But, look here, keep it all dark from old Finch!" And he seemed bursting with the importance and pleasure of his secret.

"You go down to your tea, may dears; Ay ain't going to be a selfish old uncle.

No, no, go along with you, both of you, and send old Finch up to me.

But look here!" he called after them, in a hoarse whisper, "mum's the word!" The sun shone brilliantly, and the weather seemed to repent of its late burst of temper.

Never had there been such a lovely September! Never had the harbour glistened so brightly in the sunshine, and never since he had broken his leg had the captain laughed so heartily or enjoyed himself so thoroughly as he did during the fortnight which followed, when Cardo read to him out of the newspaper and Valmai sang at her work about the house.
Captain Owen came in every day with news of the repairs.
"Well, Mr.Wynne," he said one morning, "I am happy to tell you we shall sail to-morrow afternoon." Cardo's heart sank, and Valmai turned very pale.
"Your cabin is being refitted to-day, and I shall be glad if you can come on board by four o'clock to-morrow afternoon.