The Zephyrs were laying on their oars, waiting for the Butterfly when she backed out of the boat house.
"You are late, Tony, which is rather odd for you," said Frank.
"We had a little business to attend to, which detained us," replied Tony; "and while we are here we may as well tell you about it. We have voted our money away."
"For the fleet?"
"No; we have given that up."
"Indeed! Given it up?" exclaimed Frank, not a little surprised at this declaration.
"Fact, Frank!"
"Something new has turned up, then?"
"Let us lash boats to keep us from drifting apart, and I will tell you all about it."
The two boats were fastened together fore and aft, and Tony proceeded to tell the story of Little Paul's father. He spoke loud enough for all the Zephyrs to hear him, and as his heart warmed towards Mr. Munroe in his misfortunes, his eyes dilated, and his gestures were as apt and energetic as though he had been an orator all his lifetime.