The Ferryman of Brill, and other stories, by William H G Kingston. 

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Chapters 1 to 4 constitute "The Ferryman of Brill", while the otherseven chapters are short stories on their own. All these stories hadpreviously appeared in early volumes of "The Quiver". They werecollected and published by Cassell's, who were not Kingston's usualpublishers, and the book came out in the year of Kingston's death. 

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THE FERRYMAN OF BRILL, AND OTHER STORIES, BY WILLIAM H G KINGSTON. 

CHAPTER ONE. 

THE PROTESTANT LOVERS--A RIVAL--DIEDRICH FINDS HIS FOOTSTEPS DOGGED--FINDS A FRIEND IN THE FERRYMAN--THREATENED WITH THE INQUISITION--FLIESTO SEA. 

Not far from the broad and slow-flowing river Meuse stands the town ofBrill. Flanders, in which it is found, formed at the period to which werefer a province of the dominions belonging to Philip of Spain. It wasruled with no very paternal hand by the Duke of Alva, who residedchiefly at Brussels. He had been employed for several years in burning, hanging, drowning, and cutting off the heads of his loving subjects, andtorturing them in a variety of ways, in order to make them dutifulchildren of the Church of Rome, and of his master, Philip. Not withgreat success, for they still hated, with an unalterable deadly hatred, both one and the other. Brill at that time was not a populous city, nordid it possess much commercial importance; but it was well walled andfortified, however, and had a most commodious port. The inhabitantswere peaceable, well-disposed people, who thought as much of themselvesas the citizens of other cities of similar importance are apt to do. Among them was a young merchant--Diedrich Meghem. He had made severalvoyages of adventure, and was well accustomed to a seafaring life. Nowprosperous, and hoping to become wealthy, he was about to settle down asa steady citizen on shore, with the expectation of some day, perhaps, becoming burgomaster of his native city. Diedrich, as young men are aptto do, looked about for a wife to share his good fortune, and had fixedhis affections on Gretchen Hopper, a fair and very lovely girl, thedaughter of a flourishing merchant. Hopper was supposed to be thepossessor of considerable wealth--a dangerous distinction in those days. Duke Alva heard of the merchant Hopper's reputed wealth, and had made anote to take an early opportunity of relieving him of a portion if notthe whole of it. Hopper was known to hold the reformed principles, andthough he was careful not to intrude his opinions in public, the duke'sadvisers suggested that there would be no difficulty in bringing up anaccusation of heresy against him. Diedrich was an ardent Protestant. His eye had long been fixed on William of Orange as the person best ableto lift his country out of the present depressed condition in which shegroaned. 

Gretchen was a quiet, gentle girl, and she also held to the opinions ofher father and her lover, in spite of her gentleness, with adetermination in no way inferior to theirs. Gretchen soon found outthat the honest, generous-hearted Diedrich loved her, and not long afterthis discovery she acknowledged to him that he possessed her entireheart. She had, however, other admirers, from whom she might havechosen a husband of a nobler family and of greater wealth than Diedrich. Among other pretenders to her hand was Caspar Gaill, a Fleming of goodfamily, who, however, held to the Romish faith and supported thegovernment of Alva. The merchant Hopper had a great regard forDiedrich, and was well pleased to find that he wished to become hisdaughter's husband. He at once accepted him as a son-in-law, and gavethe young couple his blessing. 

"The times are not propitious for marriage, however, " he observed. "Matters may mend; they can scarcely grow worse. Gretchen is young, andcan wait a little. You must have patience, then, my good friendDiedrich. "

Gretchen and her lover passed many pleasant evenings together, though itwas considered prudent not to make their intended marriage public. One, however, had watched Diedrich's constant visits to the house, and hisheart burned with jealousy. 

One evening Diedrich was returning to his home, when, looking over hisshoulder on hearing footsteps, he discovered that he was followed. Whenhe walked faster, the stranger proceeded also at the same rate; when hestopped, the stranger stopped; when he went at a slow pace, the strangerslackened his speed. At length, passing a shrine at the corner of astreet, before which a bright lamp was kept burning, Diedrich turnedsharply round, and found himself standing face to face with the personwho had been following him. 

"What object have you in dodging my steps?" asked Diedrich, placing hishand on his sword ready to draw. 

"As you ask me a question, I will put another to you, " said thestranger, also drawing his sword half out of the scabbard. "For whatpurpose do you visit the house where you have been passing the evening?"

"You put a question to which I positively refuse to reply to any one, and still less to you, Caspar Gaill, for I know you well, " answeredDiedrich, still further drawing out his sword. 

"Then I refuse to answer the question you put to me, " said Caspar. "Weunderstand each other, and you may know me henceforth as your enemy. "

"A matter of very little consequence, " answered Diedrich, in a scornfultone. 

The young men parted, but from that day forward Diedrich was aware thathis footsteps were constantly followed when he went abroad, especiallyon the Sabbath, when he was accustomed to attend the meetings of theProtestants held in the city. Still he was too proud and too fearlessto alter his mode of proceeding on this account. At night often he sawin the distance a dim figure following him, but which, when he turnedround, invariably disappeared. 

On one occasion he resolved to pursue the spy, and punish him severelyif he could overtake him. Scarcely had he left his home when heobserved a figure as usual like a distant shadow coming after him. Hewalked on for some way, as if indifferent to the circumstance, by gentledegrees slackening his pace, till, as he supposed, his pursuer hadapproached nearer than usual. He then suddenly turned round, and, darting forward, was close up to the man before the latter made anyattempt to escape. 

"Why, Diedrich Meghem, you seem to be in a desperate hurry thisevening, " said a voice he thought he recollected. 

"What, Peter Kopplestock, are you my secret pursuer?" he asked, in atone of surprise. 

"It may be so, but I may be your guardian angel, " answered the personthus addressed, in a low voice. "I have been wishing to see you withoutwitnesses for some days past, and now the matter brooks of no delay. "

"Come to my house, then, " said Diedrich; "we can speak there withoutfear of interruption. "

"That's the very place it will not be wise for me to go to, " said Peter;"if I go there I shall be observed. Do you come to my house. You willfind a porch a little to the right of it. Slip in there and remainquiet for a few minutes. Should you be followed at the time, yourpursuer will pass by and lose sight of you. Come in an hour hence. Itwill be dangerous to put off the visit till to-morrow. "

Diedrich followed the advice of his friend. He had known PeterKopplestock from his earliest days. Peter was of no very exalted rank, but he had numerous friends who, not without reason, put confidence inhim. His chief occupation was that of a ferryman plying across theriver Meuse. He also visited the ships which appeared at the mouth ofthe river when unable for want of wind to come up to the town, and tookprovisions off to them, and brought messages on shore. PeterKopplestock took an especial interest in Diedrich; Diedrich had alwaysbeen his generous employer, and was now going to marry his niece. 

The wealthy merchant Hopper had once been a humble clerk, and he thenhad married the very beautiful sister of Peter the ferryman. She haddied, and her young daughter had been educated as well as any young ladyin the land. Diedrich was well aware of the relationship, and itincreased the confidence he felt in Peter, who was also of his own wayof thinking--indeed, a more thorough Protestant could not have beenfound. 

Diedrich found his way, at the hour appointed, to Peter Kopplestock'scottage down by the river-side. He saw, when leaving his own house, theusual figure following him, but he hoped, by hiding himself as Peter hadadvised him to do, to escape from his pursuer. The cottage door wasajar. He pushed it open and entered. Peter welcomed him cordially. 

"I have sad news for you, my friend, " said the ferryman. "You have beendenounced to the Inquisition as a heretic, and your enemies haveresolved to take your life. Among them you may reckon Caspar Gaill. Hethinks that by getting rid of you he may win the hand of my fair niece. "

"How do you know that?" asked Diedrich. 

"He told me so himself, " said the ferryman. "He is not aware of ourconnection, and he takes me to be a Romanist. He confides to me hislove for Gretchen, if such a fellow has a heart to love, and, in caseshe should continue to refuse his hand, he engaged me to assist him incarrying her off. A pretty proceeding that would be. However, I didnot decline his offer, but told him that I was very sure he waspremature in executing his plan; that he must wait patiently, and thatby-and-by, should the young lady continue obdurate, he might put it intoexecution. "

"But what do you advise me to do?" asked Diedrich. "I cannot leaveGretchen--I cannot leave my business to ruin and destruction; I wouldrather remain and brave the worst. "

"Tell me, have any of those who have been denounced to the Inquisitionescaped from their fangs?" said Peter. "I trow not; then how do youhope to escape death if you remain? Take my advice, my friend; flywhile you can, before your wings are clipped. It is a hard thing, Iknow, for you to leave the girl you love, and it's cruel to neglect aflourishing business which is affording you a handsome income. But youneed not lead a life of indolence. You wear a sword, and you have anarm to wield it. You would be welcomed by those bold rovers of the sea, the `water beggars. ' If you offer your assistance to William de laMarck, he will gladly accept it. It would be a glorious thing to assistin liberating your country, and the only aid we can hope for is from theocean. On shore we cannot withstand the cruel Spaniards, but at sea wemay compete with them successfully. "

Diedrich sat silent for some time. 

