BESSIE’S VISIT TO ROSE LAWN. 103

“Oh, no, sir. I will tell you why I ask-
ed.”

And Bessie told the whole story of her desire
to reach the island—Tom’s building the boat—
the delightful day on the island—Tom’s inten-
tion to be a chemist, and his plan for using the
island as a place to try experiments.

“Now,” thought Mr. Oramer, “ the accusa-
tion against my naughty boy is coming.”

But no; Bessie went on:—“I am afraid
we have no right to occupy the island, after
all, though Tom did take possession, and call it
‘ Bessie’s Island.’ ”

“Tom is very fond of giving names; how
came he to call his boat Ada ?”

‘Because he liked the name,” replied
Bessie; “ then you know, sir, all about that.”

« About what ?”

“Tt is not for me to say anything about—
about—” Bessie hesitated a minute and then
said “ about anybody’s business but my own.”

‘‘ And brother Tom’s. Why does he wish to
be a chemist ?”

“ Because Tom wants to help father, so that
he can have some money when he gets to