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Rh some food, myself. You do get such queer things, Jim."

"I am," said Joan; "that is, if I can get a pair of sneakers in this town."

"I am," concluded Jim, "because I must go to the post-office in person. Garth, you'd better stay here. Sit exactly where you are and you'll be all right, if you don't try any manoeuvers. We'll all be back in fifteen minutes. You're on your honor," he added from the head of the steps.

Joan bought the sneakers and also a new duck hat. Returning, she met Elspeth halfway down the hill, and Jim caught up with them before they reached the foot of it. As they walked down the pier, they perceived Garth leaning over a pile-head and intently watching the unloading of a fishing-smack.

Jim went to him in three strides and put his hand on his son's shoulder.

"How did you get here?" he asked.

"Up the steps," said Garth.

Jim glanced down at the slimy, green landing-stair and at the boat bobbing erratically beside it.

"Why?" he questioned.

"I wanted to see them unload the fish,"