Van Dusen explained to the others how he had extended an invitation to Ichabod to make use of the yacht for his honeymoon-trip. Ethel was astonished and delighted to learn of the old fisherman's romance and his intended bridal on the morrow.
"But, do you know," she exclaimed with a smile, to Captain Jones, "I supposed, of course, you were married, and had grandchildren?"
"Not me!" the old man answered, unabashed. "But I do aim to!"
Van Dusen further explained that the only thing now wanting was the consent of the bride herself to the plans. He then spoke again of the reward to be paid to Ichabod. Roy declared that this should be made out immediately. Once again, Captain Icky protested against the payment, but without much heart in his objections, and finally, after mumbling something as to the time lost from his fishing, he consented to receive the amount. But on a condition. He stipulated that the check should be made out to Sarah Porter, and that in the left-hand corner there should be written the words:
"In lieu of all other pre-nuptals."
The fisherman gave it as his positive opinion that this would clinch the matter for the following day.
"Anyhow," he added grimly, "if it don't, I'll be dogged if she gits it!"
When the yacht reached Beaufort, the party went ashore, for it had been decided that Ethel should be cared for at the Inlet Hotel, where, if need be, she might prove of service in persuading Sarah into meeting the ardent Ichabod's wishes.
The hostess greeted the girl warmly, and fussed over her with a maternal solicitude that promised well for the fisherman's hopes in the matter of grandchildren. Then, when she had seen her guest comfortably installed, Sarah returned to the porch, where Ichabod, armed with the check, was anxiously awaiting her.
"Oh," she exclaimed tenderly, "I'm so glad you have returned safely! I've really worried about you. I was afraid that dreadful man might do something terrible if you came upon him unexpectedly."