“On the side of that big bluff just west of town. Oh, that’s some story. The hermit lived there until about ten years ago. Some said he was a Jesuit priest who lived a hermit’s life to become more holy, 186and others that he was an Italian Noble who had fled from Italy to escape punishment for a crime. Nobody ever really knew much about him except that he was highly educated and read books in several different languages. But the cave is still there, in the ledge of rocks near the top of the bluff.”
“Oh, I’d love to see it.” Gertie liked romantic things.
“So would I,” Katy added.
“Me too,” echoed Sherm.
“Count me in,” said the Captain, “or rather let me take you all to town some day to explore these marvels.”
“They really aren’t much to see–they’re more interesting to tell about. But I’d be glad to see them all again myself,” Ernest replied.
Wing Fan had prepared so many good things for them that none of the party felt energetic enough for rowing immediately after supper. They were glad to linger over the peach ice cream which was Wing’s crowning triumph, and nibble at the Chinese sweetmeats about which they were rather doubtful.
“I don’t believe I ever tasted such good ice cream,” exclaimed Katy.
“I think Wing Fan must say magical words over everything he cooks–his things are so different and taste so good. I never thought I liked rice before, but his was delicious.”
