“That’s where she differs from most members of the fair sex,” hazarded Walter.
“And see how fast she’s going,” said Bess, ignoring the gibe. “We’re half a mile from shore already.”
“Let’s hug the shore and go all the way around the lake. We may be able to pick out some splendid spots to go picnicking in.”
“And on the way back let’s land on the island,” suggested Bess. “I wonder if anybody lives there.”
“Joel told me that there was a man who had a cabin over there and comes up here almost every summer,” replied Jack. “He lives all alone, and spends his time in collecting plants and flowers. Joel can’t understand that. Thinks he’s a bug. I suppose he’s a botanist or something of the kind.”
“Well, he ought to have plenty of chances on that island,” remarked Cora as her eye took in the luxuriant verdure of the place.
“Perhaps he wouldn’t care to have us break in upon him,” observed Belle. “He may be of the crank or hermit type.”
“Or a woman-hater,” laughed Bess.
“If he is, you’ll cure him,” declared Walter gallantly.
“I guess he won’t object,” said Paul. “Anyway, he doesn’t own the island. He just camps out on it, and we have as much right there as he has.”