"Fine business," said the delighted superintendent. "And now let me introduce again Captain Dwight Austin, skipper of the good ship Nemo, the first salvage ship turned out at the Bridgeford Yard. If you boys are in earnest, report to Captain Austin to-morrow morning at 7.30 at the Emerson wharf. I need not add that I am very well pleased with your decision and wish you all kinds of luck in your work for the summer. I don't think you will regret what you have done."
In high glee the three youths piled out of the office after affixing their names to the roster of the ship's crew.
As they bolted down the stairs and turned into the hallway leading to the exit Jay ran full into a strapping big fellow of brawny build, with shaggy eyebrows and scowling face, who was shuffling along in an unsteady gait.
"I beg your pardon, sir, I didn't see you coming," said Jay apologetically, as he stepped aside.
"What's the matter with you, stupid? Can't you watch where you're goin'?" was the gruff answer.
Jay insisted it had all been an accident.
"Keep out of my way hereafter," bellowed the other. "If you don't—this for you." And he pushed Jay full in the face with his flat dirty hand.
In an instant Jay's blood was boiling.
"I apologized to you, but I guess what you need is a lesson in politeness," was his cool retort as he stepped up close and surveyed the bully in the eye.
For answer the obstreperous rowdy made a pass for the Brighton boy's face with clenched fist.