"Gone to the city to-day," replied Paul, "but I take him home every night in the Peter Pan. That's what he wants the best boat on the lake for."
"He always believed me, and never wanted me to go away," Mr. Starr said. "And now if I could see him—"
"I don't see why you cannot," put in Jack. "He often rides by here, doesn't he Paul?"
"He thinks this the prettiest end of the lake," Paul replied. "But if you ever knew him and he was your friend I am sure he would be only too glad to make a special trip to see you, for he boasts he never forgets an old friend," Paul said.
"That's him—that's Brendon," exclaimed Mr. Starr, moving uneasily in his chair. "I feel I must be dreaming."
There was a general pause—for realization. Everyone felt indeed it was like a dream, and almost beyond human power to grasp. Mr. Starr swept his hand over his forehead.
"Laurel," he called, "I wonder if I couldn't take a ride in the
Peter Pan. Ask the nurse, please—?"
"Oh, no," objected that young lady. "It would not be wise for you to take another boat ride to-day. We will ask the doctor about it tomorrow."
"Don't be impatient, father," pleaded Laurel. "You must not forget how weak your head has been."
"All right, child. But I want it cleared up," he murmured. "I feel there is no safety for me until I'm vindicated."