Indeed, it was not easy for any of them, but perhaps Walter and Jack found it less irksome, for they were very busy preparing for the cruise.
Plans were made to leave some of their baggage at the hotel in San Juan, and the rest would be taken with them. A goodly supply of provisions and stores were put aboard, and a complete account of the events leading up to the cruise, including the story of the missing Ralcanto papers, was written out and forwarded to Mr. Robinson's lawyers in New York.
"That's in case of accident to us," said Jack.
"Oh, don't speak of accidents!" cried Cora.
The last arrangements were completed. Jack made final and guarded inquiries, concerning Ramo, but learned nothing. Then, one fine, sunny morning in December, the little party of motor girls and their friends, who had so often made motor boat trips on the lakes or streams of their own country, set off in the Tartar for a cruise on waters blue.
"All aboard!" cried Jack, with an assumption of gaiety he did not feel.
"Oh, I wonder what lies before us?" murmured Cora.
"Courage, Senorita! Perhaps—happiness," said Inez, softly.