The yacht was christened "Queen Philippa"; and it was decided that, when the end of the season had come, the duke should take his beautiful wife to Verdun Royal, and, after having installed her there, should go at once to sea.

He had invited a party of friends--all yachtsmen like himself--and they had agreed to take "Queen Philippa" to the Mediterranean, there to cruise during the autumn months.
As it was settled so it was carried out; before the week had ended the duke, duchess, and Madeline were all at Verdun Royal.

Perhaps the proud young wife had never realized before how completely her husband loved her.

This temporary parting was to him a real pain.
A few days before it took place he began to look pale and ill.

She saw that he could not eat, that he did not sleep or rest.