d cruiser, can be greatly increased."

Siemens led Ingram to see the gigantic cranks, and propeller shafts. Each
of the several cranks is twenty-six inches in diameter and weighs 110
tons; the shafts made of toughest steel are each twenty-four inches in
diameter, and each weighs over 150 tons. The propellers are made of steel
and bronze, and each of the six blades of the two screws weighs eight
tons. It was now past two o'clock and George thanked Mr. Siemens and said
he should be pleased to examine further his department when at sea. It
was past three o'clock when George turned off his gas at the hotel.

At eight o'clock the next morning the Harrises met promptly at breakfast.
Promptness was one of Reuben Harris's virtues, and fortunately all his
party were agreed as to its absolute necessity, especially when several
journey together, if the happiness of all is considered.

"George's eyes look like burnt holes," whispered May to Gertrude.

Overhearing his sister's remark, George added: "Yes, May, and they feel
worse after my two hours last night in the stokehole of the 'Campania.'"

"We thought after our long railway ride and the concert yesterday, that
you would gladly welcome a little sleep," said Gertrude.

"I did sleep four hours, Gertrude, but my owl-visit to the steamer was
highly instructive, and when we get to sea, you all will be delighted to
help me complete the study of the marine engines on the 'Campania.'"

CHAPTER XV

A SAFE PASSAGE AND A HAPPY REUNION

Gertrude and May never knew what happiness was before. One maiden had her
lover, and the heart of the other was pledged to music. George too was
happy in Gertrude's happiness and joyous in his own thoughts that perhaps
he had already entered upon his life work, the development of plans which
would bless humanity. Colonel Harris's chief joy was that he had earned a
rest, was soon to see the absent members of his family, and to behold the
work of men in Europe.

People crowded the gangway, the same as on a previous occasion when duty
forced him suddenly to leave the "Majestic." It was almost two o'clock;
visitors were no longer admitted to the steamer, except messengers with
belated telegrams, mail, packages, and flowers for the travelers. On
the bridge of the "Campania" stood the uniformed captain and junior
officers. The chief officer was at the bow, the second officer aft. The
captain, notified that all was ready, gave the command, "Let go