The boys now took leave of the old woman, and the rest of the day they spent visiting various points of interest in the vicinity of the plantation. They also fished and went in swimming in a small stream which flowed near by and emptied into the Chagres.
At nightfall, four tired but happy boys were glad to get an early supper and seek the rest which a day of unusual activity demanded.
The next day, according to his plan, Mr. Andrews returned and remained overnight with Vasco's hospitable uncle.
Early Saturday morning, amid profuse expressions of regret at their departure and with invitations to come again, the travellers took up their journey homeward. This was made without special incident and was completed in safety.
CHAPTER XI.
NEW AMBITION
"Did you have a good time on your trip with Harlan and his father?" asked Lieutenant Barretas of Vasco.
"To be sure I did," was the answer. "I am not likely ever to forget the sights I have seen in this journey through our country."
"I hope you thanked your American friends for the pleasure you have enjoyed."