"Now, Mansy, look out!" cried Alfy. And whirling through the air came a thin rope, which, before she was aware, struck her shoulder.
"Oh!" she exclaimed, "what's that? What are you doing, Alfy?"
"Catch tight hold of it—quick, Mansy!"
Mansy's energy and common-sense were returning, and she was on the alert in a moment. She caught the rope, and held it firmly. "The new clothes line!" she exclaimed, "Bless the boy! what next?"
"Pull, Mansy dear, pull!" he shouted. She pulled hard, and the tub slowly floated towards her.
"That's right; jolly!" exclaimed Alfy, as the tub, with its bright, brave little burden, came close to Mansy and touched the ground before her.
"My dear boy," exclaimed the good old woman, "how did this water happen? And I am so glad to find you all well."
"Yes, all right, Mansy. Now get in the tub, quick! Is it not fun?"
"What! me get in the washing-tub?" she exclaimed. "Oh! I couldn't!"
"Why, yes, Mansy dear; that's what I came for. You'll be all right."