"I'm going over to the Island to get the mail," he said to Counsell in an offhand tone. "Like to come along? It's considered very picturesque."
Counsell looked at Pen in indecision. He most assuredly did not want to go, but perhaps the best way to make headway with the girl was to be agreeable to the old man. You couldn't always tell.
"Won't you come too?" he asked.
Pen shook her head. "I've a hundred things to do."
"Couldn't I help?" he asked eagerly.
Pen laughed clearly. "Heavens! what do you know about turkey chicks? Or making butter and cleaning house?"
He still hesitated.
Pen arose briskly. "Run along," she commanded. "When you come back perhaps you'll stay to supper." She had not intended to ask him. It was surprised out of her. It surprised her father too. "Was that necessary?" his elevated eyebrows asked. He did not like this young man as well as he had in the beginning.
Counsell blushed red with pleasure. "That is kind," he said.
"Then mind you're back in time," said Pen, leaving them. "You never can tell about the engine in our boat."