"Well," said Bobby thoughtfully, "we have boots and slickers and sou'westers. Perhaps they will do. When is the first meeting of our company—at the clam beds, Adam?"
I told him that it was a trifle early for that yet. It would be as soon as I thought it safe for the clams. Then a thought struck me.
"How does it happen," I asked, "that a patrol boat can be coming in here—for all the world like a yacht—and all its officers come ashore, as if they had nothing to do?"
Eve had been silent for some minutes, occupied with her daughter, who stood silent beside her. Tidda had been strangely quiet.
"Yes, Bobby," said Eve, "account for yourself. What are you here for? It is not for nothing."
"Sh! The movements of shipping are not to be reported. But I don't mind telling you, Eve, that we regard this as a base, in a sense. I came because my superior officer ordered it. I don't know his reasons, but I surmise that he hoped that some of you people would be charitable enough to ask us to dinner."
Jimmy grinned, and Old Goodwin smiled, but he said nothing. Jimmy Wales and Bobby are especial favorites of his, and Bobby is his nephew.
"I speak," said Eve, "for Mr. Ogilvie. You can't come, Bobby. You'll have to stay here with Jimmy."
"Oh, I say, Eve!"