"You ought to have a leather medal for bringing it about," declared Tobias. "I certain sure was glad to see him go. What happened? He and Lorny got out in my boat while I was asleep. I can't be about and stirrin' to watch the weather for 'em all the time."
Ralph briefly narrated the adventure while Tobias listened, puffing at his pipe and nodding his head.
"I cal'late Lorny's got something to thank you for, then?" he suggested.
Ralph laughed harshly.
"You saw how she acted when we came ashore. Did she seem overpoweringly grateful?"
"Oh, sugar!" chuckled Tobias. "What chance did you give her to fall on your neck and tell you how much she thought of you?"
"Now, Tobias Bassett! I don't want any girl to fall on my neck. Least of all Lorna Nicholet."
"Ain't ready yet to sacrifice yourself' for the good of her family?"
"I won't see a fellow like Conway Degger fool her," growled Ralph. "I will break up his game all right. But I tell you Lorna would not marry me on a bet."
"Oh, sugar! She's something of a sport, Lorny is. I cal'late you ain't ever made her that proposition?"