CHAPTER NINE
The trip home took them almost two months instead of the expected one. The journey also changed the lives of two of the crew, most dramatically.
They took the Happy Gal out for a shakedown cruise and stayed gone two days. Ellie proved to be an experienced sailor and delightful companion. Sandy was a bit put out when she had to give up her quarters, but Ellie's warmth and good humor soon won her a spot in the child's heart. Steve also noted that Ellie seemed to have adopted Sandy as a young protege. He was convinced that the three of them would have an enjoyable cruise home.
The boat was stocked with all the provisions they would need, and an ample supply of spare parts and equipment were securely stowed away on the day before they set sail. Ellie had moved aboard that after
