"When did you leave New York, Captain Bounce?" asked Leopold.
"Three days ago. We had a fine run till we went into the fog yesterday morning. The wind was contrary, and in beating my way up I lost my reckoning. I have been dodging the breakers for twenty-four hours. I was afraid of a north-easterly storm; and if I had had no women on board, I should have come about, and run out to sea. As it was, I had to feel my way along."
"You are all right now," added Leopold, as he saw the owner and passengers coming up the companion-way.
"You have brought us in—have you, Leopold?" said Mr. Hamilton.
"Yes, sir. You are in the river, off Rockhaven, though you can't see anything," replied the young pilot.
"You have done well; and you are fully entitled to your pilotage," added the ex-member of Congress.
"I don't pretend to be a pilot for pay," protested Leopold.
"You have brought the yacht into port, and here is your fee," said Mr. Hamilton, putting some bank bills into his hand.
"No, sir!" exclaimed Leopold; "I don't want any money for what I have done. I am not entitled to any pilot's fees."
"Yes you are, just as much entitled to them as though you had a warrant or a branch. Now go to your hotel, and have everything ready for us as quick as you can. We are wet and cold, and we want good fires," continued Mr. Hamilton.