half past eight
Breakfast was served about an hour later . The fire warmed the boys , and the coffee and food did likewise . After they had finished their breakfast they were in great good humor . At half past eight , there still being no signs of life on board the houseboat , Billy declared that he was going out in the launch to see if he could n't stir up something . All hands piled into the launch . It was a matter of only a few moments to run to the houseboat . The boys circled the scow slowly , talking loudly .