Then--all unconscious of my fate--I left her.
A faint breeze greeted me as I sauntered slowly along the garden walks--a breath of wind scarce strong enough to flutter the leaves, yet it had a salt savor in it that was refreshing after the tropical heat of the past night.

I was at that time absorbed in the study of Plato, and as I walked, my mind occupied itself with many high problems and deep questions suggested by that great teacher.

Lost in a train of profound yet pleasant thought, I strayed on further than I intended, and found myself at last in a by-path, long disused by our household--a winding footway leading downward in the direction of the harbor.

It was shady and cool, and I followed the road almost unconsciously, till I caught a glimpse of masts and white sails gleaming through the leafage of the overarching trees.

I was then about to retrace my steps, when I was startled by a sudden sound.