We all want her for a game of shuffle-board."

Jasper sighed. So did he long for a game of shuffle-board. Then he
brought himself up, and said as brightly as he could: "Mr. Selwyn begs
Polly to stay, and won't have any one else read to him, Miss
Vanderburgh, so I don't see as it can be helped. He's been very sick,
you know."

Fanny Vanderburgh beat the toe of her boot on the deck floor. "It's a
perfect shame. And that horrible old man, he's so seedy and common
--just think of it--and spoiling all our fun!"

Jasper looked off over the sea, and said nothing.

"As for that dreadful boy, his grandson, I think he's a boor. Goodness
me--I hope nobody will introduce him. I'm sure I never'll recognise him
afterward."

Jasper turned uneasily. "Please, Mr. King, do make Polly listen to
reason," begged Fanny. "There isn't another girl on board I care to go
with--at least not in the way I would with her. The Griswolds are well
enough to play games with, and all that; but you know what I mean. Do
make her come out with us this morning, and listen to reason," she
repeated, winding up helplessly.

"But I think she is just right," said Jasper, stoutly.

"Right!" cried Fanny, explosively; "oh, how can you say so, Mr. Jasper!
Why, she is losing just every bit of the fun."