“A beautiful picture,” said Terry.
“And you—have you nothing to say in forgiveness?” He was looking straight at Arden.
“Oh, I think it is wonderful,” she said. “There is no need of pardon. But it is too beautiful! I never——”
“It is not half good enough!” he interrupted. “It was only from memory. Perhaps you will do me the honor to sit for me that I may properly complete it.”
“If Daddy and Mother consent,” she said.
“As if they wouldn’t!” said Sim.
They were at the houseboat now. It seemed silent and deserted, but the chief said:
“Might as well take precautions. Nobody ever yet died of a broken neck by drinking milk. I’ll go aboard first.”
“And if he utters another of his famous sayings I’ll choke him with my handkerchief!” hissed Sim.
The silence of Tania as they approached close to the Merry Jane was fairly conclusive evidence that no strangers were aboard. They walked confidently up the little gangplank and, allowing Dimitri to take the lead, followed him into the living room.