y the searchlight thrown upon her, had no
fear of being shot at again. She moved slowly northwards, and in the
early morning was overtaken by two British cruisers. An officer came on
board, declared the French prize crew prisoners of war, and was informed
by the third officer, who was now in command, of the events of the last
twenty-four hours.

While the British squadron followed the French ships the Caledonia,
only travelling eight knots an hour, made for Naples, which was reached
without further incidents. The passengers were disembarked, the large
sum of money was deposited in the Bank of Naples to the credit of
the English Government, and only the cargo of cotton, carpets, and
embroidered silkstuffs was left on board.

The Kennedys and Mrs. Irwin went to the Hotel de la Riviera. They were
accompanied by Heideck, who intended to stay only one day at Naples, and
then to take the through train to Berlin.

Although he had said nothing to her about going to Berlin Edith
suspected his intention. A few hours later she spoke to him in the
reading-room, where he was eagerly studying the papers.

"Any news of importance?"

"Everything is new to me. Up to the present we have only had a glimpse
of what has been going on; these papers have given me a comprehensive
view of events for the first time."

"And now, of course, your only desire is to see your colours again? I
know that it is only ambition that guides you."

"Can you reproach an officer for that?"

"Yes, if he forgets humanity as well. But make your mind easy, I shall
not attempt to hinder you. I will not stand in the way of your ambition,
but neither will I sacrifice myself to it."

"Certainly you should not do so. We shall be happy when the war is over.
I will be as true to you as to my duty. If I return alive my existence
shall be devoted to making you happy."

"Love is like a bird; it must not be allowed too much freedom. Remember,
I have always told you I will never leave you."

"But, dearest Edith, that is utterly impossible! Have you any idea what
war is like?"

"I should have thought I had seen enough of it."

"Yes, in India and on sea. But in Europe war is carried on somewhat
differently. Every seat in the trains is calculated exactly; it is the
same in barracks, cantonments, and bivouacs. There is no room for a
woman. What would my comrades say of me if I appeared in your company?"

"You can say I am your wife."

"But, Edith, the idea is no