Pat introduced Bubbles, who speedily made himself at home, and both Foster and Ronald declining Mr. Ryan's hospitable invitation to drink, they all went over the bridge again to see the races. A bright day, gaily dressed crowd, the broad, blue river crowded with crafts, and the green country and picturesque red-roofed houses on either side--nothing could be more delightful. Pat, Bubbles, and Foster, all ardent boating-men, shouted vociferously as the boats went shooting up the stream, their oars flashing in the sunlight. And the cheers that rang through the air when the winning crew won by a boat's length were as hearty for the losers as for the victors. Ronald, however, looked grave and haggard as he stood by Carmela's side watching the races. He kept glancing at her face, and saw that she, too, was pale and thin, while everyone else was bright and gay, enjoying the animated scene, only those two unhappy lovers were brooding over their sorrows. "She could not have committed such a crime," thought Ronald, his eyes fixed absently on the bright waters. "He can never believe that I am marrying my cousin willingly," she thought, with a sigh; "he must know that it's to save my sister." "I had your letter," said Ronald, in a low whisper, in her ear. "And you understood my reasons?" she asked, though her lips grew white. He bowed, thinking she alluded to her crime. "Is it true?" he asked, huskily. "Yes; God forgive me, it is," she replied, thinking he was referring to her sister's sin. Ronald gave a shudder, and turned away as white as a sheet. "From her own lips," he muttered; "it is impossible; I'll ask her again." Ah me, how often cross purposes mar our lives! After that the party went down to the boats to luncheon, and Sir Mark, delighted to see the young men, asked them to dinner. "We dine at seven," he said, hospitably, "where are you stopping?" "The Crown Hotel," replied Foster. "Then you'll come and dine with me to-night?" said Sir Mark. "Yes," answered Ronald, eagerly, for he thought he then could speak freely to Carmela, "we shall be delighted." Foster saw what his friend wanted, so gladly accepted the invitation, the more so, as he felt a decided inclination to improve his acquaintance with Miss Trevor, whose bright eyes had made an impression on his heart. Ronald had no more speech with Carmela that day, and kept aloof from her, a fact she attributed to his knowledge of her engagement with Vassalla. The rest of the afternoon passed rapidly, and though there was to be a procession of illuminated boats that night, the Bellfield party said they would go home, and departed up the river in the gathering shadows, Sir Mark's cheery voice being the last heard. "Seven o'clock, my boys!" he sang out, "not a minute later." CHAPTER XXII. THE TESTIMONY OF THE DAGGER.