Read "When Shadows Die" by Emma Dorothy Eliza Nevitte Southworth online for free on Textopian. Full text with search, annotations, highlights, and AI-powered reading aids.
"We must wait until Franklin comes on board," said Leonidas Force, the next morning, as he stood beside Mr. Force, on the deck of the _Argente_, looking off toward the navy yard, where a boat had already been sent to bring out the young midshipman.
"Will he be punctual? " inquired Mr. Force, who was almost as impatient as his companion to be off to keep their appointment to breakfast with the ladies of their family at the hotel that morning.
"‘Punctual! " echoed Le. "His orders are to report on board at seven this morning, and he will be here on time."
Mr. Force took out his watch and looked at it.
"It wants twelve minutes to seven now! " he exclaimed.
"And here comes Franklin! " replied Le, as the young midshipman was seen running across the yard down to the water's edge, where the boat waited.
As he jumped on board, the boat was seen to turn and head for the ship.
In a few minutes it had crossed the water and come up alongside.
Young Franklin sprang out and climbed up on deck.
"Two minutes to seven! You are prompt, midshipman," said Le, smiling.
"I would rather be an hour too soon than a second too late, lieutenant," replied the young officer, saluting.
"Quite right! Tell the coxswain to wait. He is to take this gentleman and myself ashore," said Le.
Then he went down into his cabin, followed by Mr. Force, to make a few final preparations.
Soon they returned to the deck, went down into the boat, and headed for the shore.
When they landed, and were walking across the yard, Le asked:
"I may at last marry Odalite without let or hindrance?"
"I have told you so, lad!"
"Yes, bless you, uncle! But how soon? How soon?"
"This very day, if Odalite and her mother agree."
"Let us walk faster, uncle! Please! " pleaded the impatient lover.