The voice of Aldrich was again raised in anger. "I'd rather
drown!" he cried.

Lord Ivy responded with unexpected spirit.

"Well, then, drown! The water is warm and it's a pleasing death."

At that, with a bump, he fell in a heap at my feet.

"Easy, Kinney!" I shouted. "Don't swamp us!"

"I'll be careful!" he called, and the next instant hit my shoulders
and I shook him off on top of Lord Ivy.

"Get off my head!" shouted his lordship.

Kinney apologized to every one profusely. Lady Moya raised her
voice.

"For the last time, Phil," she called, "are you coming or are you
not?"

"Not with those swindlers, I'm not!" he shouted. "I think you two
are mad! I prefer to drown!"

There was an uncomfortable silence. My position was a difficult
one, and, not knowing what to say, I said nothing.

"If one must drown!" exclaimed Lady Moya briskly, "I can't see it