The sun on this November day shone down brightly and hotly on the harbor and the shipping, and fell directly upon the stately form of Barbara, as she stood bareheaded upon the deck. No sea breeze now lifted her tresses, but her raven black hair lay rippling and glistening in purplish lustre under the beams of that tropical sun, that seemed not to burn, but only to ripen her luscious southern beauty. The rich bloom of her complexion rivaled that of the ruddiest tropical fruit. And in hue like the purple glow of grape tendrils, were the tresses of her hair against those pomegranate cheeks. The broad and massive forehead, the well-defined black brows, the strong flashing eyes, the straight high nose, firm though rounded lips, and above all, the erect, elastic carriage; the fearless, resolute look; and the clear, resonant voice, gave a character of strength and energy to a style of beauty otherwise too voluptuous. Her costume evinced her usual disregard to every quality in dress, except its fitness, and consisted of the customary gray serge gown and sacque. She was engaged in giving directions in regard to the stowing of some freight. On seeing Lord Montressor coming up the starboard gangway, she advanced with a smile and an extended hand to meet him. “Good-morning, Lord Montressor. I am _very_ glad to see you.” “Not so glad as I am to stand before you, I dare be sworn, Miss Brande.” “Ah! but to have returned so soon you must have had a motive. Now, how can we serve you, Lord Montressor?” “You are going to England?” “Yes, sir; it is the best thing that I can do! I am going to Liverpool to take a cargo of sugar and molasses and probably to bring back one of Manchester dry goods. Can I do any thing for you in England?” “You can take me thither.” “Ah! you have decided on going home?” “I have, after mature deliberation, determined to return to England and await the action of the Spiritual Court, if, indeed, the action has not been arrested by the intelligence of the death of Monsieur L’Orient.” “And if it has, you will cause the proper parties to set it going again?” “Perhaps,” replied Lord Montressor. “At all events, I am glad that you have decided on going to watch the progress of the affair, my lord, and _very_ glad to have the pleasure of your company on the voyage,” said Barbara, with such cordial sincerity, that her whole warm countenance glowed with the light of the happiness she expressed. “I thank you very earnestly; and, believe me, the satisfaction you express is much more than reciprocated by myself. I would have waited some time and foregone many other good things for the pleasure of sailing with you, Miss Brande,” replied Lord Montressor, heartily, regarding the handsome creature before him with an honest admiration, free from the slightest alloy of covetousness. He could appreciate her noble beauty and unique attractions without the least wish to appropriate them.