by his master's presence,
snuggled up close to her breast, and made the most of his comfortable
quarters. And now, while Courtenay stroked Joey with one hand, he
placed the other on Elsie's shoulder. What a plight for a frightened
maid who wished to escape! Of course, because she wished that some one
would come to her help, the deck was practically deserted. Certainly,
Mr. Boyle did appear at the after end of the corridor; but he seemed to
remember something strong and urgent which the crew ought to hear, and
he turned back.

And here was Courtenay speaking again, speaking in the slow and
definite way of a man who was determined that there should be no
lingering doubt as to his meaning.

"I want you to listen to me, Elsie," he said, with a passionate
intensity that stilled the rising storm in her bosom. "Doctor
Christobal may have pleaded his own cause already. It is not for me to
cavil at him for doing that. But I cannot lose you without a word.
Whether you marry him or me, or neither of us, I shall love you for
ever. I want you to know that. It is no new discovery to me. I think
my heart went out to you when I carried you in my arms through the
gale, and since that hour you and I have had experiences denied to most
men and women ere they reach the conclusion that they are fit mates for
the voyage of life. Do you feel that, sweetheart? Have we known each
other ten days, or ten years?"

His face was very near to hers now. His arm had encroached so far that
it was around her neck. It was quite dark where they stood in the
shadow of the bridge. He could not see the tears in her eyes, but he
heard her broken answer:

"Are you--quite--fair--in using such words to me?"

"Fair, Elsie! 'Fair' to whom?"

"Because--oh, how can I tell you? Are you free to--to speak to me in
this way?"

"Elsie, I am pledged to no other woman, if that is what you mean. Who
has been telling you otherwise?"

"No one. Indeed, indeed, I alone am to blame. You will be angry with
me, but I could not help it."

She could say no more. If she had uttered another syllable just then
she would have broken down completely. Joey did not seem to need any
further fondling; hence, having a hand at liberty, so to speak,
Courtenay placed it under her chin, and lifted her unresisting lips to
his. He kissed her twice, and laughed softly, with a glad confidence
that sent a wave of delight coursing through Elsie's veins.

"Sweetheart