They left the table so quietly that few noticed their departure; but a few minutes later, as they were stepping toward the port gangway, Reyes became aware of a hand placed on his shoulder, and, turning, learned that Gale had followed them out.
“A word with you,” the reporter whispered. “It is of the utmost importance.”
The frown which came to the other’s face showed that he resented this intrusion, but something in Gale’s manner caused him to draw back and allow Virginia to go on alone.
“What is it?” he demanded sharply. “I must say, señor, that I am beginning to grow very weary of this confounded interference——”
“Where are you going?” the News man cut him short. “Tell me quickly: Has she fooled you into going away with her?”
“Fooled me!” The Baracoan’s frown deepened into a scowl. “I do not understand,” he said haughtily. “Miss Throgmorton is feeling indisposed and I am taking her home.”
To his astonishment and indignation, Gale received this with an ironical laugh. “I guess it is about time to open your eyes,” he said. “I am wise now to the whole game.” He whispered a few words in the army officer’s ear. What he said caused the latter to give a start of surprise.
“This is astounding!” Reyes muttered. “Are you sure?”
“Of course I am not sure,” the reporter replied. “But you’ll see that I am right.”
Virginia, noting her escort’s absence from her side, turned at the head of the gangway, and a worried look came to her face as she saw with whom he was talking.