answered Jill , eagerly . `` Not a bit ; come out on the big stones and we 'll take you aboard , '' said Frank , as they steered to the place where she could embark the easiest . `` All the rest are gone to the Chasm . I wanted to go , because I 've never seen it ; but , of course , I had to give it up , as I do most of the fun ; '' and Jill sat down with an impatient sigh . `` We 'll row you round there . Ca n't land , but you can see the place and shout to the others , if that will be any comfort to you , '' proposed Frank , as they pulled away round the pier . `` Oh , yes , that would be lovely ! '' and Jill smiled at Jack , who was steering , for she found it impossible to be dismal now with the fresh wind blowing in her face , the blue waves slapping against the boat , and three good-natured lads ready to gratify her wishes . Away they went , laughing and talking gayly till they came to Goodwin 's Rocks , where an unusual number of people were to be seen though the tide was going out , and no white spray was dashing high into the air to make a sight worth seeing . `` What do you suppose they are about ? Never saw such a lot of folks at this time . Should n't wonder if something had happened . I say , put me ashore , and I 'll cut up and see , '' said the bicycle boy , who was of an inquiring turn . `` I 'll go with you , '' said Frank ; `` it wo n't take but a minute , and I 'd like to discover what it is . May be something we ought to know about . '' So the boys pulled round into a quiet nook , and the two elder ones scrambled up the rocks , to disappear in the crowd . Five , ten , fifteen minutes passed , and they did not return . Jack grew impatient , so did Jill , and bade him run up and bring them back . Glad to know what kept them , Jack departed , to be swallowed up in his turn , for not a sign of a boy did she see after that ; and , having vainly strained her eyes to discover the attraction which held them , she gave it up , lay down on their jackets , and began to read . Then the treacherous tide , as it ebbed lower and lower down the beach , began to lure the boat away ; for it was not fastened , and when lightened of its load was an easy prize to the hungry sea , always ready to steal all it can .
XXXXX knew nothing of this , for her story was dull , the gentle motion proved soothing , and before she knew it she was asleep .
Frank Goodwin Jack Jill load minute minutes nook sea sigh