The day was bright and pleasant, and the crowd of visitors was constantly increasing. The élite of the city had evidently selected this day on which to inspect the “Yankee” practice ship, as the visitors were altogether of the better class.
The broad spar deck was thronged with handsome girls and well-dressed gentlemen. The gay European costumes, interspersed here and there with the attractive uniforms of the officers and the natty dress of the cadets, formed an inspiring scene.
A band, made up of naval cadets, discoursed sweet music from a tastefully decorated stand on the quarter-deck. From the spanker-gaff floated the Stars and Stripes resplendent in new bunting.
While Clif was reading the inscription on the card given him, Nanny hurriedly approached him, and said, in a stage whisper:
“She’s coming, Clif. She’s in a boat alongside.”
“Who? Not——”
“Yes. It’s the girl. It’s Miss Juanita. She’s got another girl with her.”
“Thanks,” replied Clif, hurriedly. Turning to J. Chesire-Cheshire Cate, he added:
“Please excuse me, sir. I wish to meet a friend.”
“Certainly, by all means, deah boy,” drawled the Englishman, waving his monocle. “I am deuced obliged to you for your—aw!—kindness, don’t ye know. Pray consider my rooms ashore your—aw—home. Glad to see you again, don’t ye know.”