"No," I answered. "I think it will go in a few moments."
"Will you inquire if my baggage has been brought on and have the smaller trunk sent down here as soon as possible?"
"You ought to come on deck and see the start," I said. "That is one of the interesting things of a voyage like this."
"Oh, no!" she said. "I am feeling faint—I don't know what is the matter—doubtless I shall be better in a few minutes. I am going to lie down and see if that makes me more comfortable. Go on deck and amuse yourself. I shall try to get a nap."
Seeing that I hesitated she looked pleadingly into my eyes.
"Please go!" she said.
I went, swallowing my disappointment. The boat had commenced to move and I witnessed the usual waving handkerchiefs, tearful eyes, loud good-bys, and that sort of thing. The elderly gentleman with his well-formed, matrimonially-inclined lady was apparently enjoying the scene, for both of them looked happy. Mr. Wesson smiled as I approached and uttered some commonplace remark, as he made room for me by his side. Each moment the distance between the Madiana and her late moorings widened; presently we were well out in the river and proceeding down the Bay.
Wesson suggested a walk on the deck and as we were both well wrapped up I saw no objection. I remarked what a wonderful thing it was, how soon our heavy clothing would be discarded. Ice and snow to-day and summer garments day after to-morrow.
"That is due to the Gulf Stream, of course," he replied.
"Yes. In two days any passenger not actually an invalid can bathe with pleasure in water pumped from the ocean."