"So it is. I was just repeating a line from _Alice in Wonderland_."

While Harvey spoke, he was trying to loosen the crab. The harder he
pulled, the more angry it grew, and the harder it bit. Finally, he
pulled so desperately that the crab came, but a claw was left hanging
to poor Beth's finger.

Harvey started to drop the crab. Again Beth ceased her yelling.

"Harvey, don't you dare let my crab go. Put it in the basket and then
come and get this awful claw off my finger."

He did as he was bid, secretly admiring his little friend's pluck.
They had a great time getting off the dismembered claw, but, finally,
they succeeded. Poor Beth's finger was bitten to the bone. Harvey
really felt very sympathetic, but, boy-like, was somewhat bashful about
expressing it.

"Beth, does it hurt much?" was all he said.

"Pretty bad," she admitted, forcing back the tears. "Say, Harvey, were
there any other crabs?"

"I had time to look at only two of the lines, I got three crabs from
the two. There were two on one line, so with yours we have four. But
never mind the crabs; we must go up to the house and have your finger
dressed."

"No, we must first see if there are any other crabs. Here, tie my
handkerchief around my finger. I guess I can stand it awhile."