“None of us boys missing!” joked Ed, as he splashed up.
“Lobsters are worth forty cents a pound! Save that one! Save it!” commanded Norton, as he came alongside with strong, even strokes.
“Oh dear!” screamed Belle.
She really seemed in distress, but something nerved her to strike out as she never had before, and before she knew it she was swimming.
A figure in red guided to her side–a veritable mermaid. It was the girl from the lighthouse–Rosalie.
“Take it slowly–you are doing lovely!” she commended. “You are swimming!”
“Oh–Oh–I–I’m so glad!” cried Belle. “I’ve always wanted to, but they said I–I would be afraid!”
Rosalie was half supporting her, but really Belle was doing well, and gaining confidence every minute. As the lighthouse maid swam past Cora she managed to whisper:
“Father wants to see you. Come over when you can. I think he has had some word from Aunt Margaret.”