"It seems ten hours ago—ten days," whispered Kate dreamily.
"My dear children," said Trif, although Kate was only three years younger than she and Jermyn was older by several years, "you ought to be the happiest people alive, except Phil and I; but to keep the matter to ourselves for a while, if only to divert attention and prevent impertinent curiosity while Kate is down here—you know how some of the best of people will talk—don't tell any one—although I'm sure that I must tell Fenie, who can't help telling Harry, but no one else need know."
"But, my dear madam," said Jermyn, once more rising and peering earnestly in every direction, "your interesting daughter already knows. I do wish I knew where to look for her."
"Trixy knows? How on earth did she learn?"
"Tell her—if you can," said Kate to Jermyn.
"I am sure that you would do it more gracefully," said Jermyn.
"Oh," began Kate, "we were walking along the beach, talking about—never mind what. I hadn't the faintest idea how far we were from the hotel, and the first thing I knew we were near the lighthouse, and I didn't know that any one else was anywhere near us—indeed, I didn't think. Just then Mr. Jermyn—oh, the artfulness of some men—Mr. Jermyn—he——"
"He suddenly recognized Miss Trewman as his superior officer for all time, and he made the salute which custom has sanctioned for such occasions," interrupted Jermyn.
"Very gracefully done," murmured Kate with a tender look.
"What?—the salute? Your remark encourages me to——"