“You are the only woman aboard this vessel, but that need make no difference. You have but to touch the button yonder to secure the services of the steward, who will serve you, at any time, with anything you require, which he possesses.
“And now, Miss Harlan, I will bid you good night. Until some time to-morrow, at least, you will not be again intruded upon.”
He turned swiftly and would have disappeared through the door had she not held up one hand in a gesture to detain him.
“Wait,” she said simply.
“Yes?” he said, in reply.
“You have convinced me,” she said, “that you intend me no immediate personal harm.”
He bowed his head, without replying in words.
“And I doubt,” she continued, “if you realize the incalculable and terrible injury you inflict upon me with every additional moment I pass aboard this vessel.”
“I have taken that into consideration,” he replied calmly. “I know how you view it. It is too late now, however, to remedy it. If it were not too late, I would set you back aboard the Goalong. As it is——”