She preferred, she said,
to explore the quaint old town. Mr. Wilders and one of the Governor's
aides-de-camps eagerly volunteered to escort, but she declined.
"Many thanks, but I'd rather go alone. I shall be more independent."
"You'll lose your way; or be arrested by the garrison police and taken
before the town major as a suspicious character, loitering too near
the fortifications," said the Governor, who thought it a capital joke.
"No one will interfere with me, I think," she replied, quietly. "I am
quite able to take care of myself."
She looked it just then, with her firm-set lips and flashing eyes.
"Mrs. Wilders will have her own way," said her husband. "It's best to
give in to her. That's what I've found," he added, with a laugh, in
which all joined.
When the horses were brought out for the parade, Mrs. Wilders, still
persisting in her intention of walking alone, said, gaily--
"Well, gentlemen, while you are playing at soldiers I shall go off on
my own devices. If I get tired, Bill, I shall go back to the yacht."
And with this Mrs. Wilders walked off.
"Here, sergeant!" cried the general to his orderly, McKay. "I don't
want you; you may be of use to Mrs. Wilders. Go after her."
"Shall I report myself to her, sir?"
"I don't advise you, my man. She'd send you about your business
double-quick.
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