“Can you swim?” asked Sandy.
“Yes,” John answered.
“A little,” replied Claire.
“Then we’ll take you first, Cal. All ready, Hoop and Fungus.”
The two named stepped forward.
“Want to take off that nightie?” asked Hoop.
“I cal’late I’d better,” said John, suiting action to word.
“Hang it on the bridge rail, Ned,” said The Fungus. “All right now, Sandy.” The Fungus and Hoop Ross joined hands behind John’s back and seized him under each knee.
“We christen thee Cal’late,” announced Sandy.
“Cal for short,” added Spud.