er; I know you are not Mr. Waterford, and I
am thankful you are not."

"So am I. If I were Mr. Waterford, I would sell out, and be somebody
else the first thing I did," I replied, as I went forward.

I washed off the anchor, and the end of the cable, and stowed them in
their proper places. I cleaned off the deck, and was only satisfied
when I had everything neat enough to take dinner upon. I was sure the
fair helms-lady could steer better now that this mud and confusion were
removed, for they lay in her line of vision as she sighted the Florina.
I then went below, cleared off the table, washed the dishes, and put
them in the lockers, swept out the cabin and cook-room, and put
everything in good order. The interior of the yacht was a model of
comfort and elegance, and it was unpleasant to see anything out of
place there.

As it was probable that Miss Collingsby would be compelled to sleep on
board, I satisfied myself that everything in and about the berths was
in good order. I took a pair of rifles from one of them, where Mr.
Waterford kept them for his hunting trips, and set them up near the
companion-way. While I was about it, I explored the cabin in order to
ascertain its resources. I found almost everything there which could
make the voyagers on the lake happy and comfortable. There was plenty
of whiskey and wine, as well as other liquors, which could possibly
make the owner happy; but they had no allurements to me.

Having finished my examination, I went on deck, and relieved Marian at
the helm, though she declared that she was not tired. I thought it best
for her to save her strength, for I did not know what she might be
called upon to endure before we returned to Chicago.

"I have put the cabin in order for you, Miss Collingsby," said I, as I
seated myself.

"For me? I am very grateful to you, but I don't think I shall have any
use for it."

"We may have to sail all night."

"If we do, I will stay here with you. I could not sleep in such a place
as that."

"I think it is a very nice place."

"So do I; and under other circumstances I should be very happy there.
Do you suppose Julia or Florina Lord is with Mr. Whippleton?"

"I am satisfied that neither of them is with him."

"Mr. Waterford said they were; but that was a part of his deception."

"He does not scruple to lie."

"If Julia were only here, I should be satisfied," added she, looking
out upon the lake.

"I am sorry she is not; but you ma