Dallas was entering the water very slowly, and holding tight to Mr. Devering's hand.
"Have you never been in open water before?" asked my little lad's uncle.
"Once on a beach on a hot day with John and Margie, but usually only in a bath-tub," said the poor lad.
To encourage him, I ran before and did my water stunts.
He smiled when he saw me swimming and frisking and said, "The Prince is braver than I am."
"He's an old campaigner," said Mr. Devering. "That pony hasn't lived in vain. Come out deeper, boy. You won't find the water cold when you've been in a few minutes."
"It's simply freezing my heart," said the boy pitifully.
"Jump up and down with me—there that is better. Now may I splash you a bit? I hate to frighten newcomers in the water."
"Y-yes, Uncle, and I'll try to splash you."