ce between them. Hugh regarded her earnestly, feeling
sure she would give in at last. Dexie had no thought of doing so, but was
striving to think of some way to escape him. As she sat, her hands folded
in her lap, she studied well the position of the vessel; noting also the
ladders that hung over the side, and a daring thought entered her mind.

"Dear me!" she said at last, "this is getting very monotonous. I am tired
doing nothing. I think I might learn how to use an oar, even though I may
never have the chance to put my knowledge into practice."

She reached forward and grasped a light oar, handling it rather awkwardly,
as a novice might, but succeeded at last in getting the blade over the
side, more by chance than good management, apparently.

"I thought you knew how to use an oar already," said Hugh, his mind turned
a moment from the subject that had been absorbing him. He watched the
spasmodic dabs that Dexie was making, not thinking there was any purpose in
the seemingly awkward efforts at rowing.

"Well, no--I'm not much of a hand at it--I must confess, but I think--I
could learn--in time," and she glanced up to see if they were nearing the
vessel; but Hugh followed her look and instantly surmised her intention.

"Ha! I see your scheme! Let me warn you not to make any outcry in hope of
getting assistance from that vessel, for I tell you it would come too
late."

"I am not afraid of your threats, sir, as you might know by this time,"
said Dexie, in a firm voice. "I do not forget the time you were going to
throw me from the roof, if I did not say the words you wished to hear. I am
a good swimmer, let me tell you, so you will not find me so easy to drown
as you may imagine; however, accidents will happen, and I would fain die a
dry death, so take up the oars and turn back to the city, or I shall jump
overboard, and try and make for that vessel."

"Sit down, Dexie," said Hugh, fiercely. "Do you think I am such a fool as
to let you escape me, after all? Let me tell you, I planned for all
emergencies before I asked you to come out with me, and yesterday I made my
will and settled up my affairs by writing a letter for your father, in case
we do not return. So take care, it remains with you if there shall be a
tragedy. There shall be no risk of a separation, for if you make any effort
to escape, it will be stopped by this," and a bright revolver gleamed in
the rays of the setting sun.

Dexie shuddered in spite of