This pier runs down the side of the river, and a long way into the sea.

It had begun to grow dark, and Alec had to take great care of Kate amongst the tramways, coils of rope, and cables that crossed their way.

At length they got clear of these, and found themselves upon the pier, built of great rough stones--lonely and desert, tapering away into the dark, its end invisible, but indicated by the red light far in front.
"It is a rough season of the year for a lady to come by sea," said Alec.
"Bessie is very fond of the sea," answered Kate.

"I hope you will like her, Mr Forbes." "Do you want me to like her better than you ?" rejoined Alec.

"Because if you do--" "Look how beautiful that red light is on the other side of the river," interrupted Kate.