officer.

"Dropped her fan," repeated the general, sneeringly, as he gazed at
the lieutenant.

"Yes, general, and I returned it."

"Indeed," said the commanding officers, with a decided emphasis.

"Could I have done less, general?" asked Lieutenant Bezan.

"It matters not, though you seem to be ever on hand to do the lady
and her father some service, sir. Perhaps you would relish another
cold bath," he continued, with most cutting sarcasm. "Who introduced
you, sir, to these people?"

"No one, sir. It was chance that brought us together. You will
remember the scene on the quay."

"I do."

"Before that time I had never exchanged one word with them."

"And on this you presume to establish an acquaintance?"

"By no means, sir. The lady recognized me, and I was proud to return
the polite salute with which she greeted me."

"Doubtless."