"No, I don't," I said; "I think it would be split-tingly funny. But they won't lose. Their absence will steady the market."
"Who told you that, Sam?" said Sally.
"Sam!" said I.
IV
Even before the leaves come, you can't see the pier from the house. It runs out from the bottom of a high bank and is otherwise hidden by trees. But it's only a short distance, and in good weather we have the guests walk it, because it gives them a better chance to admire the gardens and the Athenian columns and things. But Monday, which dawned bright and still and warm, and was just as typical of May in Westchester as was the snow-and-wind storm, we drove them down in a bus because the roads and paths were horribly muddy. Of course, none of the women wanted to take the early train, so there were only the men and Sally and I in the bus. Sally said that there was going to be some fun when the men got to the pier and didn't find the Hobo, and she wasn't going to miss it. Just before we started she drew me aside and said:
"Sam, when we get there, for Heaven's sake look blank."
"I understand your fears, Sally," I said, "and I will look as blank as I possibly can. But remember, child, how easy it is for you to look blank; and don't always be urging others to attempt the impossible."
"Mrs. Sam," said Billoo, on the way down, "I can't tell you what a good time I've had."
"You nice man," said Sally, "I wish we could persuade you to stay a day or two longer."
"If it wasn't for the market, I could stay forever," said Billoo.