"But what can one do in 'this weak piping time of peace'? There are no
maidens to be rescued from the enchantments of the wizard, and it is no
longer the fashion to ride forth with sword and halberd to murder in the
name of honor all who oppose themselves. No more dark continents wait to
be explored, neither is there novelty left in searching the ocean's depths
nor in sailing the sky above us. Civilized warfare itself, the only field
remaining where undying fame may be purchased, seems likely to lose its
hold on men, and soon the arbitrator will everywhere replace the
commander-in-chief and the noble art of war will degenerate into the
ignoble lawsuit. So even universal peace may have its drawbacks."

"That is quite sufficient in that line," said Margaret. "Now let us come
down to something practicable."

"Well, I might bribe the pilot to sink the steamer when we are going up
the bay, so that I could have the opportunity of saving your life."

"It would be almost worth the trial if it were not for the other people,"
she returned. "Such a role would become you immensely."

"I regret that I cannot accommodate you," I said. "But I have thought of
something which would be rather safer for you. How would you like to have
me fall desperately in love with some pretty girl?"

"Just the thing," exclaimed Margaret, laughing and clapping her hands, "if
you can only be sure she will not return your passion."

"Small chance of that," I answered. "So you approve the plan, do you?"