But peeping out from under the scalloped awning, and gazing northwards across the sea-like river, boats under steam could be noticed. Passengers on board too, both ladies and gentlemen, the former all rigged out in summer attire.
"Would you like to be on board yonder?" said Dick to Peggy, as the girl handed him back the lorgnettes.
"No, indeed, I shouldn't," she replied, with a saucy toss of her pretty head.
"Well," she added, "if you were there, little Dickie, I mightn't mind it so much."
"Little Dick! Eh?" Dick laughed right heartily now.
"Yes, little Dickie. Mind, I am nearly twelve; and after I'm twelve I'm in my teens, quite an old girl. A child no longer anyhow. And after I'm in my teens I'll soon be sixteen, and then I suppose I shall marry."
"Who will marry you, Peggy?"
This was not very good grammar, but Dick was in downright earnest anyhow, and his young voice had softened wonderfully.
"Me?" he added, as she remained silent, with her eyes seeming to follow the rolling tide.
"You, Dick! Why, you're only a child!"