But there was a thunderbolt in it; for about an hour before sunset, when the ladies were superintending and trying not to criticize the ingenious efforts to produce a make-believe of comfort on board for them, word was brought down to the boat by the count's valet that the Marquis de Rouaillout had arrived.

Renee turned her face to her brother superciliously.

Roland shrugged.

'Note this, my sister,' he said; 'an anticipation of dates in paying visits precludes the ripeness of the sentiment of welcome.

It is, however, true that the marquis has less time to spare than others.' 'We have started; we are on the open sea.