“Do you mean that languishin’ creeter with an eyeglass and spindle legs? What are such fellows made for?”
“Rather for ornament than use,” answered Harry, gravely.
The Yankee burst into a loud guffaw, and regarded Harry’s remark a capital joke.
The voyage was to be a long one, and after a couple of weeks they all had their sea legs on. All had become acquainted, and settled down to a regular routine. But the time dragged, and as there were no morning or evening papers, something seemed necessary to break the monotony.
“Harry,” said the professor, “I have an idea.”
“What is it, professor?”
“Suppose we give an exhibition for the benefit of our fellow passengers and the crew.”
“I am ready to do my part.”
“Then I will speak to the captain.”
The result was that on the first quiet day Professor Hemenway and his assistant gave a matinee performance on the deck of the Nantucket, at which all who could possibly be spared were present. To some of the sailors it was a novelty, and the magician’s tricks actually inspired some with the feeling that he was possessed of supernatural powers.