As we rose from the table the young lady turned to the lightkeeper.
“Mr. Atwood,” she said, “I presume you are going to be kind enough to take me to Wellmouth?”
“Why, Miss, I—I wan't cal'latin' to. Mr. Paine here, he's got all the gas he needs now and he'll take you over in his launch.”
“Oh! But you will go, if I ask you to?”
“Sartin sure.”
“You have been so very kind that I dislike to ask another favor; but I hoped you would send a telegram for me. My father and mother will be very much alarmed and I must wire them at once. You will have to send it 'collect,' for,” with a rueful smile, “I haven't my purse with me.”
“Land sakes! that'll be all right. Glad to help you out.”
I put in a word. “It will not be necessary,” I said, impatiently. “I have money enough, Miss Colton.”
I was ignored.
“Thank you so much, Mr. Atwood. You will come with me and look out for the telegram?”