Robert Bramble and Maud alone seemed unhappy, and they were moody
indeed.

It was towards the twilight hour on the very day of the arrival which we
have referred to, that Charles and Helen arm in arm started away from
the house to the adjacent jungle, where was a pleasant trysting-place,
with a seat prepared for resort from the house. Breathing into each
other's ears the glad and trusting accents of true love, they sauntered
slowly hither and sat down there, Helen upon the rude, but comfortable
seat, and Charles at her feet upon the ground. About them grew the rank,
luxuriant foliage of Africa; fragrant flowers bloomed within reach of
their hands, and luscious fruit greeted the eye in whichever direction
it sought. The soft air of the afterpart of the day was ladened with
sweetness, and they seemed to gather fresh incentive for tenderness and
love in the peculiar surroundings of the spot.

"So, you have broken off all connection with this business, and have
settled your accounts with Don Leonardo, have you not?" asked Helen, of
him at her feet.

"Yes, dearest, all has been done, and I shall have no more to do with
the trade of this inhospitable coast, you may be assured. My only hope
and desire is once more to see you and your mother safe in England,
where I can make you by sacred ties my own."

Helen looked the tender response that beat in her heart, but which her
lips refused to pronounce. She was very, very happy, and they talked
over olden times, childish recollections, and the memories of their
early home.