“Why, Wynnie!” gasped Polly, with a deeper color in her cheek.
“Don’t you dare to act ‘offish,’” warned Wyn. “The Lavines feel very kindly toward you–you know it. And now I am sure Mr. Lavine will feel more than kindly toward your father. Bring them together, Polly.”
“You talk as though I could do anything,” responded the boatman’s girl.
“You can. You can do everything! Show your father that you feel kindly toward Mr. Lavine. That will break down his coldness quicker than anything,” declared the inspired young peacemaker.
Wet and bedraggled, Mr. Lavine and his companion stepped ashore.
“Hi, Polly!” shouted her father. “Take Mr. Lavine up to the house and see if he can wear some of my things while his clothes are drying. I can find something at the shed here, for Bill.”
Polly hesitated just a moment. The eager Wyn gave her a little push from behind. The boatman’s girl ran forward to greet Mr. Lavine.
“Oh, sir!” she cried, timidly, “I am so sorry you had this accident.”
“I don’t know yet whether I am sorry, or not,” said Mr. Lavine, grasping her hand.
She turned and walked beside him and her other hand sought his arm in a friendly way. John Jarley stood on the landing and followed them with his eyes. The expression upon his face pleased Wyn immensely.