"She isn't christened yet. I'm going to hold a reception on board, and Maud shall perform the ceremony. I'm calling her The Blue Moon—unless you can suggest something better." Saltash's restless look went to Maud. "I wanted to call her after you," he said lightly, "But I was afraid Jake might object."
"I think The Blue Moon is much more suitable," she answered. "Is she as rare as she sounds?"
"She's rather a fine article," he made answer. "You must come and see her—come and cruise in her if you will. She's only just off the slips. I was lucky to get her. She skims along like a bird."
"Why not call her The Blue Bird?" suggested Sheila.
He shook his head with his odd grimace. "That is a thing I can never hope to possess, Miss Melrose. The blue moon may occur once in my life if I am exceptionally virtuous, but the blue bird never. I have ceased to hope for it." His glance flashed beyond her. "Young Bunny is distinguishing himself to-day. That was a fine effort."
Everyone was clapping except Toby who was staring before her with her hands in her lap. Her blue eyes were very wide open, but they did not seem to be watching the game.
"It will fly to you, chérie," suddenly whispered a voice in her ear.
"It is already upon the wing."
A little tremor went through her, but she did not turn her head. Only after a moment she slipped a hand behind her through the back of her chair.
Wiry fingers closed upon it, gripped it, let it go. "When it comes to you, hold it fast!" came the rapid whisper. "Il ne vient pas deux fois—l'oiseau bleu."
Toby's lip trembled. She bit it desperately. Her look was strained. She did not attempt to speak.