Beatrix came on deck to find everyone ready. Franklin met her. He looked as imperturbable as usual but his heart was going nine to the dozen. "You're not going with the others, if you don't mind," he said. "Your things shall be put into the smaller launch. I want to take you ashore myself."
"Highly honored," said Beatrix gaily. "Will all my baggage get into the other launch?"
"Easily," said Franklin.
"What a lot there is of it,—enough for a regular honeymoon!"
"Yes. I was thinking so.... Excuse me while I say good-bye to the ladies." He went over to Mrs. Larpent, giving a quick glance to see that the first officer was on the watch.
"Good-bye," said Mrs. Larpent, softly. "I hate leaving the Galatea—and you."
"Thanks. I'm awfully sorry too."
"I shall probably go and stay with friends at Southampton but a letter sent to my apartment will be forwarded if at any time you make up another party and need a fourth for bridge."
"Oh, that's splendid! Good-bye then."
She held his hand, gave him a look that was intended to convey everything that she would have said if they had been alone,—and did,—and then went down, was handed into the launch by Mr. Jones in his best manner and took her place.