"We will."
"And obey the orders of Captain Gordon in all things, whether you are on board or on shore?"
"We will," replied all the boys at once.
"Very well; I shall trust you. If I return soon enough to join you at Portsmouth, I shall do so. Good-by, now, and a pleasant cruise to you;" and Captain Littleton went over the side.
"Good-by, sir," replied the crew.
"That's first rate—isn't it?" whispered Tom Nettle, as the captain departed. "I am glad he isn't going."
"So am I," replied Frank Thompson.
"We shall not have him watching us all the time. Let me tell you, there is fun ahead now," added Thomas.
Captain Briskett, who was to be first officer of the Flyaway, as well as pilot, summoned them to the windlass to heave up the anchor; and in a few minutes the yacht was standing down the harbor under all sail. The Teneans gave three rousing cheers, and then distributed themselves in various parts of the deck to enjoy the exciting scene.