the Frenchman had returned, and was supporting her head on his
knee and covering her head with her parasol.

"The lady has fainted!" he exclaimed, eagerly. His manner was
no longer one of idle indolence. He was wide awake now and
visibly excited.

"The sun has been too much for her," he said. "It is most
dangerous walking about at this time of day."

Gordon ran down the beach and scooped up some water in his
helmet, and dipping his handkerchief in it bathed her temples
and cheek. He had time to note that she was a very beautiful
girl, and the pallor of her face gave it a touch of gentleness
that he had not seen there before.

"I will go to the hotel and bring assistance, said the
stranger, uneasily, as the woman showed signs of regaining
consciousness.

"No," said Gordon, "you'll stay where you are and shade her
with her umbrella. She'll be all right in a minute."

The girl opened her eyes, and looking up saw Gordon bending
over her. She regarded him for a moment and made an effort to
rise, and in her endeavor to do so her eyes met those of the
Frenchman, and with a sharp moan she shut them again and threw
herself from Gordon's knee to the sand.

"Give me that umbrella," said Gordon, "and go stand over there