They were serious and had almost a look of pain.
"I am sorry, Mr.Whitney," she said, simply; "but it would be very unjust if I led you to hope that I could ever regard you other than as an esteemed friend." "Pardon me for troubling you," he said, gently.

"Believe me always your friend, and forget that I ever asked for more than friendship," and, releasing her hand, he passed on to the others.
The final adieus were spoken; Ralph Mainwaring and his son, accompanied by the attorney, went ashore; and Miss Carleton, not caring just then to meet the curious glances of her companions, walked slowly towards the forward part of the deck.

She had gone but a few steps, however, when she caught sight of the familiar figure of Mr.Merrick at a little distance, in conversation with a tall, slender man, with dark, piercing eyes.

He was speaking rapidly in low tones, but his usually non-committal face wore an expression of unmistakable satisfaction.

Suddenly he turned and walked swiftly in Miss Carleton's direction.