“Welcome to our island home!” he added, as he opened the door and conducted the guest into the hall, and through that into the parlor.
“Thanks,” said the young stranger, removing his cap, and gazing around upon one of the pleasantest summer rooms he had ever seen in his life. Straw matting was on the floor; snow-white curtains at the vine-shaded windows; fresh flowers on the mantelshelf and on the tables, and coolness, comfort and beauty everywhere.
Justin handed him a chair.
Judith ran out to prepare refreshments.
When they were all seated, the young lieutenant said:
“Everything I see around you increases my astonishment and curiosity. You seem really to be comfortable and permanently colonized here!”
“Heaven forbid!” exclaimed Justin, quickly. “We have been here over two years, and passed a not unhappy period. But we have had enough of it, and want to get home.”
“But—how—came—you—here?” inquired the young man, slowly and emphatically.
“Ah! you have really asked the question at last. I thought I should bring you to it!” laughed Justin. Then, growing suddenly grave, as he thought of the shipwreck, he said:
“You remember the ill-fated Sultana?”