CHAPTER XXIII.
"Well, thank goodness, we are through, and I can get out for a little air once more."
Such was the remark made by Boyton when the preceding chapter, which completed the history of his adventures, was finished.
He little relished the confinement to which he had been subjected, while getting into shape such a mass of notes and memoranda. Several times he was on the point of abandoning the work altogether.
"One thing that gratifies me," he added: "I'll never have to talk about myself or my voyages again. The book tells the story."
Though before the public so many years, Paul Boyton is still in the prime of life. It is possible that he will not attempt any dangerous voyages again; still the ruling passion is strong. He may frequently be seen poring over maps and charts of distant rivers and often discusses the probability of adventure on them.
During the summer he is almost daily in the water with his company of aquatic experts.
In the winter season, he devotes the greater part of his time to inventing and perfecting new devices in the way of water amusements.
In the large basement of his home he has fitted up one of the most curious work-shops in the world. Water-shoes, sails, marine bicycles, torpedo and submarine boats, paddles, etc., lie around in bewildering confusion to a person unaccustomed to aquatic traps. But Boyton knows where each belongs, and insists on its being kept there, his early sailor training making him a martinet of order.
He has never lost his old love of animals. Adjoining the work-shop, is a large tank for the accommodation of his water pets. This is also a favorite spot for his three little boys who often take a plunge. Sometimes the first mate of the home is compelled to make a clearance, when the pets become numerous and the youngsters bathe too frequent.