If you ladies will come with me for a couple of hours' cruise, I need scarcely say how charmed I shall be." He was looking at Violet as he spoke, and she made instant and impulsive reply.

"Of course we will! It will be too delicious--the very thing I was longing for.

What lucky chance sent you our way, I wonder ?" She gave him her hand, which he took with a gallantry that sent a quiver of disgust through Olga.

With a sharp effort she spoke, hurriedly, nervously, but very much to the point.
"It's very good of you, but we can't possibly come.

We must be getting back.