e general opinion among the French
officers was, that the English would not attack them, while he,
accustomed to hold the navy somewhat in contempt, persuaded himself that
they would not dare to make the attempt.

The evening had passed much as others had done. Edda enjoyed it the
more that Hernan was absent. The captain, as he had been accustomed,
brought his guitar into the cabin, and played and sang a number of
Spanish airs, and persuaded Donna Julia to do the same. Father Mendez,
as he well could when he had the will, made himself very agreeable by
describing many places he had visited, and narrating a number of
anecdotes. Even Colonel Armytage entered freely into conversation, and
he and Father Mendez soon became on very friendly terms. The marquis
was the only person who was in ill temper. He sat aloof from the rest
of the party, and refused all invitations to join in the conversation.
The truth was, he had begun to suspect that Pedro Alvarez and Father
Mendez were plotting against him. He felt himself in the power of
Tacon, whom he knew would give them all the information they required,
while he looked with a suspicious eye on the young lieutenant, whose
likeness to Don Hernan Escalante had forcibly struck him. His daughter
only fancied that he was unhappy at being a prisoner; but as she was in
very pleasant society, and was treated with all courtesy and kindness,
she had no cause to complain.

Some of the other officers of the ship came in, cards were introduced,
and the marquis was tempted to play. Colonel Armytage joined him. It
was a somewhat incongruous collection of people. With music and
conversation the evening passed rapidly away, and the party continued
together till a much later hour than usual.

The captain handed his guitar to Donna Julia with a gallant bow.

"One more song, sweet lady," he said. "It is seldom we seamen enjoy the
delightful harmony you have afforded us this evening."

Donna Julia took the instrument, and running her fingers over the cords
commenced a low and plaintive air. Her voice was sweet, but not strong,
though it was sufficient to fill the cabin, and to rivet the attention
of all present. The air was sad and plaintive, and from the pathos with
which she sung, it showed too clearly her own feelings. It is wonderful
how music unlocks the heart, and melts the long pent-up stream. Not a
sound but that sweet voice was heard. The seamen on their watch
overhead s