"May we come aboard?" asked Billy.
"Not yet, boys," returned Miss Elting in reply. "Our house is not set to rights for company. Come over later. We should be pleased to have you."
"Say. It's hot out here. Suppose we tow you in nearer to our camp. There will be more shade there too," suggested Larry.
"Thank you. That will be nice."
"Come over and have luncheon with us to-day noon," urged George.
Miss Elting also accepted this invitation, rather to the surprise of the boys. Billy, without loss of time, fastened a line to the houseboat attaching the other end of the line to a cleat on the after deck of the launch. In the meantime Larry had jumped aboard the "Red Rover" and hauled in the anchor for them. The launch then towed the scow up to the camp of the tramps. Miss Elting motioned for them to draw the boat a little beyond the camp, which was done.
"Cast off," shouted Captain Harriet.
Jane slipped the tow line then let the anchor go over with a splash.
"You girls work just like regular sailors," declared Larry admiringly.
"We will see you at noon," called Miss Elting. "You needn't mind to come out for us. We have our rowboat."