own. The island is noted for its beautiful climate, which makes it a
pleasant resort for summer tourists.

At sunrise on the following morning, the ship leading the squadron was
approaching the islands which cover the entrance to the harbor of
Stockholm. Pilots were taken by the several vessels, and the fleet
entered the archipelago, through which it was to sail for thirty
miles. At first the openings were very wide, and not much of the shore
could be seen; but soon the distances grew less, and the shores were
studded with villages and fine residences. The little steamers--some
of them not so large as the ship's first cutter--began to appear; and
at eight o'clock the Young America let go her anchor between Staden
and Skeppsholm, off the quay near the palace, which was crowded with
steamers.

"Here we are, Laybold," said Scott, when the sails had been furled,
and every rope coiled away in its place.

"That's so. What's that big building on the shore?"

"That's the Slottenboggin," laughed Scott.

"No, you don't! You can't sell me again with your boggins."

"I'll bet half a pint of salt water it is the king's palace."

"Very likely it is; and here is a fine building on the other side."

"That must be the Wobbleboggin."

"No, it isn't."

"Perhaps it isn't; but twig these little steamers," added Scott,
pointing to one of the snorting miniature boats that plied across the
arm of the sea opposite the quay. "The pilot and engineer, and a boy
to take the fares, seem to be the officers, crew, and all hands."

"And in some of them all hands are boys."

The boats seemed to contain nothing but the engine and boiler, which
were in a compact mass, without covering. All around them were seats.
Forward of the engine was a little steering-wheel, hardly more than a
foot in diameter, at which the pilot--often a boy--was seated.

"I want a complete view of the city," said Captain Lincoln, at this
moment coming into the waist with the surgeon and Norwood. "I think I
can get it from the main cross-trees."

"I am too stiff to go aloft," replied Dr. Winstock; "but I commend
your plan."

"I'm with you," added Norwood, as he followed the captain up the main
rigging.

From this lofty position on the cross-trees the two officers obtained
a good idea of the situation of the city. The three islands which form
the central portion of the city lay in the strait leading to the Maeler
Lake. The north and south suburbs were on each side