"And we'll get right off this horrid boat, Sammy," declared Dot. "I don't ever mean to go off and be pirates with you again—never. Me and my Alice-doll don't like it at all."
"There was a rush for the open hatchway and a chorus of excited voices"
There was a rush for the open hatchway and a chorus of excited voices.
"Oh, Dot, Dot! Are you there, dear?" cried Ruth.
"You little plague, Sammy Pinkney!" gasped Agnes. "I've a mind to box your ears for you!"
"Easy, easy," advised Neale, who was dripping wet from his waist down. "Let us see if they are whole and hearty before we turn on the punishment works. Give us your hands, Dottie."
He lifted the little girl, still hugging her Alice-doll, out of the hold and kissed her himself before he put her into Ruth's arms.
"Come on up, now, Sammy, and take your medicine," Neale urged, stooping over the hatchway.