"
CHAPTER XIII--THE LOGIC OF YOUTH
"I wish I knew whether you are merely headstrong, or whether you really
intend to be a Solomon planter," Sheldon said in the morning, at
breakfast.
"I wish you were more adaptable," Joan retorted. "You have more
preconceived notions than any man I ever met. Why in the name of common
sense, in the name of . . . fair play, can't you get it into your head
that I am different from the women you have known, and treat me
accordingly? You surely ought to know I am different. I sailed my own
schooner here--skipper, if you please. I came here to make my living.
You know that; I've told you often enough. It was Dad's plan, and I'm
carrying it out, just as you are trying to carry out your Hughie's plan.
Dad started to sail and sail until he could find the proper islands for
planting. He died, and I sailed and sailed until I arrived here.
Well,"--she shrugged her shoulders--"the schooner is at the bottom of the
sea. I can't sail any farther, therefore I remain here. And a planter I
shall certainly be."
"You see--" he began.
"I haven't got to the point," she interrupted. "Looking back on my
conduct from the moment I first set foot on your beach, I can see no
false pretence that I have made about myself or my intentions.
Pages:
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138
139
140