"You cast down my hopes just now, but you have again raised them, " heexclaimed. "I will go and consult Gretchen. If she urges me to go, Iwill follow your advice; I am sure that she will remain true to me tillI return. "

"I wish that I could persuade you to go off at once, " said Peter; "yourenemies are vigilant, and determined on your destruction, and any momentyou may find yourself in their power. "

Diedrich promised to be cautious, and to keep as much as possible withinthe house during the next day, while he would make all the preparationin his power for his speedy departure, should Gretchen approve of hisintention. 

Peter told him that there was a vessel down the river on the point ofsailing. He was acquainted with the captain, who was a warm partisan ofthe Prince of Orange, and would do his utmost to protect him should hego on board. 

Diedrich Meghem was a brave man, but the Inquisition, he knew too well, was not an institution to be trifled with. Poor Gretchen wasoverwhelmed with grief when she heard of the dangerous position in whichDiedrich was placed. She urged him to fly without delay, promisingagain and again to be faithful to him, and to welcome him as a husbandwhenever he should return. The merchant Hopper also advised him toleave the country. Diedrich Meghem had made all the arrangementspossible with his head clerk and manager, and was still writing busilyat his own house, having packed up such articles as he desired to takewith him, when Peter Kopplestock hurried into his room. 

"It's time for you to be off at once, my friend, " he exclaimed; "thisvery night the Inquisitors' officers will visit your house, and if theyfind you, will carry you off to an imprisonment from which, with life, you will never escape. Here, I have brought this large Spanish cloak;throw it over your shoulders and follow me. Your portmanteau and bags Iwill take care of. "

It was already too dark to distinguish people in the streets. Peter ledthe way down to the river, Diedrich following him. They were quickly onboard the ferryboat, but Peter, instead of pulling over to the otherbank of the river, rowed down the stream as fast as his arms could urgeon the boat. Diedrich stepped on board the vessel, where he waswelcomed cordially by the skipper. Peter threw his portmanteau and bagover the bulwarks, and giving him his blessing, pulled back to the town. 

CHAPTER TWO. 

AN UNWELCOME SUITOR--GRETCHEN REFUSES TO ACCEPT CASPAR GAILL--CASPARPLOTS WITH FATHER QUIXADA TO BETRAY THE PROTESTANTS--THE MONK'STREACHERY. 

Gretchen was seated in the parlour of her father's house, busilyemployed in tapestry work--the constant occupation of young ladies inthose days, as at present. The merchant Hopper came in; care andthought sat on his brow. His daughter affectionately inquired the causeof his anxiety. 

"I cannot tell you, my child, " he answered. "It is enough to know thatso many of my friends, in various parts of our unhappy land, have beenput to death by fire, and sword, and drowning, through the mandates ofthe tyrant Alva, and who knows what may be our fate in this city?Hitherto we have escaped, but the priests are busy, and are even nowtrying to ferret out the Protestants. I am thankful that our friendDiedrich escaped; he would certainly otherwise have been seized. "

"Oh, Father! I wish you would try and escape too, " said Gretchen; "Iwill accompany you. We can go to England, that land of liberty. If youcannot take any of your wealth with you, I will labour for you there. Surely we shall find friends there, and need not have any fear ofstarving. "

Their conversation was interrupted by a knock at the door, and CasparGaill was announced. Both the merchant and his daughter received himcoldly. He came dressed in gay attire, and seemed to consider himselfin the light of a favoured suitor. Now he spoke to Gretchen, now heturned to her father. Again he turned to the young lady, and urged herto promise to be his. 

"You know not the danger to which you are exposed, " he observed. "Asthe wife of a well-known Catholic you will be safe, and I may be able toprotect your father. At present he is in great peril. I do nothesitate to tell him so. "

The merchant, thanking Caspar for his offer, assured him that he wouldnot bias his daughter. 

"My being in peril must not compel her to give her hand where she cannotalso bestow her heart. You will not take amiss what I have said, as itarises from no personal ill-feeling towards you. "

In vain Caspar pleaded his cause, and at length, with a frown on hisbrow, and an angry glance in his eye, although honeyed words were on hislips, he took his departure. 

Caspar Gaill left the house of the merchant Hopper in no enviable mood. He took his way through the street till he reached the door of a certainreligious house or monastery, as it was called, and inquired for aFather Quixada. He was shown into a cell inhabited by a Spanish monkwho acted as his father confessor. 

"How fares your suit with the pretty Gretchen, my son?" asked thefather, who at the same time, however, had observed Caspar's angry look. 

The young man shook his head, and replied briefly that he had beenrefused. 

"No hope?" asked the father. 

"None, " answered Caspar. 

"You would have a better chance if the merchant was out of the way, "observed the priest. 

"Very likely, but he is cautious. It may be no easy matter to get ridof him, " answered Caspar. 

"Follow my advice, my son, and it can be managed. You have strongsuspicions that he is a Protestant. Pretend that you have given up hisdaughter, but that you desire to be instructed in the new faith. In ashort time he will trust you, and if he attends any place of meetingwhere the Protestants meet, you can introduce me among them. I candisguise myself so that they shall not know me, and I may then not onlymark him, but all others who may be present, and inform against them asmay be most convenient. "

CHAPTER THREE. 

CASPAR PROFESSES THE PROTESTANT FAITH--ATTENDS A MEETING--EFFECT OF THEGOSPEL ON CASPAR--CASPAR, HOWEVER, KEEPS HIS ENGAGEMENT WITH FATHERQUIXADA--DOUBTS AND FEARS--THE MONK ATTENDS THE NEXT MEETING, AND NOTESALL PRESENT--CASPAR'S REMORSE--THE SPY AGAIN IN THE LITTLE COMPANY--CASPAR WARNS THE INTENDED VICTIMS--TOO LATE--FATHER AND DAUGHTER IN THEHANDS OF THE INQUISITION--CONDEMNED--CASPAR DESPAIRS OF THE RESULT OFHIS WORK--CONSULTS THE FERRYMAN--BUT NEW PLANS FAIL. 

Caspar did not at first like this plan. It was treacherous anddeceitful, and he must act the part of a spy and a hypocrite to carry itout; but as it was proposed to him by his father confessor, he came tothe conclusion that he ought not to hesitate about it. 

The merchant Hopper was surprised a few days after this to receive avisit from Caspar Gaill. The young man told him that he had abandonedall hopes of winning his daughter's hand; indeed, he thought of quittingthe country. He confessed that he had of late taken every opportunityof examining the new doctrines, and that he was acquainted enough withthem to make him desire to go to England, where he might study them morefreely, and with greater safety. "I know not what your opinions may be, Mr Hopper, but I am very sure that you will not mention mine to any oneelse. "

The merchant was generally cautious, but the young man's apparentfrankness threw him greatly off his guard. Caspar, urged on by FatherQuixada, persevered, and at length fully persuaded the merchant Hopperthat he was a convert to the Protestant faith. A private meeting ofProtestants was to take place, and Caspar entreated that he might beallowed to be present. The merchant no longer hesitated. At themeeting prayers were offered up, hymns sung, and the simple Gospelplainly put before those present. The young man listened attentively inspite of himself. He there learned that all men are sinners and justlycondemned; that "God so loved the world that He gave His only-begottenSon" to suffer instead of sinful man, and to save him from the result ofthat determination. He heard that "the just shall live by faith, " notby any works, not by any good deeds that they can do, not by any formsand ceremonies to which they may adhere, but simply trusting to theblood shed for them on Calvary, to the perfect and complete sacrificeoffered up by Christ for them. He there learned that Jesus Christ hadbecome sinful man's sin-bearer; that He had fulfilled the obediencewhich man had neglected to fulfil; that He came to save sinners, to liftthe weary and heart-broken, the wretched and the penitent, out of theirmiserable state; that man is saved simply by turning away from his sins, from his idolatries, from the thoughtless course he may have hithertofollowed, and looking trustfully, believingly, on Jesus crucified forhim. The young man went away from the meeting with new thoughts, butwith an unchanged heart. He had promised to go immediately to FatherQuixada, and he fulfilled his promise, though not without doubt andhesitation. 

