"I'll think it over; but see here, why is it you are so
anxious to get possession of the girl?"

"I do not wish to see one so lovely and beautiful living in
such a miserable condition."

"See here, Garcia, do you mean that girl harm?"

"Why, old man, what could prompt you to ask that question?"

"Well, I'll tell you, you're so anxious; 'tis just come over
my mind that you don't mean just what's right. Now, see here;
it wouldn't do for you to mean any harm to Renie. I'd follow,
any man who would harm her to the very death!"

As the old smuggler spoke he drew his knife front his belt and
laid it on the table in a suggestive manner,

"You can trust the girl with me; but where is she, to-night?"

"Can't tell, sir; nights like these she likes to roam the
beach; she's a strange girl, sir, but I'd never have any harm
come to her!"

"Will you consent to bring her to New York on a Visit?"

"I'll think the matter over, and--"

The further remarks of the old smuggler were cut short by a
shrill scream of agony which broke the stillness of the night.