"You have done nothing but tear your dresses, my dear, since you have
been in Mr. Turlington's yacht. Most extraordinary! I have torn none of
mine during the whole cruise."

Natalie's dark color deepened a shade. She laughed, a little uneasily.
"I am so awkward on board ship," she replied, and turned away and shut
herself up in her cabin.

Richard Turlington produced his case of cigars.

"Now is the time," he said to Sir Joseph, "for the best cigar of the
day--the cigar after breakfast. Come on deck."

"You will join us, Launce?" said Sir Joseph.

"Give me half an hour first over my books," Launce replied. "I mustn't
let my medical knowledge get musty at sea, and I might not feel inclined
to study later in the day."

"Quite right, my dear boy, quite right."

Sir Joseph patted his nephew approvingly on the shoulder. Launce turned
away on _his_ side, and shut himself up in his cabin.

The other three ascended together to the deck.