APTER FOURTEEN.

Again the _Cynthia_ sailed on a cruise. She had to visit various parts
of the West Indies; sometimes cruising off the Leeward, and sometimes
off the Windward Islands. Now to convoy a fleet of merchant vessels
from one port to another, and occasionally to accompany them part of the
way across the Atlantic, till they were clear of the region infested by
the enemy's smaller privateers.

Several months were thus occupied in a somewhat tedious manner. Small
prizes had been taken; but these did not satisfy the ardent mind of the
gallant captain, who appeared to be longing to meet an enemy the size of
his own frigate, a more worthy competitor than any of the vessels he had
hitherto encountered. At length, Captain Falkner and his young
lieutenant were enabled once more to pay a visit to the Earl and his
family. Denham was received as kindly as before; and it was very
evident the affection existing between Lady Sophy and Captain Falkner
had in no way decreased. During the last day of his stay on shore,
however, a degree of melancholy seemed to weigh down his captain at
times. Occasionally he talked in his usual lively and animated manner,
and spoke hopefully of the future, when, the war being ended, he might
with honour sheath his sword and take up his abode on shore.

"At present, however," he remarked, "while my country demands my
services I am bound to remain afloat."

The frigate, however, was again ordered to sea, and the lovers parted,
hoping ere long to meet again. Captain Falkner was unusually silent
during his drive to the port, and when he arrived on board he retired to
his cabin, and it was not until the moment the ship had to get under
weigh he appeared on deck. He was then as full of life and activity as
usual, and issued his orders in that clear ringing voice by which he was
so well-known. As the frigate under all sail stood out to sea, Denham
more than once observed his captain turning his glass towards the
governor's house high up on the mountain side. In his mind's eye he
probably saw her who had so deservedly won his brave heart, though the
distance was in reality too great to have discovered any human being.
Denham felt very much inclined to imitate his commander's example; but
though he lifted his telescope, he quickly lowered it again.

"No, no; what folly in me to indulge in so idle a dream," he said to
himself, turning away. "I was received as Barry's friend, and treated
w