"Yes!" I cried, and plunged in.
As I came up, I turned and waved my hand. She waved in answer, and when I looked again she was gone.
I struck swiftly for the wharf, allowing for the incoming tide.
When I was half-way across, I heard the sound of oars and, on taking a backward glance, I saw Rita making toward me.
"Hello!" I cried, when she drew near. "What's the matter?"
A little shame-faced, she bent over. "I got scared," she said timidly, "scared you mightn't make it. Sure you don't want me to row you in?"
The boat was alluring, but my pride was touched.
"Quite sure," I answered. "I'm as fresh as the trout round my waist. Thanks all the same."
"All right! Guess I was foolish. You ain't a man; you're a porpoise."
With this half-annoyed sally, she swung the bow of the boat and rowed away.