Page:Idalia, by 'Ouida' volume 3.djvu/174

Rh not far from this," he said, as his words of welcome closed. "You are yachting, I suppose?"

"No."

"No? I thought that fisher-costume was surely a sailor's dress. May I ask what brings you, then, to this world-forgotten nook?"

"I came to get a boat, and a boat's crew if I could."

"Ah! you have lost your way?"

"I know the coast well. I merely need a boat—of what kind matters little. Can you help me?"

"I grieve to say no. My friends' residence is some way from here; and, besides, they have not even a pleasure skiff; they care nothing for the water. But you would not put out to the open sea in a mere boat?"

"Why so?"

"Why! Because I fancy no man would who was not weary of his life—or whose life was not menaced on the land."

Erceldoune looked up; with a flash of his fiery impatience.

"Explain that phrase."

"Transíate it for yourself."

"Not I. I am in no mood for enigmas. You had your meaning; out with it!"