"You have done well, " said the father. "Let me once get among thesepeople, and I will put a stop to their preaching, while you may makesure of winning pretty Gretchen for your wife, and perchance come in fora share of the merchant's property, which I may secure for you. "

There was to be another meeting the following night. Caspar passed theinterval in a state of doubt and agitation. He had promised tointroduce the father, who, disguised as a German merchant just arrivedfrom the South, was eager to be present. Often the young man thought hewould try and persuade the father not to go, then that he wouldpositively refuse to introduce him. He had, however, already given himso much information that he would have had no difficulty in finding hisway to the place of meeting by himself. Still, Caspar might acknowledgehis own treacherous intentions and warn the Protestants of the spy whowas about to be in their midst. The cunning priest soon discovered hisperplexity, and used every argument to induce him to be satisfied thathe was doing the right thing. Caspar was over-persuaded, but notconvinced. The evening came, the meeting took place, and the Germanmerchant was received as a Christian brother by those present. He notedthem all, old men, young men, and women of various ranks. 

Father Quixada heard the same truths which had been listened to byCaspar Gaill, but they fell on ground of a different character. He wentaway utterly regardless of them. He had now, not only the merchantHopper, but several other influential and wealthy citizens in his power. He wished, however, to get more into his net, and hearing that in a dayor two another meeting would take place, at which several other personswould attend, he laid his plans accordingly. "I shall have a good haulby that time, " he thought to himself. 

Caspar Gaill had in the meantime been seized with remorse. He hadbetrayed the man who had trusted him, the father of one whom he wishedto make his bride; still he dared not warn them. The friar, he wellknew, had his eye upon him. He knew too completely the secrets of hisheart, and he felt sure that should he attempt to defeat FatherQuixada's projects, he himself would be the first victim of hisvengeance. 

At the intended meeting, not only the merchant Hopper, but his fairdaughter Gretchen was present. Caspar Gaill came also, but howdifferent were his thoughts to those he had entertained when first heentered that hall!

He kept looking anxiously round, hoping that the German merchant mightnot appear. His heart sank, however, when, just before the sermonbegan, the seeming merchant appeared, and was, to human eye, the mostdevout of all the congregation. No one joined more heartily in thehymns of Marot; no one seemed to hang more earnestly on the words of thespeaker. Again were the glorious truths of the Gospel put forth insimple language. Though the merchant's eyes were fixed on the speaker, and his countenance beamed with intelligence, his thoughts were faraway, occupied in a plan for capturing the whole of those who wereengaged in worship round him. His quick eye, too, was noting all whowere present. He marked the fair Gretchen, and knew her at once frombeing with her father. 

"Caspar has not chosen ill, so far as eye is concerned, " he said tohimself. "No wonder he raves about the little maiden. He need nolonger have any fears about winning her; she may not love him, butsurely she will rather become his bride than be sent to the stake. Fewgirls would prefer burning, or drowning, or hanging, to a young andgallant husband. Caspar is well-favoured, she will not refuse him; wewill give her the choice. "

The meeting was brought to a conclusion. Father Quixada left the hallwith the rest, and after making several turns and twists so as to escapeobservation, he took his way to the house where a newly-arrived bishoplodged, sent from Brussels to look into the religious condition ofBrill. The bishop and Father Quixada were of kindred spirit. Theformer held an important office in the Holy Inquisition, and felt nocompunction, but on the contrary, considerable satisfaction, at sendinga dozen of his fellow-creatures to suffer death by drowning, or burning, because they might differ from him on a few theological points. FatherQuixada explained the plan he had adopted, and received the warmapproval of his superior. 

It was late at night. The fair Gretchen was about to retire to herroom. The merchant had been engaged at his books and accounts. He hadbeen collecting such property as he could put into a portable form, andhad made up his mind to leave Brill forthwith for England. He hadcommunicated his intentions to Peter Kopplestock, who highly approved ofthem, and had engaged to put him on board a vessel the following morningby daybreak. There was a knock at the door. The merchant himself, attended by Barbara the housekeeper, went with a light to open it. Afigure wrapped in a cloak was standing there. 

"Admit me for a moment, " said the stranger. "I come to warn you ofdanger. "

He entered, and the light held by Barbara fell on the features of CasparGaill. 

"I come to entreat you to fly immediately. Even now I may be too late. The officers of the Inquisition are already proceeding through the city, to capture certain suspected persons. You are among them. I dare notwait another moment; no mercy would be shown me if I was discovered. "

The unhappy young man spoke in a low, trembling voice. Tears were inhis eyes; he was pale as death. 

Again he hastened forth. He had not dared to confess the whole truth. The merchant closed the door, and proceeded with yet greater speed withhis preparations. He sent Barbara to Gretchen's room to tell her toprepare for flight. During the housekeeper's absence there was anotherknock at the door. It was repeated with far greater violence when thosewithout found that it was not opened. After the warning he hadreceived, the merchant guessed too well who were his visitors. Hehastily concealed the property he was about to carry off, and the otherarticles he had prepared for his departure. He then sent Barbara to thedoor, who, with unwilling hands, began slowly to withdraw the bolts. 

"What is the matter?" she asked; "what are you in such a hurry for? Whydo you thus disturb quiet citizens from their early rest?"

So nervous was she, however, that she could scarcely continue herinterrogations. At length the last bolt was withdrawn, and a party indark cloaks and masks were seen at the door. 

"Where are your master and his daughter?" asked one of them; "they mustaccompany us forthwith. "

"My master and his daughter!" asked Barbara, "what can you want withthem at this hour of the night?"

"They must come to the Holy Office, to answer certain questions, "answered the speaker. "Lead the way. "

"But if the door is opened the light will be blown out, and you will beunable to follow me. "

Her great aim was to delay as long as possible, in the hope that by somemeans her master and Gretchen might make their escape by the back of thehouse. She was greatly in hope that the light would blow out, that shemight thus have an excuse for a longer delay. 

"Come--come! no fooling, mistress!" exclaimed the officer. "Lead on, orwe must find the way by ourselves. "

On this, Barbara proceeded up the broad steps to the floor above. Twoor three men, however, kept watch below. In vain were all herprecautions. In the usual sitting room, quietly seated at a table, wereGretchen and her father. They rose as the officers of the Inquisitionentered, and the merchant asked them what they wanted. The officerrepeated what he had said to Barbara. 

"We must obey, " said the merchant; "we have no power to resist. "

Instantly the father and daughter were surrounded, and carried offseparately. Poor Barbara wrung her hands in terror as she saw themdepart. They were carried along to the prison in which those accused bythe Inquisition were confined. Brill had for some time been free fromsuch visitations, but the presence of Alva at Brussels had stirred upthe authorities, and victims were sought for throughout every town inFlanders. 

They were not allowed to languish long in prison before their trial tookplace. It was very short, for they did not deny the accusations broughtagainst them. They refused to acknowledge that the elements of breadand wine were really the body and blood of Christ. 

"Christ is in heaven, " answered the merchant Hopper, "at the right handof God; He cannot be on earth at the same time. I don't believe thatsinful man, by a few words, would have the power of changing bread andwine into flesh and blood. If there was a change, our sense would giveus evidence of that change. The bread remains bread, and the wine, wine. But more than this, I see no authority in Scripture for thisbelief. Christ told us to take bread and wine in remembrance of thelast supper He took with His disciples on earth, or rather, of the greatsacrifice which He was about to offer up, the last, the only one whichGod would ever accept, all previous ones being types of this; promisingus the same support to our spiritual nature that the bread and winegives to our physical nature. He often speaks of Himself as a door, asa rock, as a corner-stone of a building. In the same way He speaks ofHis flesh and blood. He intends us to understand that we arespiritually to feed on Him, that is to say, to trust on His sacrifice, His blood shed for us. "

"This is heresy! You need say no more, " said the judge. "And yourdaughter there, what does she say to these things?"

