"What's in it?" asked Chet suspiciously, as he took it.
"Why—er——" began Andy, but just then Mabel Chase, one of the prettiest girls in Harbor View, approached, and Andy took off his hat. Chet did likewise, making an elaborate bow. At the same time he let slide to the sidewalk the package containing the lobster, and he gave it a shove with his foot so that it would be in back of him.
For Chet was a very proud youth, and did not want to be seen carrying a bundle, especially by a young lady whose good opinion he desired.
"Charming day, Miss Chase," murmured Chet, as he resumed an upright position.
"Delightful," agreed the girl. "Where have you been, Andy? I haven't seen you in some time."
"Oh, we have been sailing."
"Have you rescued any more strange boys?" she went on. "Oh, I think that was so romantic! Does he know who he is yet?" For the story of Paul Gale was well known in Harbor View by this time.
"He hasn't the least idea," answered Andy.
"Beautiful day," observed Chet, edging nearer to the girl. "Oh, I said that before, didn't I?" he asked in confusion, for the dude's powers of talk were rather limited. "I mean, do you think it's going to rain?"
"Hardly," replied Andy. "But say, Chet, why don't you open the present
I gave you?"