"Miss Rose Flowers, my dear sir, is now Mrs. Slydell Stillwater, the—"
"Married!" interrupted all voices except that of the Iron King, who bent his heavy gray brows as he gazed upon his son.
"Stuff and nonsense! How did you know anything about her marriage?" demanded old Aaron Rockharrt.
"In the simplest and most natural way, sir. I saw it in the newspapers, about three years ago. And, in point of fact, I forgot it and should never have thought of it again but for your inquiries about the young woman this morning. Her husband is Captain Slydell Stillwater, captain and half owner of the East Indiaman Queen of Sheba," replied Mr. Fabian.
"Poor child! To be parted from her husband more than half her time. Is Captain Stillwater now at sea?"
"I think he must be, sir, as there has hardly been time for his return since he sailed soon after his marriage."
"Do you know where Mrs. Stillwater lives?"
"I do not, sir; but I might find out by inquiring of some mutual acquaintance."
"Do so. And, Mrs. Rockharrt," the King added, turning to his little old wife, "you will write a note to Mrs. Stillwater, inviting her to join our party for a summer tour, and as our guest, remember. Fabian, you will see that the note reaches the lady in time."
"I will do my best, sir," said Mr. Fabian.