of one coming within hail. I'll keep a watch and do what I can, of
course. In the meanwhile I hope you'll consider the cabin your own.
I'll be quite comfortable to-night with a blanket in the boat-house."

She was silent a moment, but when she turned her head, he had already
vanished into the cabin, where in a moment she heard the clatter of
the dishes he was washing. At this moment Hermia was sure that she
didn't dislike him at all. The clatter continued, mingled with the
sound of splashing water and a shrill piping as he whistled an air
from "Bohme." Hermia gazed out over the water a moment and
then her lips broke into a lovely smile. She made a quick resolution,
got up and followed him indoors.

He looked over his shoulder at her as she entered.

"Do you want anything?" he asked cheerfully.

"No--nothing--except to wash those dishes."


"Nonsense. I won't be a minute. It's nothing at all."

"Perhaps that's why I insist on doing it."

She had taken off her blouse, rolled up the sleeves of her waist with a
business-like air and elbowed him away from the dishpan unceremoniously.

"I'm going to wash them--wash them properly. You may wipe them if you
like."