CHAPTER V.
ON BOARD OF THE YACHT "What a glorious day for the trip!" "We are going to turn real sailors, aren't we ?" "Can't I help pull up a sail or something, Tom ?" Such were the remarks of Dora, Nellie, and Grace as they boarded the Old Glory early on Monday morning.
The boys and Captain Jerry were there to receive them, having arrived an hour before, to see that all the provisions were stowed away, and that the craft was in prime condition for sailing.

By a curious combination of circumstances Bob Sutter had ordered far more provisions than were necessary for such a short trip, but Captain Jerry had found a place for everything, remarking that they might come in useful after all, but never dreaming how useful, as later events were to prove.
Mrs.Stanhope had come down in a carriage to see them off.

She kissed all of the girls an affectionate good-by.
"Have a good time," she said.

"And be sure and come back safe and sound." "Don't ye worry but what I'll bring 'em back safe enough, ma'am," said Captain Jerry, as he tipped his cap respectfully.
When the girls were safe on board, the boys waved an adieu to Mrs.
Stanhope.

Then they ranged up in a row in front of old Jerry and each touched his forelock and gave a hitch to his trowser leg.
"Ready for orders, cap'n," they said, in unison, having practiced this little by-play in secret.
"Wh--what ?" stammered Captain Jerry, gazing at them in bewilderment.
"Ready for orders, sir," they said.
"Shall we shake out the mainsail ?" asked Dick.
"Shall I hoist the jib ?" came from Tom.
"Can I set the topsail, captain ?" put in Sam.
"Well, by the son o' Neptune!" gasped Captain Jerry.