“Maybe, if you’re a good boy something will happen about the time of your birthday,” hinted Mrs. Remington.
“Oh, mother! I’d be willing to go without my allowance and add all my Christmas money to it, too, if I could have that launch now!” exclaimed Billy, eagerly.
“Well, never mind now, but try to behave and earn the launch that way,” advised his mother.
Arrived at Isola Bella the mariners found Uncle Bill making a great to-do about moving the heavy ice-cream freezer over on the wharf. Aunt Miriam and two lady visitors stood giving him superfluous advice as he did things his own way, after all.
After the freezer was safely shipped, a large hamper of goodies followed, and then the ladies were assisted aboard.
“Hurrah! We’re off at last!” cried Uncle Bill, as they rounded the south end of Isola Bella.
“And I can see the Orion with all on board! Blow the whistle, Billy, and salute them,” added Mrs. Remington.
An answering whistle came from Uncle Tom, and soon his launch carrying the second party slipped along after the Zeus on its way to Spruce Island.
“How about a chantey!” shouted Uncle Bill, for he had been very quiet for at least two minutes.
Without a second’s delay, Billy started up and the rest joined in the song.