“No, indeed!”

“But you will,” insisted Lucy with spirit.

“No matter.”

“It is matter. Besides, I can’t see my way to the house without the lantern. It’s dark as pitch.”

“Take ’em both, then.”

“Of course I shan’t,” replied the girl indignantly. “And anyway, if I did, I couldn’t carry the two in this wind. If I can’t have but one, I’d rather have the lantern.”

“That’s nonsense!” Martin returned.

“What use was there in my bringin’ you home if you get soaked now?” 130

“But I can’t see an inch before my face without a light.”

“Just as you say, then. Here it is.” Holding out the lantern, he took back the umbrella.