voice, as I have said, was of fine quality though rather weak, and she
sang several of the popular songs of the day with exquisite expression.
She was so warmly applauded that she blushed and sang again until it was
evident to all she was tired.

"Now," said she as she rose from the stool and looked at Mike, "you must
sing for us, for I know you can."

"Certainly, Mike, show them what you can do in that line," joined Alvin,
and Chester was equally urgent.

He objected and held back, but when Mrs. Friestone joined in the request
he rose reluctantly and went to the instrument.

And straightway came the surprise of the evening.

CHAPTER XIII

AN INCIDENT ON SHIPBOARD

Among the passengers on one of the most magnificent of ocean steamers
that crossed the Atlantic during the summer of which I have made mention,
was a famous prima donna coming to the United States to fulfil a contract
which would net her many thousand dollars. This notable artist who
possessed a most winning personality as well as great beauty was easily
the most popular passenger aboard the steamer on that memorable trip
across the ocean.

One evening this lady was strolling over the promenade deck under the
escort of her brother. The night was unusually calm, with a bright moon
in the sky. The mighty throbbing structure glided over the sleeping
billows as across a millpond, and all were in fine spirits, for they were
nearing home, and that dreadful affliction _mal de mer_ had troubled only
the abnormally sensitive. Neither the brother nor the prima donna had
felt the slightest effects.

The two were chatting of many things, but nothing of any importance, when
she suddenly stopped with an exclamation of surprise.

"Listen!" she added when they had stood motionless for a few seconds; "do
you hear that?"

"I do; it is wonderful."

It was the voice of some one singing "Mavourneen," that sweet Irish
melody which has charmed and will always charm thousands. It came from
the second class section, which was separated from the first by two
gates. These marked the "impassable chasm," so far as the less favored
were concerned, though of course the first class passengers were free to
wander whither they chose.

The lady and gentleman walked to the barrier and looked across.

"There he is!" said the man, in a low tone.

"Where?" asked his companion, with eager curiosity.

"To the right, in front of that group which has gathered round him."