But, even while she spoke, she espied the well-known form of Carl Henley, approaching the house.
Sibyl sprang to the bell, and rang a peal, that presently brought Jenny.
"Jenny, run down to the door, and tell the boy you will see passing to come up here immediately," she said, excitedly.
Jennie disappeared, and soon returned with Master Carl looking considerably amazed, not to say frightened, at this unexpected summons.
"Carl, what time do you return to the island?" asked Sibyl.
"Right off—soon's ever I get some tea, and sugar, and coffee, and starch, and things for Aunt Tom."
"Will you take me over when you are going, Carl?"
"Yes'm, if you'll not be long getting ready; 'cause there's a storm a comin', an' no matter how hard I pull, it'll be dark afore we get there," said Carl.
"I will be ready in five minutes, and wait for you on the beach. That will do," said Sibyl, rising, to close the interview.
Carl hurried out to fulfill his commissions for Mrs. Tom, and Sibyl went to her room to dress, and take leave of Mrs. Brantwell.