"I agree with my father, " answered Gretchen, firmly. "I believe thatthe just shall live by faith; that neither our works nor our obedienceto the Church of Rome will help in any way to save us. Christ hasaccomplished that great and glorious work, and only requires us to takehold of it by faith. "

"Enough--enough!" exclaimed the Inquisitor, stamping; "you havecondemned yourself by your own words. We need no other witnesses, though we can prove that you and others were present at hereticalmeetings. That circumstance alone was sufficient to condemn you todeath. We may afford you a few days for consideration and repentance. If you will recant your errors, you may receive a more mercifulsentence, but if not, you, Andrew Hopper, are condemned to be burnedalive; and you, Gretchen Hopper, to be drowned in a tank at the place ofexecution. "

Several other persons were brought up before the Inquisitors, thegreater number of whom were condemned to death. Andrew Hopper'sproperty was confiscated to the use of the state, or in other words, toassist Duke Alva in riveting yet more firmly his yoke upon the necks oftheir countrymen. Both Andrew Hopper and Gretchen Hopper bore theirfate with firmness and resignation. The chief regret of his daughterwas that she was separated from her father. She longed to be with himthat she might comfort and support him. Her thoughts, too, occasionallywent back to her lover Diedrich. Where was he all the time? Alas! shewould never see him again in this world, but she prayed that he mightremain firm to the truth, and meet her in a more glorious state ofexistence. 

When Caspar Gaill found what had taken place, he was in despair. Hefelt inclined to throw himself into the Meuse, and there end his life. He accused himself, very justly, of having caused the destruction of onehe professed to love. 

Might he yet do anything to save Gretchen? She might, perhaps, be gotoff, though it was not likely that her father would be allowed toescape. At first he thought of trying to get Father Quixada to pleadfor Gretchen, but he shuddered when he remembered the character of theman, and felt that even should the priest get her off, her conditionwould possibly not be improved. At last he bethought himself ofconsulting Peter Kopplestock. He had already told him of his love forGretchen, he might possibly induce the ferryman to assist in herescape--no easy task, however, and one full of perils. Peter had notbefore heard of the seizure of the merchant Hopper and his daughter. Hewas naturally indignant in the extreme against all concerned. 

"We must be cautious, however, " he said at length, recovering hiscalmness. "I tell you, however, Caspar Gaill, I believe you have hadsomething to do with it. You may be sorry now when it is too late. However, you must now exert yourself. Your father and the Bishop ofMons are old friends. You must endeavour to get the execution of thesepeople deferred for a few days. That will give me more time to devise ascheme for their escape. A little bribery will probably haveconsiderable effect. You have plenty of wealth, expend it liberally inthis cause; you may thus somewhat repair the harm you have done. "

Caspar promised to follow the advice of Peter, declaring that he wouldspend every guilder he possessed to aid his object. Day after daypassed by, the accused refused to recant, and the Inquisitor declaredthat he could not "longer delay affording the true Catholics in theplace the pleasure of seeing their Protestant fellow-citizens committedto the flames. "

Caspar bribed liberally as he promised, but though his money was takenthere was no good result. At length the day arrived when the executionswere to take place. A stage was erected with a gibbet on it and hugecasks of water. Below, on the solid ground, stakes with chains weredriven into the ground; while near the gibbet was a post with a chain inwhich those who were to be mercifully strangled before being thrown intothe flames were to be placed. It was a fearful-looking spectacle--fearful from its very simplicity. There was no parade nor decoration, nothing to conceal the naked horror of the work. 

CHAPTER FOUR. 

THE BEGGARS OF THE SEA--PETER CHERISHES NEW HOPES--PETER IS SENT AS ANENVOY FROM THE ROVERS--THE EXECUTIONS ARE SUSPENDED, AND CASPAR SENT TOTREAT WITH THE BEGGARS--CASPAR RESIGNS GRETCHEN TO DIEDRICH--THE BEGGARSOF THE SEA ATTACK BRILL--DIEDRICH VISITS THE INQUISITION--FATHER QUIXADAATTEMPTS TO KEEP HIS PRISONERS, BUT IS DEFEATED--BRILL IS CAPTURED BYTHE PROTESTANTS--AND BECOMES THE CRADLE OF THE DUTCH REPUBLIC. 

Peter Kopplestock was in despair. He had in vain attempted to obtain aninterview with his young niece, or to send her any message. Theprisoners were so strictly watched that he was unable even to send her amessage. Her death and that of her worthy father seemed sealed. Peterin despair returned to his post; it was time for him to be ready toferry passengers across the river. He had taken one party across, andwas returning once more to Brill, when down the river a fleet of severallarge vessels was seen standing up towards the town. Peter watched themwith interest. That they were not merchant vessels, he was well aware. They were not Spanish ships either. He came to the conclusion, therefore, that they must be the Beggars of the Sea. Concealing his ownfeelings, he informed his passengers, who wished to know his opinions. They were the powerful fleet of those redoubted rovers, and there couldbe little doubt that they had come up to attack Brill. By the time hehad fully worked upon the fears of his passengers, they arrived at thelanding-place on the side of the city. Instantly the whole party rushedup towards the town, spreading the alarming information they hadreceived. He told them also that for their sakes he would venture downthe river, and try and ascertain more particulars. Some urged him notto run so great a risk. He laughingly answered that it mattered little, that they could but hang him if he was caught, and that many an honestman was every day suffering a worse fate than that, thanks to the Dukeof Alva. 

Peter rowed away down the river as hard as he could urge on his boat. As he approached the fleet he was more convinced than ever that he wasright. The first vessel he hailed was commanded, he was told, byWilliam de Blois, Seigneur of Treslong, a noble whose brother had beenexecuted by the Duke of Alva, and who had himself fought by the side ofCount Louis at Yemmingen, where he was desperately wounded. 

Kopplestock was an old acquaintance of his, and was immediatelyrecognised. Treslong welcomed him warmly; he was the very man he wishedto meet. Peter, nothing loth, communicated at once the events goingforward in the city, and urged an immediate attack. Here was a means, he hoped, of saving his friends. 

"Depend upon it we are not anxious to delay, for the honest truth is, wehave scarcely a piece of biscuit or a lump of cheese remaining on boardany of the ships in the fleet. Our fellows are literally starving, andland we must, somewhere or other, and forage for food. However, come, my friend, we will go on board the admiral's ship, and hear what he saysto the proposal of an immediate attack. "

Treslong, getting into Peter's boat, proceeded forthwith to the ship ofAdmiral De la Marck. The first person Peter caught sight of on boardwas Diedrich Megheni. Even Peter thought he had never seen a wilder setof ruffians than the crew of the flag-ship, but they were all farsurpassed by the admiral himself. His hair was long and shaggy, hisbeard hung down over his chest, joined by his whiskers, pendant from hischeeks, while his huge moustache projected out far on either side. Hewas in no ways loth to attack the place. "My jolly Beggars will soonmake themselves masters of the town, " he observed; "but as you wish it, Treslong, we will see what diplomacy will do first. Who will take amessage to the magistrates of the city?"

"Our worthy friend Peter Kopplestock will do so, " observed Treslong. "Here, take my ring; it will accredit you as our envoy. If the townwill surrender, we promise to treat all the inhabitants withconsideration and tenderness; if not, they must take the consequences. "

Peter, receiving further directions, jumped into his boat, and hurriedback towards the town. 

The hour for the execution of the condemned heretics was approaching. If he could work upon the fears of the Inquisitor, they might yet besaved. 

While Peter is rowing with all his might up towards Brill, the suddenappearance of the ships of the Sea-beggars must be accounted for. Thefleet of De la Marck had been lying for some time in different ports inthe south of England, sallying forth occasionally and making prizes ofSpanish ships. It was the policy of Queen Elizabeth and her Governmentat this time to remain at peace; and the Duke of Alva's commissionershad been urging on her that the continued countenance afforded by theEnglish to the Beggars of the Sea must inevitably lead to a war withSpain. Towards the end of March, therefore, De la Marck received aperemptory order from Elizabeth to quit the shores of England, while hersubjects were forbidden to supply them with meat, bread, beer, or anyother necessaries. The rover fleet set sail, therefore, from Dover, onone of the last days in March, with scarcely any provisions on board. They stood over, accordingly, towards the coast of Zealand; and finallyentered, as has been described, the river Meuse. 

Peter quickly reached the town, and pushed through the crowd ofinhabitants, who came round him, asking him all sorts of questions, tonone of which he would reply, except to say that a large force of theWater-beggars, some thousands, as far as he could tell, were about toenter the city, and cut all their throats if they were opposed, or ifthey found that any of their friends had been injured. 

"Take care what the Inquisitors are about, " he added. "If these peoplewhom they have condemned to death are executed, depend upon it theWater-beggars will put every man and woman in the place to death. Justsee about that matter. "

Pushing on, he made his appearance in the town-house, where themagistrates were assembled. He told them that he had been sent by thefierce Admiral De la Marck, and by Treslong, who was well known to them;that two commissioners on the part of the city should be sent out toconfer with them. He had to assure them that the deputies would becourteously treated, and he was ordered to say that the only object ofthose who had sent him was to free the land, and to overthrow thetyranny of the Spaniards. 

