‘What business had a wretched woman like that to interfere with him? Just like her imperence!’ said the majority.
One or two, more curious than the rest, followed the woman, with a view to learn further particulars; but she was, for a wonder, reticent. She was not Sall—but Sall’s friend and ally. Not if wild horses were to drag her in twain would she disclose her secret. It was one between Sir Watkin and herself alone.
Sir Watkin rejoined his friends, trusting that they had not been eye-witnesses of his adventure.
Just at that moment he had no wish to have scandal or mystery attaching to his name. Hitherto, his appearance had been quite a success, and the British merchant and his daughter were duly impressed with the respect and attention he had everywhere commanded.
‘We’ve missed you much, Sir Watkin,’ said the lady in a tone which flattered his vanity and raised his hopes.
‘Yes, the crowd cruelly separated us for a few minutes.’
‘A few minutes!’ said the lady; ‘it seemed to me a long time.’
‘You make me proud,’ said the Baronet. ‘It is something to be missed by one who has always so many admirers.’
‘You flatter me, Sir Watkin. But, seriously, what was all the fuss about?’
‘Only a tipsy woman.’