There was some talk about turbine engines, direct
application of steam, and the absence of pistons, rods, and
cranks,--all of which was beyond me, for I was familiar only with
sailing craft; but I did understand the last words of the engineer.
"Four thousand horse-power and forty-five miles an hour, though you
wouldn't think it," he concluded proudly.
"Say it again, man! Say it again!" Charley exclaimed in an excited
voice.
"Four thousand horse-power and forty-five miles an hour," the
engineer repeated, grinning good-naturedly.
"Where's the owner?" was Charley's next question. "Is there any
way I can speak to him?"
The engineer shook his head. "No, I'm afraid not. He's asleep,
you see."
At that moment a young man in blue uniform came on deck farther aft
and stood regarding the sunrise.
"There he is, that's him, that's Mr. Tate," said the engineer.
Charley walked aft and spoke to him, and while he talked earnestly
the young man listened with an amused expression on his face.
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