iversified by small, marshy
islands, similar to this we occupied, possibly cloven from the mainland
by some eccentricity of current. Occasionally I distinguished openings
into lagoons, such passages into the low-lying mainland being evidenced
by the deeper green of the vegetation bordering them, as well as by
wind-twisted trees clinging despairingly to the crooked banks. East
and south swept the river, so broad our eyes could barely trace the dim
presence of a distant shore. Below, that majestic yellow flood poured
downward unbroken, although De Noyan imagined he perceived distant
spars of the Spanish fleet outlined against the blue background of the
southern sky. This may have been possible, yet to my eyes all was
blank, although I could mark pretty accurately where they should have
been.

We indulged in little conversation, reclining on the short grass,
partaking of our cold meal. The Chevalier attempted a sorry jest or
two, yet soon subsided, discovering so unresponsive an audience. It
was plain to my mind the reflections of Madame were altogether with her
father--lying dead before this hour--and this sad memory darkened even
the delight of her husband's safety. His affected gayety of manner,
and reckless speech, jarred more harshly upon her in this hour than
perhaps ever before in her life. Yet she made a pathetically brave
effort to appear of good cheer, managing to eat with us, although it
was easy to perceive the food choked her, while her eyes were blurred
with tears resolutely held in restraint. It was plain, I say, yet this
is but my thought, for I question whether De Noyan, in his careless
mood, observed her depression. He was of a nature reflecting slightly
on any save himself; past sorrow being quickly forgotten in any present
gleam of sun. As we thus ended this silent meal it occurred to me they
might require slumber more than I, and I expressed my willingness to
stand guard while they sought rest. Perhaps my face told a tale of
weariness easily read, for this proposal met immediate resistance.

"No, no, Geoffrey Benteen," exclaimed Madame impulsively, "what have I
done except sit quietly in a boat, waiting the passing of the hours?
You have been through strain and labor which wears out life. It is you
who will lie here upon my wrap, trusting me to call should need arise."

"Hush, both of you," impatiently burst in De Noyan, rising to his feet,
and gazing across the sparkling water. "A watc