"And how many men under him has De la Marck, do you think?" asked thechief magistrate. 

"It would be difficult for me to count them, " answered Peter, carelessly, "considering I only saw some of their ships; but there areprobably some five thousand in all, more or less; but they are desperatefellows, and equal to twice the number of ordinary mortals. "

On hearing this, the magistrates made long faces at each other. 

"It is clear that we cannot resist such a force, " observed one; "butwhat shall we do? Shall we negotiate, or shall we fly?"

"In my opinion, it would be judicious to do both, " observed a sagaciousold burgher. "We should negotiate in order to gain time to run away. "

"But which two men will be found to proceed to the rebel fleet as ourenvoys?" asked another. "It is an honourable post, is no one ready tofill it?"

There seemed a great likelihood of the negotiations breaking down forwant of envoys to carry them on. At this juncture Caspar Gaill made hisappearance in the court-house. 

"I will go, " he said, "on one condition: that the executions which wereto take place this morning are suspended. If we put to death thefellow-religionists of these people, they are not likely to treat uswith much mercy. "

The justice of Caspar's remark was at once seen; and in spite of theprotestations of the Inquisitor and the other priests, that it would beimpious to take their victims out of the hands of the Church, themagistracy decided that the criminals should be immediately respited. 

"If we determine on fighting, and put the enemy to flight, you holyfathers may then execute due punishment on the heretics, " observed oneof the magistrates; "but, in the meantime, we prefer not to subjectourselves to the rage of these desperate freebooters. "

Caspar quickly persuaded another friend to accompany him on board thefleet, and, rowed by Peter, they proceeded on board the admiral's ship. It was there the rivals met. Caspar, before entering the admiral'scabin, had just time to exchange a few words with Diedrich. 

"I resign Gretchen to you, " he whispered; "I am not worthy of her. Iacted a vile and treacherous part, and was very nearly the cause of thedestruction of her and her father. They are now, I trust, safe; unlessthose vile priests prove treacherous. At all events there is no time tobe lost in hastening on shore, that they may be completely rescued fromtheir power. "

As soon as the message of the magistrates was received, the sailorsquickly leaped into their boats, and hastened on shore. The rovers weredivided into two parties. One, under Treslong, made an attack upon thesouthern gates; while the other, commanded by the admiral, advanced uponthe northern. The governor of the city, it appeared, had not agreed tothe proposals of the magistrates, and had made preparations to resisttheir entrance. Hungry men, especially of the character of thesea-rovers, are not likely to be stopped by trifles. Treslong and hisfollowers forthwith attacked the gates with great fury. Just at themoment that they forced an entrance, the governor of the city wasendeavouring to take his departure. He was, however, arrested by therovers. Meantime De la Marck and his men, lighting a huge fire at thenorthern gate, rigged a battering-ram, formed out of a ship's mast; andas the fire burned the wood of the gates, they commenced battering awaywith might and main. The gates quickly gave way; and, dashing theembers of the fire aside, the bold sailors, sword in hand, rushed intothe town, and speedily found themselves masters of the place. Amongthose who had accompanied Treslong was Diedrich Meghem. PeterKopplestock had kept by his side. A choice band of seamen had followedDiedrich. 

"Follow me, lads, " he exclaimed, as soon as they were inside the gates;"our first work must be to set the prisoners of the Inquisition free. "

He and Peter rushed on, followed by a party of seamen. The Inquisitorsand monks endeavoured to prevent their entrance. The doors were verysoon battered in. Gretchen, who expected every instant to be led forthto execution, was on her knees in her cell. She heard the noise, littlesuspecting the cause. At that moment the door opened, and a monkappeared. She looked up, and beheld the stern features of FatherQuixada. There was a glance in his eye which made her tremble. 

"Have you come to lead me to death?" she asked. 

"No, I would give you your liberty; follow me. "

"No; I will not, " she exclaimed, regarding him with a look of horror. 

He rushed forward, and seized her by the arm, and was dragging her alongthe passage, when footsteps were heard approaching; and the ray ofsunlight which streamed along the passage fell on a party of men whowere hurrying through it. Their leader was Diedrich Meghem. With a cryof joy, Gretchen, tearing herself from the grasp of the monk, dartedforward towards another part of the prison. The patriot seamen soondiscovered the cell in which the merchant Hopper was confined, and heand all the other prisoners were quickly liberated. A large number ofthe citizens had escaped; but several monks and priests who had remainedin the convent were captured, as well as the governor and some othercivil authorities. Admiral De la Marck took possession of the town inthe name of the Prince of Orange. Thus the weary spirit of freedom, solong a fugitive over earth and sea, at length found a resting-place; andthe foundation of the Dutch Republic was laid in the little city ofBrill. No indignity was offered to the inhabitants of either sex, andall those who remained were treated with consideration. The captors, however, took possession of the best houses, and very naturally madethemselves at home. The inclination to plunder the churches, however, could not long be restrained. The altars and images were destroyed, while the rich furniture and the gorgeous vestments of the priests wereappropriated by the rovers. Adam van Haren, who commanded one of theships, appeared on his vessel's deck attired in a magnificent high-masschasuble; while his seamen dressed themselves up in the various othervestments which the Romish clergy had been wont to wear on their grandfestivals. So great was the hatred of the admiral for everythingconnected with the Church of Rome, that thirteen unfortunate monks andpriests, including Father Quixada, who had been taken prisoners, were, by his orders, a few days after the capture of the city, executed in thevery way that they had intended to put to death the victims of theInquisition. Caspar Gaill joined the fleet of De la Marck, and was soonafterwards killed in an action with some Spanish ships. In spite ofDuke Alva's attempt to retake Brill, the city remained ever afterwardsfaithful to the Prince of Orange. Diedrich and Gretchen were the firstpersons united according to the Protestant form in Brill, after itscapture, and their descendants have ever been among its most respectedinhabitants. 

CHAPTER FIVE. 

FRANK CARLTON--A STORY OF NIAGARA

NIAGARA--ITS GRANDEUR AND DANGERS--FANNY REJECTS FRANK BECAUSE HE IS NOTA HERO--SCARCITY OF HEROES--FANNY'S NEPHEWS GET INTO A BOAT--THEY DRIFTAWAY--NO HOPE--HELP AT THE LAST--A FEARFUL STRUGGLE--FANNY FINDS FRANKIS A HERO AFTER ALL. 

Niagara, the father of waters! The name is significant of somethinggrand; words are inadequate to describe the mighty cataract. The waterswhich rush down from Lake Superior, passing through Lake Huron and LakeSaint Clair, and onward across Lake Erie, finally force their course ina northern direction into Lake Ontario. On first leaving Lake Erie, they flow in a tranquil current, and divide, leaving an island in thecentre, on which a thousand cattle save one are said to feed. Then therapidity of the current increases, till those who voyage on its bosomsee in front of them, raised high in the blue sky, a cloud of vapour. This is said to be the crown of Niagara, the vapoury particlescollecting from the boiling caldron below. 

Proceeding onward, a roaring sound is heard, the current increases inrapidity, and ahead appears a line of foaming breakers. Those who onceget within their power must give up all hope of life. No vessel builtwith mortal hands can live amidst those furious rapids. In the centre arocky island appears, thickly covered with trees, and while one portionof the stream rushes directly on, and takes a leap downwards of 200feet, the other and smaller portion, sweeping round Goat Island, findsits way into the lower level, over the cliff on the right bank of theriver. The last-mentioned fall is known as the American fall, as theterritory on that side of the river belongs to the United States. 

Onward the waters rush, between lofty cliffs, at a distance of threemiles, when they meet an opposing rock, and, circling round and round, form a fearful whirlpool. No one falling into that circling eddy hasever escaped with life. The stoutest boat would soon be dashed topieces. 

At length the waters find their way out by a narrow passage, and rushonward into Lake Ontario. A long fall across the direct current of theRiver is known as the Horseshoe Fall. Standing on the British bank ofthe stream, it is seen on the right, with the American fall directlyopposite the spectator. In the latter fall many fearful accidents haveoccurred. 

The scenery above the Falls is very different to that below. In thelatter the banks are high and precipitous, and the stream flows on 200feet below the summit of the cliffs. Above the cataract, on thecontrary, the river presents the appearance rather of a large lake. Thewoods, consisting of firs, and birch, and maple, come close down to thewater, their branches overhanging the stream. Here and there areclearings. Many mills moved by water power, and numerous farms, extendalong the banks on either side. 

