He thrust a telegram into Neil’s hand, which read: “To join your ship at once. Imperative!”
“Yes; and I cannot go with matters like this,” cried Beck.
“But you must. Your position as an officer is at stake.”
“I can’t help it. Neil Elthorne, put yourself in my place. How can I go and leave Isabel at such a time?”
“What good could you do if you stayed?”
“It would help her. She would know I was near. I can’t go and leave her knowing what I do about that fellow Burwood.”
Neil looked at him fixedly for a few moments. “Don’t play the boy,” he said at last sternly.
“No; I am going to play the man,” cried Beck. “Isabel and I have been girl and boy together, and our affection has gradually strengthened till I know that she loves me as well as I love her.”
“Yes, perhaps so, my lad, but you heard her father’s decision, and you can do no more.”
“Yes; I heard his decision,” said the young sailor sturdily, “and I am not going to stand by and see her given up to that man! Why, Neil, it would kill her.”