men. Among other things, they chanced to say that Cadman's gun was
missing, and that the poor widow can swear to it. I asked if any one had
searched for it; and Mordacks said no, it would be hopeless. I told them
that if I were only free to show myself and choose my time, I would lay
my life upon finding it, if thrown away (as it most likely was) in some
part of that unlucky cave. Mordacks caught at this idea, and asked me a
number of questions, and took down my answers; for no one else knows the
cave as I do. I would run all risks myself, and be there to do it, if
time suited. But only certain tides will serve, even with the best of
weather; and there may be no such tide for months--I mean tide, weather,
and clear water combined, as they must be for the job. Therefore I am
not to wait, but go about my other business, and leave this to Mordacks,
who loves to be captain of everything. Mr. Mordacks talked of a
diving-bell, and some great American inventions; but nothing of the kind
can be used there, nor even grappling-irons. The thing must not be heard
of even, until it has been accomplished. Whatever is done, must be done
by a man who can swim and dive as I can, and who knows the place almost
as well. I have told him where to find the man, when the opportunity
comes for it; and I have shown my better father, Robin Cockscroft, the
likely spot. So now I have nothing more to do with that."

"How wonderfully you can throw off cares!" his sweetheart answered,
softly. "But I shall be miserable till I know what happens. Will they
let me be there? Because I understand so much about tides, and I can
hold my tongue."

"That you have shown right well, my Mary; but your own sense will tell
you that you could not be there. Now one thing more: here is a ring, not
worthy--although it is the real stuff--to go upon your precious hand,
yet allow me to put it on; no, not there; upon your wedding finger. Now
do you know what that is for?"

"For me, I suppose," she answered, blushing with pleasure and
admiration; "but it is too good, too beautiful, too costly."

"Not half good enough. Though, to tell you the truth, it can not be
matched easily; any more than you can. But I know where to get those
things. Now promise me to wear it, when you think of me; and the one
habit will confirm the other. But the more important part is this, and
the last thing for me to say to you. Your father still hates my name, I
fear. Tell him every word I have