"But I do not really like it; it is treacherous.

The land would satisfy me if--" She paused.
"Yes, Mrs.Falchion--'if' ?" "If I did not wish to travel," she vaguely added, looking blandly at me.
"You have travelled much ?" I ventured.
"A great deal;" and again I saw that scrutiny in her eyes.

It occurred to me at the moment that she might think I possessed some previous knowledge of her.
My mind became occupied again with the Intermediate Passenger and the portrait that he wore at his neck.

I almost laughed to think of the melodramatic turn which my first conversation with this woman might chance to take.

I felt that I was dealing with one who was able to meet cleverly any advance of mine, but I determined to lead the talk into as deep waters as possible.
"I suppose, too, you are a good practical sailor--that is, you understand seamanship, if you have travelled much ?" I do not know why I said that, for it sounded foolish to me afterwards.
"Pretty well," she replied.