When they reach the quay a breeze is blowing, but not strong enough to cause any uneasiness.
The party place their luggage in one boat.
Then comes a pretty piece of by-play that really reflects credit upon the engineering skill of the soldier, for it is his hand that pulls the strings.
Lady Ruth steps into one boat. One of the men having stopped John to ask him something, the colonel is given a chance to occupy the same boat, and, when Doctor Chicago arrives, he is told by the boatman that this craft having two passengers, and being smaller than the other, can carry no more.
Sir Lionel as they push off sings out to him, pleasantly:
"A Roland for an Oliver, Chicago."
John smothers his chagrin and enters the other, boat with Aunt Gwen and the professor. After all, it is only for a brief time, and surely he can afford to give Sir Lionel that pleasure.
Thus they set out.
Lady Ruth appears to be in good spirits, for they can hear her voice in song, blending with the bass of the baronet, floating over the waves, which are really rougher than any of them had anticipated.
The lights of the steamer can be seen, and they head for her.