“This happened to be the only one sailing soon,” was the answer from Mr. Lewis. “I took for granted that it would be satisfactory.”
They went up the gangplank, having resolved to make the best of a bad matter.
“Anyway,” said Bob, “it’s far better than not going at all.”
The vessel was not to lift anchor until late that afternoon, and so the youths had some time to walk about the docks.
“Whatever you do, get back here in time,” warned Mr. Lewis, as the chums left down the gangplank. “It would be a terrible thing to be left behind.”
“We’ll be there,” returned Bob.
He and Joe spent some time in looking around. They saw many strange and interesting people and things at the waterfront, and would have liked to stay longer. But at one o’clock they decided to take no chances and boarded the Zanzibar, although it was still several hours before sailing time.
The youths were shown to their stateroom, which went somewhat beyond their expectations, it being large and well appointed.
“Maybe this old boat doesn’t look very well on the outside, but she’s O.K. inside,” remarked Bob, as he left with his chum for the outer deck. “Couldn’t ask for much better.”