CHAPTER XII.
"DON'T BE CRUEL TO ME."
"Did you bring my wrap,—the gray velvet?"
The man addressed slightly raised his arm to draw attention to the fact that he was carrying a garment.
"Oh, thanks. Is there anywhere to go this morning?"
"I thought we were to sit somewhere in the old fort. You signified a wish to that effect."
"Did I? If I've signified a wish, do let's carry it into effect. We will sit on the water-battery, then; though I've noticed that only lovers sit there."
The man made no reply. The two walked across the Plaza, mounted the sea-wall, and were presently established on the battery, apparently absorbed in gazing across the Matanzas River out towards the open sea.
"Shall we play we are lovers?" asked Prudence, after awhile, turning to her husband with a smile.
"I'm afraid the attempt will be too great a strain upon you," answered Lawrence; but he smiled back, and leaned a trifle nearer his companion.