"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.
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