Alan was making his way aft, when Peter stopped him.
"Here, you blighter!" exclaimed the Patrol Leader. "What are you up to?"
Hepburn explained.
"Not the ensign-staff this time," protested Peter.
"Why not?" demanded the mystified Alan.
"'Cause, you would-be smuggler," replied Stratton, "we've 'come foreign'. Ensign at the masthead, please. That's the recognized rule."
The Sea Scouts had not finished breakfast when a boat came alongside with the representative of His Majesty's Excise and Customs.
The official smiled when he boarded the Olivette. He knew her and her crew well, but duty is duty all the world over.
"Anything to declare?" he inquired. "Tobacco, tea, spirits, eau de Cologne, lace, and what not?"
"I have spirits," announced the irrepressible Hepburn. "High spirits—so I'm told."