The next morning dawned gloriously, and it was agreed that they should meet at Starhaven, the point where they were to get the boat, at ten o’clock.  As they had supposed, Dr. Rowlands gave a ready consent to the row, on condition of their being accompanied by the experienced sailor whom the boys called Jim.  The precaution was by no means unnecessary, for the various currents which ran round the island were violent at certain stages of the tide, and extremely dangerous for any who were not aware of their general course.

Feeling that the day would pass off very unpleasantly if any feeling of restraint remained between him and Montagu, Eric, by a strong effort, determined to “make up with him” before starting, and went into his study for that purpose after breakfast.  Directly he came in, Montagu jumped up and welcomed him cordially, and when, without any allusion to the past, the two shook hands with all warmth, and looked the old proud look into each other’s faces, they felt once more that their former affection was unimpaired, and that in heart they were real and loving friends.  Most keenly did they both enjoy the renewed intercourse, and they found endless subjects to talk about on their way to Starhaven, where the others were already assembled when they came.

With Jim’s assistance they shoved a boat into the water, and sprang into it in the highest spirits.  Just as they were pushing off they saw Wright and Vernon running down to the shore towards them, and they waited to see what they wanted.  “Couldn’t you take us with you?” asked Vernon, breathless with his run.

“I’m afraid not, Verny,” said Montagu; “the boat won’t hold more than six, will it, Jim?”

“No, sir, not safely.”

“Never mind, you shall have my place, Verny,” said Eric, as he saw his brother’s disappointed look.

“Then Wright shall take mine,” said Wildney.

“O dear no,” said Wright, “we wouldn’t turn you out for the world.  Vernon and I will take an immense walk down the coast instead, and will meet you here as we come back.”

“Well, good bye, then; off we go;” and with light hearts the boaters and the pedestrians parted.

Eric, Graham, Duncan, and Montagu took the first turn at the oars, while Wildney steered.  Graham’s “crabs,” and Wildney’s rather crooked steering, gave plenty of opportunity for chaff, and they were full of fun as the oar-blades splashed and sparkled in the waves.  Then they made Jim sing them some of his old sailor songs as they rowed, and joined vigorously in the choruses.  They had arranged to make straight for St. Catherine’s Head, and land somewhere near it to choose a place for their pic-nic.  It took them nearly two hours to get there, as they rowed leisurely, and enjoyed the luxury of the vernal air.  It was one of the sunniest days of early spring; the air was pure and delicious, and the calm sea breeze, just strong enough to make the sea flame and glister in the warm sunlight, was