“Why, John! Nonsense! I—I love to haul in other folks's ships,” laughed the girl, embarrassedly.
“Yes, Miss; I know you do,” grunted John.
Billy colored.
“No, no—that is, I mean—I don't do it—very much,” she stammered.
John did not answer apparently; but Billy was sure she caught a low-muttered, indignant “much!” as he snapped the door shut and took his place at the wheel.
To herself she laughed softly. She thought she possessed the secret now of some of John's disapproving glances toward her humble guests of the summer before.
CHAPTER XII. SISTER KATE
At the station Mrs. Hartwell's train was found to be gratifyingly on time; and in due course Billy was extending a cordial welcome to a tall, handsome woman who carried herself with an unmistakable air of assured competence. Accompanying her was a little girl with big blue eyes and yellow curls.
“I am very glad to see you both,” smiled Billy, holding out a friendly hand to Mrs. Hartwell, and stooping to kiss the round cheek of the little girl.