"Old Ironsides"
The continuity of his thought was suddenly broken. A beautiful hand, of exquisite touch, sunburned, but shapely, delicate, but strong, was laid lightly on his shoulder. He glanced down at it, thrilled!
"Captain Barry," exclaimed a fresh, clear young voice, which in perfection matched the hand, "have you looked to the comfort of our guest? Oh, sir, I beg your pardon. I thought——" she cried in dismay, as Revere rose to his feet and bowed low before her.
"May I answer your question? He has, as these clothes, which account for your mistake, will witness."
"And are you well, sir? Are you none the worse for——?"
"Much the better, I should say," answered the young man, "since my adventure has gained me the privilege of your acquaintance."
"You might have had that without risking your life, sir," she responded, smiling.
"Not without risking my heart, I am sure," he replied, gallantly.
"What a strange way you have of addressing people!" she continued, looking at him so frankly and so innocently that he felt ashamed of himself. "Do you always talk in that way?"
"Well, not always," he replied, laughing; "but I jest——"