In the mean time what would become of the raft lost through his carelessness and self-conceit?
Decidedly all this must be prevented if possible; and though the boy would have scorned to tell a lie even to save his life, he determined to tell as little of the truth as would be necessary to answer the questions that he knew would shortly be put to him.
While Winn was puzzling over this situation, and trying to frame a plausible story that would account for his presence on the tow-head without overstepping the bounds of truth, the door of the engine-room opened, and Cap'n Cod stumped in.

He brought an armful of dry clothing, and was beaming with the satisfaction that he always felt when engaged in helping any one out of trouble.
"Well, my muddy young friend," he exclaimed, good-naturedly, "how are you getting on?
Has Solon taken good care of you?
Here are some clothes that, I guess, you will have to make the best of until your own can be dried.

They probably won't come within a mile of fitting, but clothing does not make the man, you know, and we are not very critical as to appearances aboard the _Whatnot_.

By-the-way, my name is Fifield--Aleck Fifield.

What did you say yours was ?" "I don't think I said," answered the boy, slipping into a woollen shirt many sizes too large for him; "but it is Winn." "Winn, eh?
Good name.