"Oh, sail," cried the child, "and it'll never be the first time again! Could you wait while I get Anna Belle?"
"Certainly."
Like a flash Jewel sprang from the boat and fled up the wharf and lawn.
Mr. Evringham smiled and shook his head at his daughter. "A creature of fire and dew," he said.
"I don't know how to thank you for all your goodness to her," said Julia simply.
"It would offend me to be thanked for anything I did for Jewel," he returned.
"I understand. She is your own flesh and blood. But what I feel chiefly grateful for is the wisdom of your kindness. I believe you will never spoil her. I should rather we had remained poor and struggling than to have that."
Mr. Evringham gave the speaker a direct look in which appeared a trace of humor.
"I think I am slightly inclined," he returned, "to overlook the fact that you and Harry have any rights in Jewel which should be respected; but theoretically I do acknowledge them, and it is going to be my study not to spoil her. I have an idea that we couldn't," he added.
"Oh, yes, we could," returned Julia, "very easily."