"Do you like it?" she asked him, watching his face covertly.
"I hate it! But I can stick, just the same. I have a scheme for improving the taffy cutting machines, too. I think I've a streak in me for mechanics. I have always taken to engines and motors and other machinery."
"An inventor!"
"Yes. Why not?" he asked soberly, "Oh! I'm not going to be one of those inventors who let sharp business men cheat them out of their eye-teeth. If I improve that candy cutter it will cost I. Tapp real money, believe me!"
Louise's eyes danced at him in admiration and she dimpled. "I think you are splendid, Lawford!" she murmured.
It was a mean advantage to take of a young man. They were on the open beach and every eye from the lighthouse to Tapp Point might be watching them. Lawford groaned deeply—and looked it.
"Don't," she said. "I know it's because of me you have been driven to work."
"You know that, Miss Grayling? Louise!"
"Yes. I had a little talk with your father. He's such a funny man!"
"If you can find anything humorous about I. Tapp in his present mood you are a wonder!" he exclaimed. "Oh, Louise!" He could not keep his hungry gaze off her face.