"By no means, Captain Lawry," replied the rich man, laughing. "If the ladies succeed in overcoming their terror of steamboats, I suppose I can charter the boat for our party when we wish to use her."
"She's at your service always, sir," replied Lawry.
"Oh, I shall take her on the same terms that others do. When I use her, I shall pay you."
"That wouldn't be fair, sir. I couldn't take any money from you for the use of her," added Lawry, blushing.
"We will not talk about that now. When she is in condition for use, we will consider these questions. How did you find her this morning?" asked Mr. Sherwood, with a mischievous twinkle in his eye.
"We found the water all pumped out of her; and we didn't know what to make of it," answered Lawry.
All the visitors burst out laughing, and heartily enjoyed the astonishment and confusion of the young pilot.
"I don't understand it," exclaimed Lawry.
"The fairies, knowing what a good boy you are, Lawry, must have pumped her out for you," said Miss Fanny.
"Perhaps they did."