“But not so soon after a wreck.”
“What has that to do with it?” Cora wanted to know. “The wreck is over. It wasn’t a bad one, except that the ship was lost. All the people were saved. I think it was wonderful.”
“All but that poor girl,” murmured Belle.
“Well, we can’t even be sure there was such a person,” remarked Eline. “It was only a rumor, and really, Rosalie said the captain could account for everyone.”
“You never can tell when there are a number of people,” supplemented Cora. “Perhaps this girl had her name down on the list, and, after all, did not go. Then, when she was looked for, and not found, they jumped to the conclusion that she had gone overboard. I’ve often read of such cases.”
“So have I,” declared Bess. “Come on, Belle. Let’s go for a ride. It will do us all good.”
“Oh, well, I don’t want to be a spoil-sport I’ll go; but, Cora, dear, you must take along a couple of life preservers.”
“A dozen if you like, Belle.”
“And you’ll promise not to go outside the bay–you’ll stay where it’s calm?”
“I promise!” exclaimed Cora, raising her right hand.