for a dark curtain cloud to be drawn across that
blazing lamp and the scintillating stars reflected in the water like
sequins shining through blue gauze.

Midnight was near, and the yellow lights of the town were fewer than
they had been. The quay was quiet and deserted, and the Ile Nou was a
black shape in the translucent glitter of the water. On the _Bella Cuba_
all was very still, and each whisper of the little waves that lapped
against the side of the yacht came distinctly to Virginia's ears.

The Countess de Mattos had not appeared at dinner, but had sent excuses,
her head being much worse. But it was Virginia's opinion that, once out
of sight of Noumea, the lady intended to be convalescent. Kate Gardiner
also was in retirement, and had for once shown temper even to Virginia;
but Dr. Grayle's report of the day was reassuring, and as Kate had had no
opportunity of doing harm, even if she had wished it, she and her
grievances were dismissed from Virginia's mind in these supreme moments.

Her eyes were straining after a small electric launch, which was already
distant. Virginia could not look away, and still she tried to persuade
herself that she could not see the little black gliding thing distinctly,
because, if it was plainly visible to her, it must be so to other eyes
also--if eyes on shore were waking and watching now.

Suddenly the boat disappeared behind a buttress of rock silhouetted on
the silver track of the moon, and at the same instant the yacht's anchor
began slowly to be hauled up.

Virginia knew what that meant. To-night's work was for Roger and George,
not for her; but she had each detail of the programme at her fingers'
ends--indeed, had helped to arrange it. When the launch had gone a
certain distance from the _Bella Cuba_, on its stealthy way toward the
Ile Nou, the yacht's captain--an Englishman, discreet and expert--had
orders to follow slowly. The start had not been made earlier, because it
was desirable that town and prison should be asleep, and the danger of
discovery minimized. If the yacht were seen moving in the night suspicion
would be aroused, for leaving the harbour of Noumea is a perilous
undertaking except between sunrise and sunset; yet she must move, and
follow the boat like one of the great black sharks swimming with grim
expectancy behind her, lest the little bark should be overtaken in case
of alarm and pursuit.

No explanation had been given to Captain Gorst, who neither need