soon as he had washed the dishes and cleaned up.
“Here comes Mr. Dunstan now,” announced Joe presently.
All turned to look at the boat’s owner. Mr. Dunstan appeared to have aged greatly after his night’s vigil. His face was furrowed by care; he walked with a greater stoop than before.