hats had the name of the boats on them, with some
appropriate device, and generally a wreath of flowers worked on them.
Nothing, indeed, could well exceed the neatness and elegance of the
boating dresses; so Ernest and his friends agreed.

The crews now quickly took their seats in the boats. They went about
the business easily, as if they were going to take part in a naval
review rather than in any serious engagement. The boats, as they were
ready, began to leave the Brocas, the lowest boat going first, and
laying off in the stream till all were ready. Then a signal was given,
and away they started, the highest boat leading, and the rest in order
taking one turn up and down before the Brocas, that the spectators might
have the opportunity of admiring them.

At about three miles from Eton is a place called Surly. Here a repast,
on tables spread in the open air, was prepared for them; and as the
boats' crews were expected to be not a little thirsty after their long
pull, some bottles of champagne were provided for each boat. After the
boats had been sufficiently admired by the spectators on the Brocas, off
they started, as fast as the pullers could bend to their oars, with long
and sweeping strokes towards Surly, accompanied by a boat with a band of
music playing enlivening strains.

Jack Bouldon, though he could not pull himself, had secured a boat for
his father and his friend, and a crew to man her; and as soon as the
boats had gone off, they all jumped into her, that they might follow and
see the fun. Each boat had her sitter jealously guarding the
exhilarating beverage.

They were not long in reaching Surly. The crews landed, and lost no
time in seating themselves to enjoy their cold collation, or in
quenching their thirst in the hissing, popping, sparkling champagne.
The viands were quickly despatched and thoroughly relished, aided by
music and champagne, and good appetites; and then toast after toast
succeeded in rapid succession, all drunk with the greatest
enthusiasm,--"The Queen," and "Floreat Etona," however, calling forth
even a still greater amount of applause. Capacious as champagne bottles
may be, their contents will come to an end; and this consummation having
occurred, once more the crews embarked in their boats and commenced
their homeward voyage, music, fun, and laughter enlivening the way.

It was dusk as they approached Eton, where, in the centre of the river,
a vessel was moored, whence,