CHAPTER 1.
Sixteen years after the date of Mr.Ronald's disastrous discovery at Ramsgate--that is to say, in the year 1872--the steamship _Aquila_ left the port of New York, bound for Liverpool.
It was the month of September.

The passenger-list of the _Aquila_ had comparatively few names inscribed on it.

In the autumn season, the voyage from America to England, but for the remunerative value of the cargo, would prove to be for the most part a profitless voyage to shipowners.

The flow of passengers, at that time of year, sets steadily the other way.

Americans are returning from Europe to their own country.
Tourists have delayed the voyage until the fierce August heat of the United States has subsided, and the delicious Indian summer is ready to welcome them.