That is why Jack, when he rejoined Anthony in the shade of the old shed near-by, reported uneasily that an automobile, with two occupants, was crossing the clay field from the road, and that it must be Gilberth’s. Anthony finished dressing and then went to investigate. As he turned the corner a voice hailed him.
“Hello, Tidball! Was that you, for goodness’ sake?”
“Hello!” answered Anthony. “Was what me?”
“The chap we saw in the water a minute ago. I could have sworn it was Weatherby,” Joe replied.
“I was in there,” Anthony said. “Water’s nice and warm down here.”
“Well, but how did you get dressed so quickly?” Joe went on, suspiciously. “Oh, you be blowed! It wasn’t you we saw. It was Jack Weatherby, wasn’t it?”
“Maybe it was. He’s just dressing himself around the corner there.” Anthony saw that further attempt at concealing Jack’s identity was idle. During the conversation Tracy and Anthony had not noticed each other’s presence save by perfunctory nods.
“Going back?” asked Joe.
“Yes, as soon as Jack gets his clothes on.”