And you, Dr.Cumberledge ?" "I follow Miss Wade's lead," I answered, in my most solemn tone, with an impressive bow.

"I, too, am travelling for instruction and amusement only; and if it would give Lady Meadowcroft a greater sense of security to have a duly qualified practitioner in her suite, I shall be glad on the same terms to swell your party.

I will pay my own way; and I will allow you to name any nominal sum you please for your claim on my medical attendance, if necessary.

I hope and believe, however, that our presence will so far reassure our prospective patient as to make our post in both cases a sinecure." Three minutes later Lady Meadowcroft rushed on deck and flung her arms impulsively round Hilda.

"You dear, good girl!" she cried; "how sweet and kind of you! I really COULDN'T have landed if you hadn't promised to come with us.