"What are you out here for?" he demanded harshly.
"Why, is there any harm in being out here?" asked Dean surprised.
Kirby saw that he had made a false move, and that this unreasonable taking to task of Dean was likely to excite the boy's suspicions.
"No," he answered, calming down, "I don't know that there is any harm in being out here, but you might be imprudent and endanger your safety."
"How, Mr. Kirby?"
"I was once on board a steamer like this, when a boy about your age came out, got up on the rail, and by a sudden movement of the steamer was thrown into the water. The poor fellow was drowned."
"I shan't imitate his example," said Dean. "I think he was very foolish."
"Well, I haven't found out yet whether you are prudent or imprudent. I haven't known you long enough. I thought it best to warn you, however."
"Thank you, sir."