"A captain—and so young! O, I know what you are!" exclaimed she. "You belong to the American Academy Ship."
"I do."
"But I did not see you at the emperor's ball in Paris."
"No. I was absent on duty."
"I had the pleasure of dancing with a captain on that occasion."
"I was appointed on the first of this month," explained Shuffles.
"I know your uniform very well; and I am glad to see you. I am sure you are worthy of your high position."
"Thank you, miss. You are very kind."
"I should have been at the bottom of Lake Constance at this moment, if you had been less gallant and skilful."
"Perhaps not," replied Shuffles, wondering all the time who the young lady was.