A gurgle of objurgations rose from the hatchway, and followed the young man as he made his escape.
'I wouldn't have done it for another,' said he; 'the old lady is put out, and will not forgive me. It will be bad walking by the Strood, Glory! Can't you put me across to the Fresh Marsh?'
'If there is water enough I will do so. Be quick now. There is no time to spare.'
He came down the ladder and stepped into the punt.
'Give me the oars, Glory. You sit in the stern and take the lanthorn.'
'It is in the bows.'
'I know that. But can you not understand, Glory, that when I am rowing, I like to see you. Hold the lanthorn so that I may get a peep of your face now and then.'
'Do not be foolish, George,' said Mehalah. However, she did as he asked, and the yellow dull light fell on her face, red handkerchief and cap.
'You look like a witch,' laughed De Witt.
'I will steer, row as hard as you can, George,' said the girl; then abruptly she exclaimed, 'I have something for you. Take it now, and look at it afterwards.'