It was somewhere above the rapids that a young man, clad in homelycostume but with the appearance and bearing of a gentleman, was walkingby the river's brink. By his side was a fair girl. He was speaking toher earnestly and gently, but she seemed to be turning an indifferentear to his words. 

"I acknowledge your merits, Mr Carlton, but really I cannot see that Ishould be expected to give my heart and hand, as you ask me, to one whohas not done anything to show that he is above the ordinary run ofrespectable young gentlemen. " The girl spoke in a somewhat banteringtone. 

"But really, Miss Fanny Aveling, you are expecting too much at thepresent day. Gentlemen cannot go forth with a lance and fight intournaments, as in days of yore, to win the admiration of the ladies oftheir love. I offer you an honest heart, and I have every reason tobelieve I shall establish a comfortable home; and really I think that isa more sensible thing than running the risk of getting a knock on thehead for no purpose whatever. "

"How fearfully matter-of-fact you are, " answered Fanny. "I tell you Ido not like matter-of-fact people. If you had been a soldier or sailor, and had fought the battles of your country, and got wounded, andobtained a number of medals for your gallantry, I might possibly havefelt differently towards you. "

"But I have had no opportunity of doing anything of the sort, " urgedFrank Carlton. "I came out here to form an estate, and I have succeededin what I undertook, while a number of other persons with similaropportunities have failed. I do not say this for the sake of boasting, but simply as a fact which is certainly not discreditable. "

"Humdrum, " answered the young lady, half to herself. "Numbers have doneas well. "

"So they have, " said Frank Carlton, "and are married and settled, andhave every reason to be thankful that they came to the country. "

"Well, Mr Carlton, there is no use carrying on the conversationfurther, " exclaimed Fanny: "You ask me to give you my heart and hand; Ifrankly confess I have no inclination to do so. "

"But, surely, you have led me to suppose you would, " said Frank, in atone of reproach. 

"That was when I did not think you in earnest, " said Fanny. "If you hadsaid this before, I should have given you an answer which might thenhave satisfied you. "

"Nothing will satisfy me but `yes, '" said Frank, "for I believe that youhave more sense than you pretend to have. "

"That is to say, you think I have sense enough to love you, " said Fanny, still in a tone of banter. "We part as friends, however, and if youinsist on coming to call upon my sister, Mrs Barton, of course I cannothelp it, only do not for a moment suppose that I give you anyencouragement. "

Frank Carlton, having graduated at Oxford, had come out a few yearsbefore to set up as a farmer in Canada. He had enjoyed the advantage ofstudying under a Scotch farmer for a year, and this gave him moreknowledge of agricultural affairs than is possessed by many of the youngmen who go out to settle. He had also given his mind to the work, andwhat was of great importance, had withstood the temptations to idlenessinto which so many fall. He was also a man of refined tastes andhabits, which he did not allow the rough life of a settler to make himabandon. Captain and Mrs Barton were among his nearest neighbours. Hehad been for some time a constant visitor at the house, and two littleboys, the children of Mrs Barton, were his especial favourites. 

Fanny Aveling had, the year before, come out from England, and not longafter her arrival Frank Carlton began to reflect that his house would bein a far better condition than it was at the present, if he could placea mistress at its head. He had had no reason to suppose that MissAveling was indifferent towards him, until the day on which theconversation which has been described took place. He was still, it mustbe owned, somewhat in doubt about the matter. He did not suppose thatshe cared for anybody else; indeed he knew of no visitor at the houselikely to have won her affections. He therefore, as most men would havedone under similar circumstances, lived on in the hope of ultimatelywinning her. Still, week after week passed, and though he made frequentvisits to Captain Barton's, Miss Aveling's manner towards him remainedtotally unchanged. At length, sanguine as he was, he began to fear thathe had misplaced his affections. He also grew distant in his mannertowards her, and he seldom paid a visit to the house of his formerfriends. 

Mrs Barton could not but suspect the cause, for she, it must be owned, was favourable to Frank Carlton, and thought that her sister could notmake a more desirable match. 

"What more can you require in a man than Frank possesses, Fanny?" shesaid one day to her sister. 

"Yes, " observed Fanny, "he is honest, and he does not smoke, and he doesnot drink, and he does not use bad language, that I know of, and he'svery respectable; in fact, in my opinion, he is made up of negatives. "

"Oh, you foolish girl!" exclaimed Mrs Barton; "you want him to threatento leave you for ever, or to jump down the Falls, or to commit someother outrageous act, and then perhaps your feelings would be worked up, and you would be ready to entreat him to remain and be yours. "

"No, I tell you I don't care for him, that I know of, and don't knowthat I ever shall, " answered Fanny, petulantly. "I have made up mymind, when he next comes, to let him understand that very clearly. "

As it happened, Frank paid another visit the following day to theBartons. Fanny certainly did contrive to show him that there were nohopes of her becoming his wife. 

He would make a tour through the country, visit Toronto, Montreal, andperhaps go down to Quebec. Or he would make a trip to the Far West, across Lake Superior to the Red River Settlement, and visit the smallband of his countrymen collected there. At first he thought he wouldstart at once, and not pay a farewell visit to the Bartons. 

It happened that Mrs Barton, her sister, and her two little boys, Frank's favourites, Ernest and Harry, were strolling about by the bankof the river. They had gone somewhere down in the direction of therapids, when Fanny exclaimed that the scenery, already tinged by thebright hue of autumn, was so beautiful that she must stop and make asketch. 

The two sisters sat down on the bank, while Fanny, with the hand of anartist, rapidly sketched the scene. She had to employ the most gorgeouscolours which her colour-box could supply, and even then could scarcelygive sufficient brightness to the landscape. While she was sketching, the little boys ran along the bank, where, moored to the shore, theyfound a boat, and very naturally got into it. Their mother and aunt didnot observe them. They got out the oars, and began to make believe thatthey were rowing. Now they pulled on one side and then on the other. Harry, the youngest, tired of rowing, put in the oar, and began to playwith the "painter. " The boat had been carelessly secured, and by somemeans or other he let the painter slip. Ernest, in the meantime, whowas still rowing, turned the boat round, and before the boys knew whatwas happening, they were drifting from the shore. Already, before theysaw their danger, they were too far off to regain the bank. Often theyhad been told of the fearful risk of being carried off by the current. They screamed with fear. Their cries aroused their mother and aunt. Several people also had been attracted by them from a neighbouring farm, but no boat was to be seen at hand in which they could be followed. Already the boat was moving down the current. It was still somedistance from the rapids: but, unless stopped in its course, it musteventually reach them. 

Mrs Barton and Fanny cried in vain to the spectators to aid in rescuingthe children. Some of the men ran along the bank up the stream, butothers stood still, and declared they had no power to save the children. 

"Still, if you would but swim in, you might get on board the boat beforeit has gone far, " exclaimed Mrs Barton. 

"And run a pretty fair chance of losing our own lives, " was the replymade by some of the men. 

Some way down, another boat was at length seen. It was a small, frailskiff, and moored very near the commencement of the rapids. 

"Will any one try and save my children?" exclaimed Mrs Barton indespair. 

Again the men shook their heads. 

"Not for a thousand pounds. Before one could reach the boat in thatrotten canoe, she would be among the rapids. "

The fond mother and Fanny became almost frantic with despair. Just atthat moment a figure was seen bounding down from a neighbouring height. In an instant, with a knife, he cut the painter securing the skiff tothe shore. A pair of paddles were in the skiff. He leaped in andshoved off from the bank. Mrs Barton knew him, and so did Fanny. 

"It's Frank Carlton!" they exclaimed. "Oh, blessings on him! May Godprotect him!"

Already the boat was approaching the commencement of the rapids. Oncein their power, even his sturdy arms could scarcely stem the current. Not for one moment did he calculate the difficulty or danger he was toundergo. With rapid strokes he pursued the floating boat. How eagerlydid the fond mother watch his proceedings! She stood apparently calm onthe bank, only now and then extending her arms, as if she would drawback the boat which contained her loved ones. 

Still, to those who looked on it seemed scarcely possible that thechildren could escape. If they were lost, so also would be FrankCarlton. Still he pursued. The motion of the boat which contained theboys showed its near approach to the rapids. In two or three minutes itwould be within their power. It seemed hardly credible that he couldreach it even in that time. Onward he went, every now and then turninghis head round to watch the boat. Already it began to leap and toss. The water foamed around it. 

"See! he has got alongside!" exclaimed the people from the shore; "butwill he have strength to stem the current on his return?"

