12 OVER ON THE ISLAND It did! I walked from Carleton shore to the "jumping-off- place" of the new cable. A short distance ahead of me a red-headed lad of about twelve years was hurrying along. I set off at a brisk trot. I did not want to enjoy the cable alone, and besides, I wanted informa¬ tion. I overtook him at last, but after scrutinizing his face I saw quite clearly that I would get neither companionship nor information from him. His back had seemed quite intelligent and friendly. "Wait a minute." He waited, eyeing me distrustfully. "Has the cable always been in this spot?" "Idunno." "When was it put here?" "Idunno." "Who laid it then?" He gave me a sulky look, and with a last " I dunno, " moved on. The information I had received weighed heavily on my shoulders so I sat down . . . About ten minutes later a kind-looking old man trudged toward me. He was dressed in faded blue ill-fitting trousers with a shirt to match. His face was round and chubby. His eyes opened wide with interest. "The cable? Why sure." He settled down to enjoy himself. I wasn't quite so comfortable. He had a few parcels with him which looked to be groceries. Suppose his wife were standing at the door impatiently waiting for the baking powder or molasses. I could see her stirring . . . stirring . . . and peering . . . and scolding. But perhaps it was tobacco ... or nails . . .