CHAPTER XV

CAUGHT IN THE FOG

"WELL," replied Charlie as he sent the Ripper around in a big circle,
"you see it's this way. 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