that all
four will long interpose between him and the succession," said Lord
Lydstone, with a pleasant laugh.

"I don't wish you any harm, of course; still it is as I say, and my
son--"

"Aged two, and at present in England at nurse."

"--May be the future Earl of Essendine."

"He shan't be, if I can prevent it!" cried Lord Lydstone, gaily; "you
may rely on that. But, I say, here is a smart gig coming off from the
shore. I believe the Governor has sent his own barge for you. Here,
Bill! I say, Bill!"

General Wilders came aft.

"You had better put on your best clothes, general; they are coming to
fetch you in state."

"I suppose, on this occasion only, you will wear a hat, Bill?" said
Mrs. Wilders.

"I wish you would go down and get ready, my dear; we ought not to keep
the gig," said the general, as he himself went below to dress.

"I am not so sure I shall go on shore at all," replied his wife.

"No!" cried Lord Lydstone. "Throw the general over, and stay on board
with me."

"That would be too great penance," said Mrs. Wilders, as she moved
towards the companion-ladder. "I've had enough of your lordship for
one day."

Lydstone got up, looking rather vexed, and followed her across the
deck. When he was quite close to her side he whispered with suppressed
but manifest feeling--

"Why do you torture me so? Sometimes I think you care for me;
sometimes that you hate and detest me. What am I think?"

"What you choose," she answered, in a low, quick voice, evidently much
displeased. "I have given you no right to speak to me in this way. Let
me pass, or I shall appeal to my lawful protector!"

Presently Mrs. Wilders reappeared, dressed to perfection in some cool
light fabric, serene and smiling to everyone but Lord Lydstone. She
was especially gracious to young Mr. Wilders, who had come off in the
Governor's gig, and had been cordially welcomed by his brother.

"Another cousin," said the general, introducing him. He was now in
uniform--the general--in uniform to suit his own fancy rather than the
regulations. The only orthodox articles of apparel were his twisted
general's scimitar and a forage-cap with a broad gold band. His coat
and waistcoat were of white cloth; he had a wide crimson sash round
his waist, and his lower limbs were encased in hunting-breeches and
long boots. "Anastasius, one of the Royal Picts."

"All soldiers, you Wilders, all--except one." This was specially
intended to annoy Lydsto