Cosway's experience of the life of a naval officer on foreign stations (without political influence to hasten his promotion)had thoroughly disappointed him. He decided on retiring from the service when the ship was "paid off." In the meantime, to the astonishment of his comrades, he seemed to be in no hurry to make use of the leave granted him to go on shore. The faithful Stone was the only man on board who knew that he was afraid of meeting his "wife." This good friend volunteered to go to the inn, and make the necessary investigation with all needful prudence. "Four years is a long time, at _her_ age," he said. "Many things may happen in four years."An hour later, Stone returned to the ship, and sent a written message on board, addressed to his brother-officer, in these words: "Pack up your things at once, and join me on shore. ""What news?" asked the anxious husband.
Stone looked significantly at the idlers on the landing-place.
"Wait," he said, "till we are by ourselves."
"Where are we going?"
"To the railway station."
They got into an empty carriage; and Stone at once relieved his friend of all further suspense.
