Читать книгу Edith Percival. A Novel онлайн

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And when he had reached it, a sight met his eyes that transfixed him with amazement. For there, promenading the deck, and leaning most affectionately on the arm of Gus, was the fair unknown. The morning breeze had brought a deep rose-hue to the pearly cheeks; her eyes were bright with pleasure, and smiles were chasing the dimples over her fair, sunshiny face. And there was Gus bending over her, in a way for which Fred could have shot him without remorse, calling up her smiles and blushes at his own magnetic will.

No wonder Fred was amazed, angry, mortified. He had saved her life almost at the risk of his own: and, because he had uttered a few gallant words, she had grown as distantly reserved and dignified as a queen on her throne. And here was Gus Elliott, whom she had never seen before, now her elected champion, and, to judge by appearances, something more than a friend.

As they passed, both looked up and recognized him, she by a formal bow, and Gus by a smile of triumph. With the air of an insulted prince, Fred turned aside, and strolled in an opposite direction, with the firm conviction that there was nothing in the world but ingratitude.