“No. I am going to explore this creek for a little distance, and you can get ready while I'm gone.”
“But suppose my shoes and stockings have floated down the stream? What then?”
Steve was dismayed, but he maintained his quiet air.
“Suppose,” persisted Nannie.
Just then Steve caught a glimpse of a tiny shoe at the foot of a near tree.
“And suppose,” he said, “they have not, but are awaiting their owner over yonder?”
Nannie laughed and looked around and Steve walked on.
When he returned she was ready, and they set off together toward town.
“Were you really lost?” asked Steve.
“Yes. I've been wandering around for at least two hours.”