she added, in explanation, "because it is so calm that we might fancy
ourselves ashore."

"Neither," he answered. "The smoking-room is stuffy, and my dancing days
are over. No; I proposed to take exercise after that big dinner, and
then to sit in a chair and fall asleep. But," he added, and his voice
grew interested, "how did you know that it was I? You never turned your
head."

"I have ears in my head as well as eyes," she answered with a little
laugh, "and after we have been nearly a month together on this ship I
ought to know your step."

"I never remember that anyone ever recognized it before," he said, more
to himself than to her, then came and leaned over the rail at her side.
His doubts were gone. Fate had spoken.

For a while there was silence between them, then he asked her if she
were not going to the dance.

Benita shook her head.

"Why not? You are fond of dancing, and you dance very well. Also there
are plenty of officers for partners, especially Captain----" and he
checked himself.

"I know," she said; "it would be pleasant, but--Mr. Seymour, will you
think me foolish if I tell you something?"

"I have never thought you foolish yet, Miss Clifford, so I don't know