"Christie—Mrs. Tom's niece—I thought she was away!" exclaimed Willard.
"So she was, but I went for her this morning; couldn't be bothered doing her work and my own both any longer," said Carl.
"I suppose I may go in?" said Willard, feeling a sudden thrill of pleasure at the knowledge that this radiant girl was an inhabitant of the island.
"Yes, I suppose you may, if you like," said Carl, in a tone of the utmost unconcern.
Thus kindly permitted, Willard advanced and rapped at the door. It was opened by Mrs. Tom, whose surprise was only equaled by her delight at being honored by this unexpected visit.
Near the window that overlooked the lodge, stood the golden-haired vision of the beach. She turned round with a quick, shy glance, and blushed most enchantingly beneath the deep, dark eyes of the stranger.
"My niece, Christie, Mr. Drummond," said Mrs. Tom, directing his attention to her with a wave of her hand. "She got back this mornin'. I allers find it powerful lonesome here without Christie."
"I have no doubt of it," said Mr. Drummond, seating himself. "But I have had the pleasure of seeing Miss Christie before."
"Where?" asked Christie, opening her blue eyes in wonder.
"Down on the beach, a few moments ago."