'So you can sew?' said the visitor.

'Of course I can. Aunt Shadow taught me,' answered the water-maiden,
threading her needle deftly. 'There is no need to do it, for I have so
many dresses; but I like to sew, don't you?'

'I cannot say that I do. Have you so many dresses then?'

'Yes; would you like to see them? Wait.'

Down went the little gown trailing along the floor, and away she flew,
coming back with her arms full,--silks, muslins, laces, and even
jewelry. 'Are they not beautiful?' she asked, ranging her splendor
over the chairs.

'They are indeed,' said Waring, examining the garments with curious
eyes. 'Where did you get them?'

'Father brought them. O, there he is now, there he is now! I hear the
oars. Come, Lorez.'

She ran out; the old woman hastened, carrying a brand from the hearth;
and after a moment Waring followed them. 'I may as well face the old
rogue at once,' he thought.

The moon had not risen and the night was dark; under the balcony
floated a black object, and Lorez, leaning over, held out her flaming
torch. The face of the old rogue came out into the light under its
yellow handkerchief, but so brightened and softened by loving gladness
that the gazer above hardly knew it. 'Are you there, darling, safe and