Her face was slightly flushed and her eyes sparkled.
"I was just coming in to fetch you," she observed; "it is so pleasant out here now." "Delightful," said Hardy.
"We had to drop behind a little," said Miss Nugent, raising her voice.
"Aunt and Dr.Murchison _will_ talk about their complaints to each other! They have been exchanging prescriptions." The captain grunted and eyed her keenly.
"I want you to come in and give us a little music," he said, shortly.
Kate nodded.

"What is your favourite music, Mr.Hardy ?" she inquired, with a smile.
"Unfortunately, Mr.Hardy can't stay," said the captain, in a voice which there was no mistaking.
Hardy pulled out his watch.

"No; I must be off," he said, with a well-affected start.

"Thank you for reminding me, Captain Nugent." "I am glad to have been of service," said the other, looking his grimmest.
He acknowledged the young man's farewell with a short nod and, forgetting his sudden desire for music, continued to pace up and down with his daughter.
"What have you been saying to that--that fellow ?" he demanded, turning to her, suddenly.
Miss Nugent reflected.

"I said it was a fine evening," she replied, at last.
"No doubt," said her father.