iged to hold his cargo in port until he had a purchaser, as
was the usual rule in the past, he would be wasting much precious
time. By this method he can set forth the moment the vessel is loaded
and during his voyage let his managers search for buyers. In all
probability by the time he nears New England harbors his wares will be
sold and orders sent him where to deposit them."

"That's a neat little scheme!" observed Walter.

But poor Jerry was too much overcome by the marvels he had witnessed
to comment on this added miracle. All he could do was to reiterate
feebly: "It beats me--hanged if it don't!"

CHAPTER XVII

THE LAWS OF THE AIR

Morning found Mr. Crowninshield in no more tractable a mood. Even
before Bob could reach his post at the wireless station and adjust his
double head receiver to his ears his employer came briskly across the
grass with his after-breakfast cigar between his lips.

"Well," began he, when he was within calling distance, "any news yet?"

"I'm afraid not yet, sir. It is still early."

The great man took out his watch.

"Isn't it almost time for O'Connel to signal?"

"It is nearing the time."

"I wonder if he will have any tidings for us?"

"I certainly hope so." The wish was uttered with deep sincerity. A
speculation was forming in the young operator's mind as to how he was
going to pacify the irascible gentleman before him should no tidings
come.

"Since I'm here I believe I'll drop down and wait until you get into
touch with the _Siren_."

"It is liable to be quite a little while. Sometimes there is delay."

"No matter. I've nothing especial to do to-day."

With sinking heart Bob turned away and began to fuss with his oil can
and a bit of cotton waste.

"As you will, sir," was all he said.

"You think, don't you, that we will hear something definite this
morning?"

"There is no telling."

"No, of course not. Nevertheless O'Connel can at least let us know
whether Lola is worse or better."

"Yes, we ought to ascertain that."

"He wouldn't be such an idiot as to stand by and see the dog die,
would he?"

"One never can predict just what another person will do. However, I
feel sure you can trust O'Connel. I never knew him to bungle anything
yet."

With that comfort Mr. Crowninshield was obliged to content himself.

Notwithstanding it, however, he began to pace nervously back and
forth, and every time there was a sound in the room he would whisk
about wi