"I am charmed to have the pleasure of meeting the marquis," responded the girl, smiling and courtesying deeply.
"The pleasure and the honor are mine, mademoiselle," responded O'Neill, fully entering upon the comedy of the moment.
"And," continued the admiral, "as my son, Major Edward Coventry, has sent me word he will be here shortly, you can renew your acquaintance with him."
It was as if he had exploded a bomb-shell in the room.
"Edward! Coming here?" cried Elizabeth, her voice filled with terror at the unfortunate event, which she vainly endeavored to conceal. "What for? Why did you not tell me?"
"He desired to surprise you, my dear," answered the admiral, wondering again at her agitation; "you know your wedding takes place next week."
"Ah, a wedding!" said O'Neill, starting and looking at Elizabeth. "Mademoiselle is then to marry?"
"Yes, your friend Major Coventry," replied the old man,--"an old engagement."
"I refused to marry him for a year, and for six months more. I waited all that time. There was no word," she said slowly to O'Neill, as if each word were wrung from her by his intent look, her pale cheeks flooded with color.
"Have you taken leave of your senses, Elizabeth?" continued the admiral, in great surprise; "of what interest to a stranger is your--er--maidenly hesitation?"