His complaisant enjoyment was interrupted at last by the approach of the second officer, who announced that a lady wished to see Mr. Wayland.
"A lady?" asked the old man, in surprise.
"Yes, sir. She came alongside in a small boat, just now, with some natives. I stopped her at the landing, but she says she must see you at once."
"Ah! That woman again." Mr. Wayland's jaws snapped. "Tell her to begone. I refuse to see her."
"Very well, sir!" The mate turned, but Mildred said, suddenly:
"Wait! Why don't you talk to her, father?"
"That creature? I have nothing to say to her."
"Quite right!" agreed Marsh, with a cautionary glance at the speaker.
"She is up to some trick."
"She may have something really important to say to you," urged the girl.
"No."