pose I told you that was the one and only reason for my going?
Andrew—I should say you were nutty.
Robert—Then I must be—because it’s so.
Andrew—I don’t believe it. You’ve got that idea out of your poetry books. A good dose of sea-sickness will get that out of your system.
Robert—[Frowning.] Don’t, Andy. I’m serious.
Andrew—Then you might as well stay right here, because we’ve got all you’re looking for right on this farm. There’s wide space enough, Lord knows; and you can have all the sea you want by walking a mile down to the beach; and there’s plenty of horizon to look at, and beauty enough for anyone, except in the winter. [He grins.] As for the mystery and spell, and other things you mentioned, I haven’t met ’em yet, but they’re probably lying around somewheres. I’ll have you understand this is a first class farm with all the fixings. [He laughs.]
Robert—[Joining in the laughter in spite of himself.] It’s no use talking to you, you chump!
Andrew—Maybe; but you’ll see I’m right before you’ve gone far. You’re not as big a nut as you’d like to make out. You’d better not say anything to Uncle Dick about spells and things when you’re on the ship. He’ll likely chuck you overboard for a Jonah. [He jumps down from fence.] I’d better run along. I’ve got to wash up some as long as Ruth’s Ma is coming over for supper.
Robert—[Pointedly—almost bitterly.] And Ruth.
