“An apology? Do you beg for forgiveness?�
“No—yes—anything,� I finished in confusion.
“I will not listen. I wish to convince you of the enormity of what you have done, the grossness of your presumption. I will give you time for quiet reflection, sir.�
“I am convinced already,� I urged hurriedly.
“So easily,� she mocked.
“Madam, if you love life and honor, I pray you hear me. It is not of myself I think but of you. You are in grave peril,� returned I with the utmost seriousness.
“What peril?�
There was a note of alarm in her voice in spite of her effort to be indifferent. I seized upon its promise eagerly.
“The men of the ship, they are not what they should be. Captain Matthews is alone. Pimball is a villain. I trust no one but—�
“And is that the plea on which you seek your freedom?