She well knew its grave importance.
"In other words," she said, "I must be seen by them dressed only in male clothing ?" "Yes, as a last resource, that is.

I have some hope that they may not discover our whereabouts owing to the precautions we have adopted.
Perched up there on the ledge we will be profoundly uncomfortable, but that will be nothing if it secures our safety." She did not reply at once.

Then she said musingly--"Forty-four days! Surely there has been ample time to scour the China Sea from end to end in search of us?
My father would never abandon hope until he had the most positive knowledge that the _Sirdar_ was lost with all on board." The sailor, through long schooling, was prepared with an answer--"Each day makes the prospect of escape brighter.

Though I was naturally disappointed this morning, I must state quite emphatically that our rescue may come any hour." Iris looked at him steadily.
"You wear a solemn face for one who speaks so cheerfully," she said.
"You should not attach too great significance to appearances.

The owl, a very stupid bird, is noted for its philosophical expression." "Then we will strive to find wisdom in words.