"Yes," he went on, "both Mr. Snelling and I are interested in boats in
our way."
"It's a fine job," Willie observed evasively.
"Yes, it is. Not only is shipbuilding a fascinating occupation but it
is a patriotic one as well, for I believe the resurrection of our
merchant marine to be one of the most important duties of our nation.
Everything that works toward that end is a service to the country, in
my estimation."
"You're right, sir," was the rejoinder. "I'm terrible fond of ships
myself. They're human as people an' as different. You can turn 'em
out from the same model, but no two of 'em will ever be alike. I've
got a little yawl down on the shore I wouldn't take a thousand dollars
for. She's knowin' as if she was alive. I can tell to an inch how
much sail she'll stand an' how much water she'll draw. She answers to
the tiller quick as a child to your voice, too--quicker'n most
children. I've had her for years, an' smooth weather or foul she ain't
never gone back on me. Folks disappoint you sometimes; but a boat
never does.
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