Noddy looked rather blue.
"You are lucky fellows—off for more adventures and fun," he said, "while I just stick around."
"Nonsense, you've got your business in New York to attend to, and, as for adventures, I've had plenty of them for a time, haven't you, Billy?"
"A jugful," declared Raynor. "Enough to last me for the rest of my life-time, and, anyhow, life at sea is mostly hard work."
"That's what makes it worth living," said Jack. "I'll be glad to get down to work again after our long holiday."
"And I really believe I will, too," said Billy; "and on a crack liner like the Columbia we may be able to make our marks."
"I hope we will. I mean to work mighty hard, anyhow," said the young wireless man, "but hark, there goes the bell for supper. Hurry up, fellows, I'll race you to the house."
The next day was devoted to saying good-by to the scenes and the people who had helped make up a happy vacation for the lads. Noddy, it was decided, would stay on with Captain Toby for the present, as his presence was not required in New York.
Of course the lads visited Captain Simms. He told them that his holiday also was almost over. The naval code was nearly completed, and he must get back to Washington within a week or so.
"Well, here's to our next meeting," he said, as he heartily clasped the hands of both lads in farewell.