The Leeds, mother and daughter, were from New York City and had been at the lake only three or four days. The boys had noticed them several times and had even remarked on the extreme beauty of the girl, who was about seventeen, but they had not met them formally. The boys rose as they approached their table.
"I—I do not know how to thank you," Mrs. Leeds hesitated as she held out her hand to Bob.
"Please do not try," Bob smiled as he grasped her hand. "We are very glad that we were able to do what we did."
"Modesty is a sure sign of true bravery," Mrs. Leeds smiled as she shook hands with Jack.
She then introduced Clara, who thanked them very prettily but, as Jack declared afterward, "didn't gush a mite," for which they were truly grateful.
"We expect Mr. Leeds to-morrow night," Mrs. Leeds told them, "and I know you will like him."
"Everyone loves daddy," Clara added.
"We're going to take a look for the canoe after supper," Bob said and added with a blush, "perhaps you would like to go with us. The wind has about died down and it will be pleasant on the lake."
"Oh, say we'll go," Clara looked imploringly at her mother.
"Why, I'm sure we'll be delighted if we won't be in the way," she assured them.