Frank and Charles protested against this railing at first, and maintained that there was not the least danger of their falling into the water; but Captain Sedley, knowing how prone boys are to scuffle and be careless, insisted upon having it.
The boys watched the progress the carpenters made in erecting the boat-house with the deepest interest, and Uncle Ben got almost out of patience answering the innumerable questions they put to him in regard to what everything was for. Morning, noon, and night they visited the building, and longed for Saturday afternoon, when they were to make another excursion in the Zephyr.
Poor Tony's misfortunes had excited all their sympathy, and divided their attention with the club. Some of them ventured to doubt the innocence of their companion, though a large majority felt quite sure he would be cleared at the trial.
Early on Saturday afternoon, Frank and Charles met at the boat-house.
"Will Tony come, do you think?" asked the latter.
"I told him this morning to be sure and come. I hope he will."
"Do you think your father will let him continue to belong to the club?" asked Charles.
"Certainly he will! Why not?"
"Only think of it—taken up for stealing!"
"Do you believe he is guilty?"