By skillful maneuvering Clif succeeded in bringing Juanita’s friend and J. Chesire-Cheshire Cate together, then he boldly walked off with the fair beauty of Lisbon.
“There is a splendid view of the river from the other side of the deck, Miss Windom,” he said, leading the way past the mainmast. “I fancied you did not care to remain with that gentleman,” he added, frankly, when they were alone. “And, anyway, I wished to tell you all about my adventure of the day before yesterday.”
“And I am eager to hear it,” replied the girl. She continued gravely: “As for Mr. Cate, I do not like him. There is something about the man that repels me. He is a business acquaintance of father, and I met him while he was dining at our home.”
“A business acquaintance,” smiled Clif. “One would never connect business with—aw!—J. Chesire-Cheshire Cate, don’t ye know.”
Juanita laughed.
“It is not what you would call business exactly,” she replied. “Father is interested in pearls. It is a hobby and he has spent a long time and a great deal of money in collecting them. He has one of the largest collections in the world, I believe. This Mr. Cate is trying to complete a certain necklace, and he came all the way from London to see if father has one of the required size. He has, but I do not think he will part with it.”
“So that is the story of Mr. Cate, eh?” said Clif. “Well, we’ll talk on a more pleasant subject.”
“Tell me about your adventure with——”
She was interrupted by a commotion at the gangway. A splendidly equipped barge, glittering with brass and polished wood, dashed alongside, and an officer fairly covered with gold lace ascended to the deck.
He was met by the executive officer and conducted to the cabin. A few minutes later he reappeared and was rowed ashore.