They reached the shore. Their baggage was placed on a large hand-cart, and they passed through the gateway of the Custom-house. A polite official, who spoke English, made a brief survey of their trunks; and, on their assurance that no dutiable goods were within, he did not delay them any further. The Japanese duties are only five per cent. on the value of the goods, and, consequently, a traveller could not perpetrate much fraud upon the revenue, even if he were disposed to do so.
"Here you are in Japan," said the Doctor, as they passed through the gate.
"Yes, here we are," Frank replied; "let's give three cheers for Japan."
"Agreed," answered Fred, "and here we go—Hip! hip! hurrah!"
The boys swung their hats and gave the three cheers.
"And three more for friends at home!" Fred added.
"Certainly," Frank responded. "Here we go again;" and there was another "Hip! hip! hurrah!"
"And a cheer from you, Frank," remarked the Doctor, "for somebody we saw at the railway station."
Frank gave another swing of his hat and another cheer. The Doctor and Fred united their voices to his, and with a hearty shout all around, they concluded the ceremony connected with their arrival in Japan.