103.

   The sun was low on the horizon when we reached the ship. My flights of fancy had come to earth. The wind came up making boarding from the much smaller tug dicey. It edged up to a gangway already lowered in place. I could see lights on the ship but no crew.
   “She’s a good ship with a good crew! We’re lucky to be sailing on her!”, shouted Conrad over the sound of the waves slapping on the ship. “Come on, let’s board!” He threw his legs over the tug’s railing and landed on the platform at the base of the gangway. He turned and looked back at us. “Come on! Let’s go!”, he commanded impatiently.
   The dogs and I lowered ourselves gingerly on to the platform as it rose and fell with the waves. Conrad stomped up the gangway. We followed him, clutching at the wet ropes and slipping on the lurching planks. The steamer swaying above us was part menace, part temptress. I could feel my heart pounding. My eyes were wide open. There was a broad smile on my face.
   “This ship is right out of a movie!”, marveled Pat.
   “I better not get seasick.”, said Nanette.
   At the top of the gangway, Conrad turned and offered his hand. He pulled me up and close to his chest.    “Oliver, the first thing we have to do is go forward.” He smiled broadly, spun on his heels and marched away. 
   We followed him like awestruck tourists.