I came down here expecting to stay with my
uncle until Spring. I was going to learn how to raise oranges. I
received word this morning that I would have to go back to my home in
San Francisco. My father needs me there, because of a change in his
business, and I've got to go."
"That's too bad!" exclaimed Rose.
"I guess you are thinking more of his motor boat than you are of
Charlie," said Nellie, with a laugh at her sister.
"I was not!" declared Rose, indignantly.
"Well, I've got to leave my boat here," went on Charlie.
"Leave it here!" repeated Olivia.
"Yes, and I'm looking for some one to take charge of it while I'm
gone."
"Take charge of it!" exclaimed Ned and Bob at once, while a joyous
look came into Jerry's eyes.
"What I mean," said Charlie, "is that I would hire it out. I think
that would be a better plan than merely to loan it to some one, for
there is a chance that it might be damaged, and would have to be
repaired, and, if I got a reasonable rent for it that would cover such
a mishap."
"Would you hire it to us?" asked Jerry anxiously.
"I was thinking of that," answered the owner of the Ripper. "I heard
from my friend, Rose," and he looked at the girl, "that you boys had
had some experience with motor boats. I had rather hire mine out to
some one who knew about machinery, than to persons who would have to
learn. So, if we can make some deal, you may have a chance to run this
boat. I've got to go to San Francisco in about a week.
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