"They are not liable to duty," rejoined the Exciseman. "Well, I may as well have a look round."
He was a man who did his work thoroughly. The Olivette was searched from stem to stern. Every locker was examined, the floor boards lifted, and even the skirting tapped in case there might be contraband hidden between the timbers.
"Like a game of hunt the slipper," remarked Roche.
"Aye," replied the man, "and it's my game to hunt slippery ones. I've caught a few in my time, but they weren't Sea Scouts. I'll give you your clearance papers, Mr. Armitage."
The interrupted breakfast dispatched, and the plates and cups washed up and stowed, the Olivette resumed her homeward run.
"I don't know about Alan's high spirits," remarked Peter. "Mine are rather low. It's my last run in the old Olivette, I'm afraid."
"You never know your luck," said Roche. "And you're going abroad again, you lucky blighter. I hope I'll make as good a Patrol Leader as you, old man."
"Without a doubt of it, you will," declared Peter earnestly. "Starboard.... at that.... Stand by for'ard and pick up the buoy.... I say, there's Bruin."
Sure enough Peter's pet and the Olivette's mascot was sitting on the edge of the quay.
The moment the Olivette picked up her moorings, Bruin took to the water and swam off. Willing hands hauled the dog on board, where he inconsiderately showed his delight by shaking his shaggy coat and liberally besprinkling the crew.