nd, calling Bob, in
accordance with an arrangement made overnight, we both jumped on board
the boat, and, pulling to the opposite side of a tiny headland about a
mile away, stripped and plunged overboard, where we swam and dived, and
wallowed about in the deliciously cool element for a good half-hour,
enjoying our bath as thoroughly as though we were a couple of school-
boys playing truant. We were strongly tempted to make a small
preliminary exploring excursion inland after this, but Miss Ella had
solemnly bound us both down not to do so without her; so we returned to
the _Water Lily_ instead, wonderfully refreshed and invigorated by our
dip, and quite ready for the early breakfast which was to form the first
regular feature in the programme for the day.

As we rowed back to the cutter, I embraced the opportunity to pass once
more over the spot where I thought I had observed the oyster-bed; and,
on reaching it, and peering down in the shadow of the boat, I found I
was right: there lay beneath us a bed of several yards extent of what I
felt sure were oysters.

We described a short circuit round our little craft before stepping on
board again; and I felt so ashamed of her dingy, weather-beaten
appearance, that I resolved she should have a fresh coat of paint before
she went outside again. This we decided she should receive next day, I
undertaking to wield the paint-brush whilst Bob employed himself in
overhauling the rigging and examining the spars.

Breakfast was soon disposed of, as we were all equally eager to stand
once more on mother earth; and then, Bob providing himself with a few
biscuits, whilst I did the same, adding a few knick-knacks for my fair
companion, we jumped into the boat, and in a very few minutes reached
the shore.

The painter was made fast to the stem of a stout shrub which grew close
to the water's edge; and then Bob went straight towards the widest patch
of shade, and the softest turf he could find, and flung himself
forthwith upon the ground, asserting that it was his fixed intention to
remain there for the rest of the day, and enjoy his holiday in
accordance with his own peculiar notions.

After a few vain attempts to persuade him that he would find it much
more pleasant to accompany us in a ramble over the island, we gave him
up to his own devices; and, Ella accepting the support of my arm, we
strolled slowly away.

Our steps were directed, in the first instance, towards the northern