"What do you want?" said Faith, as she carefully set the boat's head that way. "A fish for dinner?"
"No"—said Mr. Linden,—"I have too much respect for that basket at my feet. But you know, Faith, we are having a sort of preliminary play-practice at seeking our fortune, to-day—we must carry it out. Just imagine, my dear, that we are adrift in this boat, with nothing at all for dinner, and supper a wild idea!—not the eastern fisherman who for four fish received from the Sultan four hundred pieces of gold, would then appear so interesting as these."
"If you wanted dinner from them—but you say you don't," said Faith laughing. "Endecott, I don't understand in the least! And besides, you said you wouldn't 'drift' but navigate!"
And her soft notes rolled over the water, too soft to reach the yet somewhat distant fishermen.
"And so because I turn navigator you turn Siren!" said Mr. Linden. "But
I have you safe in my boat—I need not stop to listen."
"But what did you mean?"
"By what?"
"All that."
"Short and comprehensive!" said Mr. Linden—"come up on the other side, Faith, the current is less strong. All about seeking our fortune, do you mean? Did you never hear of any other extraordinary prince and princess who did the same?"
"If I am not adrift in the boat, I am in my wits!" said Faith,—"and with no sail nor rudder either. Why are those fishermen interesting, Endecott?"