CHAPTER XVI
The Outboard Motor
It was midnight before the crew of the Spindrift turned in, but for once the regulation for "lights out" at ten was waived. Findlay and Hayes had to be told a detailed account of Desmond's adventure; while Desmond had to hear the story of the fruitless search for the missing Patrol Leader. The belated supper was a protracted affair, and yarning seemed to be going on indefinitely, until the Scoutmaster reminded his youthful crew that, all being well, the homeward voyage was to be commenced within the next twelve hours.
All hands were up and about by eight the next morning. There was still much to be done, overhauling gear, taking in provisions, and making all snug. After breakfast they paid a visit to the Spanker. Truscott and Wilde had both received medical attention, and the doctor had inquired who had dressed their injuries.
"He said it was a splendid job," declared Truscott. "They call sailors 'handy men', but, by Jove! I think Sea Scouts run them pretty close."
"When are you putting to sea again?" asked Mr. Graham.
"We don't know exactly," was the reply. "We've got to get fit, and we've sent for some chums of ours to give us a hand with the yacht. Fortunately, we are not tied to time."
"Let's hope you'll have better luck for your next venture," observed the Scoutmaster.
"We might have had a jolly sight worse luck than we did," rejoined Wilde, "if it hadn't been for Desmond. The average lad would have been scared stiff if he'd found himself on a strange yacht in the Bristol Channel with a couple of crocked-up blighters like us."
"Hurry up, if you want to pass through the lock!" shouted a peremptory voice.