For the fantastic boat had been attached to the vessel; and it was Deucalion and Pyrrha’s habit to sit in it of mornings, and be pulled slowly or swiftly, as the vessel pleased.
Hellen’s tone, though subdued, was most eager. Thus, Electra, who had never been in the boat, and who longed for the ride, answered fitly, “Yea.” And at once arose and walked off with him.
When they were at the stern, and looking over, Pelop, who had apparently been all intent upon some remark of Ephes, turned and confided:
“Ah, Peloppa, but that young Hellen is a wary one! Didst thou note him? Well can I see what he meaneth.”
Peloppa, who had been no less interested, returned, “I have lost naught. And how quick is she to further him. What haste was in her gait, what hope was in her eye. Is that Atlantean modesty?”
“She hath no thought of his meaning.” Pelop’s tone was indignant. “If she had thought of it, she would have looked wise, and said ‘Nay,’ however much against her will. As if I know not young women!”
“That is thou dost flatter thyself thou knowest them.”
“Thou canst not deny I have had my trials.” Here he coughed and winked in his waggish way, so that Peloppa laughed, as she retorted:
“Of a truth, thy trials have been sore—if thou meanest me. Ah, to think I was once young, Pelop. And what a race I led thee. There was no such willing way as this, though I felt but the more willing within.”
“That is why I boast of my trials. When thou saidst ‘Nay,’ and ran away, I read thee, and laughed. But caught thee soon.”