Here came a mortal, But faithless was she, And alone dwell forever The Kings of the sea.

But, children at midnight--" The door opened wide.

Topping his long stiff body, Marigold's ugly one-eyed head appeared, and, as if he was tremendously proud of himself, he announced: "Major Boyce." Boyce strode quickly past him and, suddenly aware of Betty by my side, stopped short, like a private suddenly summoned to attention.

Marigold, unconscious of the blackest curses that had ever fallen upon him during his long and blundering life, made a perfect and self-satisfied exit.
Betty sprang to her feet, held her tall figure very erect, and faced the untimely visitor, her cheeks flushing deep red.

For an appreciable time, say, thirty seconds, Boyce stood stock still, looking at her from under heavy contracted brows.