and seeing the object of his thoughts so near,
and in company with a soldier, his face underwent a series of expressions.
But it was really Dexie, though he could scarcely believe his own eyesight,
and he was at her side in a moment.

"Why, Dexie! where have you been? We were afraid there had been an
accident."

A hundred questions were on his lips, but the presence of the soldier kept
them back.

"I have been in danger, but there has been no accident, Lancy; and you must
thank this gentleman for bringing me safely home."

As the memory of it all passed before her, her self-control gave way, and
covering her face with her hands she burst into tears.

This was rather embarrassing to Lancy, who was all in the dark in regard to
Dexie's movements. He was told that she had gone off with Hugh, and here
she was in company with a soldier, and in tears.

"She will be all right in a few minutes," the officer replied, in answer to
Lancy's surprised looks. "She has gone through enough to try a strong
woman's nerves. Wait here; I'll get that cab, if it is empty, and you can
take her home at once," and he darted up the wharf at a rapid pace.

"Where is Hugh?" said Lancy hurriedly; "not drowned, Dexie?"

"No; not that I know of," she said, choking back her tears.

"Then, what does all this mean? How came you to be out with the soldier,
Dexie? I don't know what to think."

"I will tell you presently, but that soldier saved my life. Thank him for
me, Lancy, for I cannot say enough."

The arrival of the cab prevented further explanation, and Dexie allowed
herself to be seated in it without a word.

"I do not yet know what has happened," said Lancy, holding out his hand to
the soldier, "but I thank you very heartily for your kindness. Jump into
the cab with us, as far as your way lies, and tell me what this is all
about."

As they took their seats, Lancy turned to Dexie, who had almost recovered
her composure, saying:

"You have not yet introduced me to your friend. How shall I call him?"

Dexie held up the card she had in her hand, saying: "I do not know myself,
and it is too dark to read."

"I am Lieutenant Wilbur, at your service, and I feel happy in being the
means of rescuing the 'American Warbler' from a very unpleasant situation."

"I am Launcelot Gurney. Now, will one of you tell me what has happened? You
have not been capsized, Dexie, for your clothes are not wet; but you have
been gone since early afternoon,