Juanita and her girl friend were awaiting them when they reached the house, and the cordial welcome the two lads received made them very happy.
Shortly before tea, Mr. Windom arrived from business. His greeting of Clif was characteristic of the man whose sole hobby in life was the collection of rare and valuable pearls.
“I am proud to know you, sir,” he exclaimed, wringing the lad’s hand. “Proud to know that you are a guest under my roof to-night. The whole city—the whole world, in fact—is ringing with your name. It was great, it was magnificent! It was a deed worthy of an American.
“But you are wanted at the palace, my dear boy. The king has sent messenger after messenger to the Monongahela in search of you. The old ship is fairly surrounded by steamers and tugs and small craft bearing bands of music and visitors. They call for you in vain. How can you remain in my poor house while the whole city is eager to see you.”
“If it is all the same to you, sir,” laughed Clif, “I’d much rather remain here.”
He glanced slyly at Juanita, and was gratified to see a soft, rosy flush overspread her fair cheeks.
Kindly-hearted Mr. Windom seemed greatly pleased at Faraday’s diplomatic answer, and carried both boys off to look at his pearls, which were kept in a small iron box in one corner of his private room.
After duly praising the really magnificent collection, some of which were almost priceless in value, Clif and Joy returned to the girls.
Three very pleasant hours were spent after tea, then the stern rules of naval discipline which had decreed that the ship must be gained before midnight, caused the two cadets to announce their departure.