A glance showed him that two oars were in the boat. Leaving his canoeto its fate, he leaped into the boat, and seized the oars. Now came afearful struggle. Should an oar give way, he and his young friends mustinevitably be lost. He nerved himself for the undertaking by offeringup prayer for strength to One who alone can give it. Grasping the oars, he placed his feet firmly at the bottom of the boat, and rowed manfully. At first it seemed to those who looked on that he made no way. Theboat's head was up the stream, but still she seemed to be going slowlyand surely downwards. He struggles on. The water foams around the boaton every side. Yes! he is making way--he has gained an inch, anotherand another. Slowly the boat moves onward, out of the power of therapids. A foot is gained. Still, by the exertions he is making, hisstrength must become exhausted. He rows on and on; the boat makesheadway. Surely the prayers of that fond mother are heard. The gallantyoung man renews his exertions. He is resolved, God helping him, tosave the children. He thinks not of himself, or what will be theconsequences to his own frame. The veins seem starting from hisforehead. Those only who have gone through such a contest, canunderstand what he had to endure. The people from the neighbouringfarms now eagerly crowd the shores, ready to render him assistance whenhe reaches it. Some, however, even now doubt whether he will accomplishthe undertaking. Should his strength fail, even for an instant, theboat would quickly be carried back, with those on board, to destruction. With all his strength he continues rowing, looking neither to the righthand nor the left. His eyes are on the young children who sit crouchingdown in terror at the bottom of the boat. With a smile, he endeavoursto encourage them. Again and again he cries to Heaven for strength. Gradually the boat approaches the shore. Now it has reached an upwardeddy. Still he rows on, and the boat safely reaches the bank. Scarcelyconscious of his success, he is lifted out of the boat, and eager handsrestore the children to their mother. She clasps them to her bosom, andpours out her gratitude to their deliverer. But there is one kneelingby his side who entreats those who stand by to bring some water to bathehis brow. The handkerchief tied round his throat is loosened. Hereturns to consciousness, and sees Fanny Aveling bending over him. In ashort time he declares himself sufficiently recovered to walk, and ajoyful party returned to Barton Lodge. 

Our tale is finished. Though he returned home that evening, Frank couldnot do otherwise than, the following morning, visit Barton Lodge, toenquire after the boys. Fanny Aveling no longer received him as hadbeen her wont. 

"You have done something, " she exclaimed. "Yes, I see it is notnecessary for a man to go and fight, and kill his fellow-creatures, tobe a hero. Oh, Frank, what a very silly girl I have been!"

Frank assured her he was confident she would be a wise woman in future, and it is scarcely necessary to add that Frank's establishment soon hada mistress at its head. 

CHAPTER SIX. 

FAITHFUL AND BRAVE

A BIG SCAMP AND A TRUE MAN--ELLIS VISITED BY HIS SWEETHEART--READS HISBIBLE ON BOARD SHIP--TRIALS AND PERSECUTIONS--ELLIS KNOCKS JONES DOWN--DANGER--JONES SHIRKS AND ELLIS ENCOUNTERS IT--A CHRISTIAN WOMAN'S TEST--A TERRIBLE PREDICAMENT--THE MIDDY SAVED BY ELLIS--AND THE SAILORSASCRIBE IT TO THE POWER OF PRAYER. 

I was many years ago, first-lieutenant of the _Rainbow_ frigate. Wewere fitting out alongside the old _Topaz_ hulk, in Portsmouth Harbour, for the North American and West India stations, at that time unitedunder one command. We were nearly ready for sea, but still were a goodmany hands short of our complement. For want of better, we had enteredseveral men, who would, I was afraid, prove but hard bargains; oneespecially, who gave the name of John Jones, was a great, big, hulkingfellow, with an unpleasant expression of countenance, out of whom Iguessed but little work was to be got. The same day he joined, anotherman came aboard and volunteered. He was a fine, active, intelligentfellow. He said that his name was William Ellis, and that he had beeneight years at sea, in the merchant service. If there was little workin Jones, there was plenty in him I saw, though he was a remarkablyquiet-looking man. He answered the questions put to him, but did notvolunteer a word about himself. 

We had gone out to Spithead, and the Blue Peter was flying aloft, when ashore boat came alongside. In the boat was a young woman, nicely, though very plainly dressed, and a lad, who looked like her brother. She asked leave to come on board, and inquired for William Ellis. Elliswas aloft. His name had been loudly called along the lower deck, before, casting his eyes below, having finished his work, they fell onher. She gave a half-shriek of terror as she saw him, quick aslightning, gliding down the rigging. He, in another moment, was by herside. A blush was on his manly cheek, as he took her hand and warmlypressed it. They talked earnestly for some time. He did not ask her tomove from the spot where they stood. At length, with a sigh, havingshaken hands with the lad, he prepared to help her into the boat. Herlast words, pronounced in a firm, though sweet voice, were, "Oh!remember. "

I was particularly struck by her quiet, modest manner, and her pleasing, intelligent expression of countenance. We had despatches for Jamaicaand other West India Islands, which we visited in turn. Elliscontinued, as at first, one of the most quiet, well-behaved men in theship. Every moment of his watch below--that is to say, when off duty--he was engaged in reading, chiefly, as I afterwards found, the Bible. In those days, a Bible on the lower deck was a rarity, and religiousbooks were still less often seen. The _Rainbow_ formed no exception tothe rule, and Ellis got to be looked at with suspicion and dislike bythe greater number of the men. He was equally disliked by some of theofficers. The reason was clear--his life and example was a reproach tothem. 

We had not been long in that treacherous clime before "Yellow Jack, " assailors call the yellow fever, came on board. Numbers of our crew werespeedily down with it. Several died, and the pestilence increased. Theship's company, as sometimes occurs, took a panic, and men who wouldboldly have faced a visible enemy, trembled with dread at the thoughtsof being struck down by the fever. It was difficult to get men toattend properly on the sick. Ellis was an exception; he immediatelyvolunteered for that duty, and was indefatigable in its performance. Hedid more, I found; he spoke words of counsel and encouragement to thesick and dying; he pointed out to them the Saviour, on whom looking withrepentance and faith in His all-sufficient work, they might be assuredof forgiveness. 

Harry Lethbridge, a young midshipman, was among the first attacked. Ellis carefully watched over the boy. Whenever he had performed hisother duties, he returned to the side of the hammock in which Harry lay, bathed his face, sponged out his mouth, and gave him cooling drinks, like the most gentle of nurses. More than once the doctor told me, however, that he was afraid the young midshipman would slip through hisfingers, and he afterwards said that he considered it was mostly owingto the very great attention paid to him by Ellis that he had escaped. Ellis did more; he spoke to Harry, when his strength was returning, in away to touch his heart, --he told him how he had been saved from the jawsof death by a God who loved his soul, and he showed how alone that soulcould be saved, and how freely and fully it would be saved, if he wouldbut accept the redemption offered him. 

Notwithstanding the way Ellis had behaved during the fever, John Jones, and men of his stamp, of whom there were many, continued to sneer at himon account of his religion. "Any old woman, or young girl, could havedone as well as he did, --nursing a few sick men and boys: what wasthat!" they said. "It didn't make him a bit more of a man. "

From the West Indies we were sent to North America, to do away with theeffects of the fever. Knowing what a quiet man Ellis was, I wassomewhat surprised when one day, on the passage to Halifax, John Jonescame up to me on deck, fuming with rage, and preferred a formal chargeagainst him, for having assaulted and thrashed him. I, of course, as induty bound, sent for Ellis, and witnesses on both sides, to examine intothe case. Ellis appeared, hat in hand, and at once acknowledged that hehad thrashed Jones, but offered as an excuse that Jones and other menhad systematically annoyed him whenever he sat down to read the Bible, and that at last Jones, encouraged by his previous forbearance, hadsnatched up the book and made off with it, threatening to throw itoverboard. "I could bear it no longer, sir, " said Ellis; "so I knockedhim over, that I might get back my Bible, and read it afterwards inpeace. Besides, sir, he said that people who read the Bible are neverworth anything, only just fit to nurse sick people, and that come a galeof wind, or any danger, they would always be found skulking below. "

"In that respect you, Jones, are wrong, and you had no business tosnatch away Ellis's Bible; but you, Ellis, broke through the rules ofdiscipline by knocking Jones over. You must reserve your blows for theenemies of your country. I must therefore punish you. It is your firstoffence, but it is too serious a one to be overlooked. Go below. "

I inflicted as light a punishment as I well could on Ellis. After hehad undergone it, he came to me and expressed his regret at having losthis temper, without in any way attempting to exculpate himself. 

