When Nelson reached the wheel the boat’s head was pointed straight for Boston. But Dan had heard him coming, and was now turning hard on the wheel.
“Where do you think you’re going?” demanded Nelson.
“Who, me? Why, Gloucester.”
“Well, what——”
“Oh, I’ve just been giving myself a few lessons in steering,” answered Dan calmly. “I’ve been turning her around, you know. She works fine, doesn’t she?”
“You crazy idiot!” laughed Nelson. “What do you suppose those folks in that sloop over there think of us?”
“Oh, they probably think we’re chasing our tail,” answered Dan with a grin. “Have you eaten all that lunch?”
“No, but we will if you don’t hold her steady.”
“That’s all right, Nel; I’ll keep her as straight as a die; honest Injun!”
The others returned to the table and finished their repast. Then Nelson relieved Dan, and the latter went below in turn. Later he and Tom washed up the few dishes, and when they came up on deck found the Vagabond opposite Marblehead Light. It was after one o’clock and considerably warmer, as the breeze had lessened somewhat. Nelson and Bob had already shed their sweaters, and the others followed suit. Nelson was pointing out the sights.