d them of
a pirate ship they had once battled with and the rich stores they had
taken from her. The prisoners had been left on an island.

"But--how would they get to their homes?" she asked.

"Oh, that wasn't our lookout. They'd have done the same thing to us if
they could, maybe worse. Occasionally vessels are wrecked, and sometimes
it is months before a ship goes that way and sees their signal."

Yes, she was glad nothing of the kind had happened to her. And Chilian,
watching the little shiver, gave thanks also.

Thomas Marsh enjoyed these evenings wonderfully. He was always glancing
at Cynthia to see if what he said met with her approval. It seemed so
strangely sweet to be thrilled at the tones of her voice and the touch
of her hand. And when she looked up and smiled, the blood surged to his
brain. He was quite a favorite with the girls, but no other one had that
power over him.

Of course, they met here and there at the different companies--he never
went unless she was sure to be there, and if he asked she answered
frankly. Cousin Chilian took her down to see the _Vixen_, which was
nearly ready for her new cruise. He was very proud of her, so was
Captain Langfelt, and they had some tea in the cabin. But some sudden
knowledge came to Chilian Leverett, and he was sincerely glad the young
man was going away.

The evening Thomas Marsh came in to say good-bye, she was alone.

"You'll find Miss Cynthia up in the study," said Jane, and thither he
went two steps at a time. She had on a soft gown, and he thought she
looked like some lovely flower as she rose to greet him.

"I believe we are to sail to-morrow. Stores and cargo are all in, and
now the captain is in haste to be off. Come down about eleven in the
morning and wish me God-speed, a safe journey, and a happy return."

"Yes. We were talking of it to-day. Oh, I hope you will have all, though
a great many things happen in three years." Neither of them, indeed no
one, could have predicted what was to happen in those eventful three
years.

They discussed the pleasant times, the girls and boys who had grown up
and married during the whole seven years of his absence. Oh, how sweet
and pretty she was! He envied the boys like Bentley Upham and two or
three others who had business at home--but no, he never could have been
anything but a sailor.

Then he rose to go. He stood holding her hand and the red and white kept
flitting over her face, her eyes were so soft