"Sir," replied Jones, "I love a gallant foe. I shall remember you. I thank you for your courtesy."
"And I as well," added O'Neill.
"It is not the practice of the American Navy," continued Jones, "to force ships of war and bloody battles between loving hearts. Mistress Howard, fare you well; the Ranger, her officers and crew, are yours if you wish. If we should be met by another ship with you in command, we strike to you without a blow."
"Elizabeth," said Coventry, magnanimously, "can you not bid your friends good-bye?"
"I shall ever remember Captain John Paul Jones," said Lady Elizabeth, stepping forward and giving the little captain her hand to kiss, "and I shall never forget Lieutenant O'Neill."
"Will you wait one year for him?" he whispered as he bowed low over her hand.
"Come and see," she answered, and turned away.