The tide had turned, and the long billowy swells carried them swiftly back towards the land; a belated seagull floated by them, a sound of singing came fitfully on the breeze from the shore.
"They are practising the anthem at Brynseion Chapel," said the girl, anxious to change the conversation; "they will wonder where I am."
"And I," said Hugh, "have been absent twice lately. I will go there at once, and make it all right for thee; thou wouldst like to go home to thy mother?"
"Yes," was all she said.
When they reached the shore Hugh once more took her in his arms to lift her from the boat, and placing her gently on the sands, he grasped her hand, and for a moment retained it in his own.
"At least wilt not deceive me, lass?"
"Deceive you, Mishteer! Oh! no, indeed; you are the Mishteer, and I am only Gwladys Price, but I never could break my word."
"Must I wait longer for the kiss that I am longing for?" he said.
She bent her head and made no answer; but she did not run away, and Hugh, gently drawing her towards him, imprinted a passionate kiss on her full red lips.
"Shall I come with thee, or wilt go alone?"