It's pretty near dead low now, an' you'll float off in an hour or two." This was cold comfort for the gentleman, especially as it was beginning to rain; but he didn't seem a bit cast down.

He laughed, and said: "Well, I suppose it can't be helped: but I am used to being out in all weathers.

I can wait, just as well as not.

But I don't want my daughter here to get wet, and she has no umbrella.

Would you mind taking her on your boat?
When you get to the town, she can run up to our hotel by herself.