Looking round, Clip recognized in the man hailing him Aaron Wolverton.
Mr. Wolverton did not own any boat himself, and when he had occasion to go across the river he generally managed to secure a free passage with some one who was going over. If absolutely necessary, he would pay a nickel; but he begrudged even this small sum, so mean was he.
Clip stopped paddling, and answered the call.
"Hi, Massa Wolverton; what's the matter?"
"Come back here."
"What fo'?"
"I want you to take me over to Martin."
Now Clip was naturally obliging, but he disliked Wolverton as much as one of his easy good nature could do. So he felt disposed to tantalize him.
"Can't do it, Massa Wolverton. I'm in a terrible hurry."
"It won't take you a minute to come back."