Yes, if the Celebrity was caught
on the other side of Far Harbor, all would be up with John Crocker! But
it would never do to let Miss Thorn discover my discomfiture.
"There is something in what you say," I replied, with what bravado I
could muster.
"A little, I think," she returned, smiling; "now, what I wish you to do
is to make Uncle Fenelon put into Far Harbor. If he refuses, you can go
in in spite of him, since you and Mr. Farrar are the only ones who can
sail. You have the situation in your own hands."
There was certainly wisdom in this, also. But the die was cast now, and
pride alone was sufficient to hold me to the course I had rashly begun
upon. Pride! What an awkward thing it is, and more difficult for most
of us to swallow than a sponge.
"I thank you for this interest in my welfare, Miss Thorn," I began.
"No fine speeches, please, sir," she cut in, "but do as I advise."
"I fear I cannot."
"Why do you say that? The thing is simplicity itself."
"I should lose my self-respect as a practical joker. And besides,"
I said maliciously, "I started out to have some fun with the Celebrity,
and I want to have it."
"Well," she replied, rather coolly, "of course you can do as you choose."
We were passing within a hundred yards of the lighthouse, set cheerlessly
on the bald and sandy tip of the point.
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