"Personally, I have seen no reason whatever for such a hubbub," was the
flippant answer.
It was evident that Dr. Christobal was annoyed. Notwithstanding his
conventional polish, he was not a man to conceal his feelings when
deeply stirred. Yet Elsie failed to catch his intent, other than that
he was adopting his usual nonchalant tone.
"But something must have caused Captain Courtenay and Mr. Tollemache to
fire their revolvers so frequently. And, if they were mistaken, the
dog would not have shared their error. Besides, one of the canoes did
not get away. See! Its mast is fastened there."
"Ah! I had forgotten Tollemache. He was selected to join the
captain's watch, of course."
"Yes, I was present when the watches were formed. Have you seen Mr.
Tollemache? Is he safe?"
"He is among those making the round of the ship. I hope you will
forgive me."
"Forgive you! What have you done that calls for forgiveness?"
"There are errors of speech which equal those of conduct, Miss Maxwell."
"Oh, what nonsense--at one in the morning--when we are threatened by
savages!"
Christobal was relieved that she took this view of his abrupt
utterances.
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