CHAPTER XVIII.
The yacht of Mr.Conyers, one of the richest commoners in England--a yacht fitted as surely no yacht ever before had been fitted--was for sale.

He was a wealthy man, but to keep that sea-palace afloat was beyond his means.

The Duchess of Hazlewood was sole mistress of a large fortune in her own right; the duke had made most magnificent settlements upon her.

She had a large sum of money at her command; and the idea suddenly occurred to her to purchase Mr.Conyers' yacht unknown to her husband and present him with it.

He was fond of yachting--it was his favorite amusement.