My brother used to be able to do it before he grew so big." Claudius descended rapidly, but almost lost his hold when he saw Margaret leaning against the taffrail.

He would not have had her see him for worlds, and there she was, and she had evidently witnessed the whole affair.

Before he had reached the deck, the Duke had seen her too, and hastened to her side.

She was evidently much agitated.
"How can you allow such things ?" she said indignantly, her dark eyes flashing at him.
"I had nothing to say about it, Countess.

But he did it magnificently." Claudius had reached the deck, and eluding the compliments of Barker and Sturleson, hastened to the cuddy door, bowing to the ladies as he passed.