"God be praised! This gives me joy," was the fervent response.
"And, Mr. Bernard, they've had pretty heavy punishment. I really hope you'll call it enough and forgive 'em. They are ashamed and sorry, I know. I'll answer for that."
The teacher's eyes were moist, and he took off his glasses to wipe them as he said, "May I go on board with you?"
"That's just what I want. I told those chaps you'd forgive 'em; but they said I didn't know you, and you'd never trust 'em again. You may, though. I'll answer for 'em you may--both on 'em. You'll never catch either of 'em in a lie again."
"Are the boys expecting me?"
"Bless you, sir, no; they don't know no more about it than your boys up yonder asleep in their tents. No, it's all a surprise;" and the old captain chuckled with delight.
"Say nothing about this, Jonas, and keep quiet, so the boys will sleep till we get our arrangements made."
"All right, sir; I've got my fish to catch yet," answered Jonas, baiting his hook.
"Never mind those fish--that's slow work. I'll send my man ashore with mackerel and cod enough to last you a while."
The teacher seated himself in the boat, and Captain Dare pulled quickly back to the vessel.