Soon, however, the effect of the sails made itself felt; the yacht was a good sea-boat, and when she fairly heeled over on the port-tack and began to cut the waves again, the ladies downstairs agreed that sailing was much pleasanter and steadier than steam, and that the next time they crossed in a yacht they would like to sail all the way.

But in spite of their courage, and notwithstanding that they were greatly reassured by the explanations of Mr.Barker, who made the nature of the accident quite clear to them, they had been badly shaken, and soon retired to their respective staterooms.

In the small confusion of getting to their feet to leave the cabin it chanced that Claudius found himself helping Margaret to the door.

The recollection of her touch and look when the accident happened was strong in him yet and gave him courage.
"Good-night, Countess," he said; "shall I have the pleasure of reading with you to-morrow ?" "Perhaps," she answered; "if it is very fine.

Fate has decreed that we should have plenty of time." He tried to catch a glance as she left his arm, but she would not, and they were parted for the night.