We reached Halifax, remained there a fortnight refitting, and againsailed to cruise off the coast. Nova Scotia possesses a rocky, forbidding shore, near which a seaman would dislike to be caught with agale blowing on it. One night, on a passage round to Prince Edward'sIsland, we had kept closer in shore, in consequence of the fineness ofthe weather, than would, under other circumstances, have been prudent. The captain was ill below. Suddenly the wind shifted, and blew directlyon shore. I was called up, and hurrying on deck, saw at once that wewere to have a rough night of it. 

The first thing to be done was to get a good offing. Accordingly Ihauled to the wind, and as it was not yet blowing very hard, I kept thecanvas on her which had previously been set. Suddenly a squall, itsapproach unseen, struck the ship, and before a sheet could be started, the main-topgallant yard was carried away, and the spar, wildly beatingabout in the now furiously-blowing gale, threatened to carry away, notonly the topgallant mast, but the topmast itself. The loss of more ofour spars at such a moment might have been disastrous in the extreme. To clear away the spar was, therefore of the greatest importance, but itwas an operation which would expose those who attempted it to the mostimminent dangers. 

I sung out for volunteers. At that moment seeing Jones standing nearme, I could not help saying, "Come, my man, there's work for you; youwere boasting of your manhood the other day!" The first to springforward to my call was William Ellis. 

"No, " I answered; "I have made the offer to Jones. He ought to succeedif any man can. "

Jones looked aloft, then shook his head. 

"I dare not; the man who attempts it will be sure to lose his life. "

Ellis, as if anticipating the reply Jones would make, had been securingan axe to his belt; having felt the edge to assure himself that it wassharp. Scarcely had Jones finished speaking, than, exclaiming, "I'llgo!" he was ascending the main rigging. 

I watched him with intense anxiety as long as I could see him, but hewas soon lost to sight in the gloom of night up aloft there amid thetightening ropes, the straining mast, and the loosened sail andshattered spar, which kept driving backwards and forwards and round andround with terrific violence. I kept my eyes fixed on the spot where Iknew he must be. Now I thought I saw him clinging on to the riggingwith one hand, while with the other, his axe gleaming above his head, hemade stroke after stroke at the ropes by which the topgallant yard stillhung to the mast. Had he been hurled from the rigging, the ocean wouldhave been his tomb, for, heeling over as the ship was, he would havefallen far to leeward. I fully expected such would be his fate; itmight be mine too, for I was determined to make the attempt if othersfailed. I thought of the young woman who had visited him on board, andof her sorrowing heart. My eye caught sight of something falling. Wasit Ellis? No! A shout rose from the crew. Down came the shatteredspar and the torn sail clear of everything, and fell into the foaming, hissing waters, through which the frigate was forcing her way. Thetopgallant mast stood uninjured. Ellis the next minute was beside me onthe deck. 

"Thank you, Ellis; you did that work nobly, " I said to him. "I thinkthat no one in future will venture to taunt you for your Bible-readingpropensities. "

I was now able to send the hands aloft to shorten sail, and I fullybelieve that our masts, and the ship herself, and our lives, were savedby that act of courage. I afterwards asked Ellis how he felt whenaloft. 

"That I was in the hands of God, sir, " he answered. "I prayed for Hisprotection, and I never felt my heart more light, or my courage morefirm. " [See Note. ]

As may be supposed, no one after this ventured to call Ellis a milksop, or to speak disparagingly of him in any other way. Jones sunk in publicestimation as Ellis rose, and gained great influence among the ship'scompany, which he did not fail to use to their benefit. He stillfurther increased it by another act, which, however, was not so much aproof of courage as of presence of mind, only the sailors declared, witha tinge of superstition, that no other man on board could have done it. I will mention it presently. 

I frequently spoke to Ellis in a way an officer cannot venture to do, except to a well-tried man. One day I asked him if he did not wish towrite to his wife, as I had the opportunity of sending letters. 

"I am not married, sir, " he answered, calmly. "That young woman yousaw, sir, Mary Summers, has promised to marry me when I get back, if Ican prove to her that I have acted all the time I have been away like aChristian man. It's a long story too, and I won't trouble you with itnow; only Mary has very strong notions, and very right notions too. Iwasn't once what I now try to be. I was altogether careless aboutreligion. I fell in love with Mary, and tried my best to appear good, and so far succeeded that I won her love. When, however, she found outwhat I really was she said that nothing would induce her to marry meunless I was a Christian. She gave me books and I read them, and I readthe Bible as I had never read it before, and she talked to me till Ithought that I was what she wanted me to be; but she said that peoplecouldn't tell what they really were till they were out in the busy worldand tried, and that I must be tried before she could venture to marryme. At first I thought her terms very hard; but I do assure you, sir, when I came to know more of the Gospel I felt that they were wise andjust. It's a very different thing to appear all right and correct, andto feel very good too, in a quiet village, with a religious, sensibleyoung woman to watch over one, than to keep straight aboard a man-of-waramong a number of godless associates. In one case a man may almostforget the necessity of earnest prayer. I do assure you sir, I havefelt aboard here that I could not get on an hour without it. "

Reader, remember these words of Ellis. Consider how you will act whenyou are tried and tempted. Satan often lets people alone when he findsthem in an easy position, that they may grow conceited of their ownstrength. Never cease praying that you may see his wiles, and that, through the Holy Spirit, you may be enabled to resist them, but never, never trust to your own strength, or you will be sure to fall. 

Some two years after this, when Harry Lethbridge had grown into a fineyoung man, promising to be as smart an officer as any in the navy, wewere on our passage between the northern and southern portions of ourstation, when we were caught in as heavy a gale as I ever experienced--acomplete hurricane. It came down on us so suddenly that it required allhands to shorten sail as smartly as they could do. Among those whosprang aloft when the hands were turned up was Harry Lethbridge, whosestation was the foretop. The post of honour among seamen in reefingsails is the weather earing. [Note. An earing is a rope to haul up theouter part of a sail. ] Thus when the fore-topsail was to be reefed, Harry eagerly sought, and was the first man out on, the yard-arm. Whilereefing the sail, on hauling out the earing, from the strength of thewind, and from his anxiety to get it done quickly, he did not haul thefirst turn sufficiently taut. After taking the second, and getting agood pull on it, the first earing rendered suddenly, and, losing hisbalance, he fell over the yard. Those who saw him as I did thought hewas gone, but no; as he fell he had kept hold of the earing, and therehe hung, suspended by it about nine feet below the yard-arm and fullsixty from the deck, though, of course, far outside it, that is to say, over the boiling ocean. 

Those on deck looked up, almost paralysed with the terrible spectacle. His destruction seemed inevitable. His hands were giving way. Hecaught the rope in his teeth, and thus he hung suspended, alive andstrong, with the joyous spirits and anticipations of youthful manhood, and yet with death as it were gaping for him. The man nearest to him onthe yard threw towards him the end of a rope, but it was blown away toleeward out of his reach. The captain instantly directed that a runningbowline knot should be made round the earing, and thus lowered over hishead; but his voice was drowned by the gale. Cries of horror escapedfrom the lips of all who saw him. "A man overboard! a man overboard!"was shouted out, for every one expected to see him fall into the sea. William Ellis had never taken his eye off him. I saw him hurry forward. Poor Harry could hold on no longer. His hands relaxed their gripe ofthe rope, his teeth gave way, he fell. As he did so, the ship lurchedheavily to leeward and he came towards the forecastle. Ellis sprangforward, and as Harry's feet touched the deck, caught him in his arms. The midshipman's life was preserved, and the only injury he received wasthe fracture of one of his ankle-bones. [Note. The whole of thisaccount is fact, without the slightest alteration. ] "He's the only manwho could have done it, though, " I afterwards heard some of the seamenremark. "He prayed that he might do it, and he did it, do ye see. "Even the irreligious often acknowledge the efficacy of the prayers ofChristian men. 

William Ellis persevered in his Christian course till the ship was paidoff, when I saw his Mary, who had come to Portsmouth to welcome him. They married; he obtained a warrant as a gunner, and some yearsafterwards, through the influence of Harry Lethbridge, got a goodappointment on shore. The young midshipman, feeling that his life had, through God's mercy, been preserved that he might do Him service, becamea thorough Christian, in practice as well as in name, and a first-rateofficer; while Ellis continued as he had begun, aided and encouraged, Ihave no doubt, by his excellent wife, to the end of his life. 

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Note. This account was given to the author by the late AdmiralSaumarez, and the words are to the best of his recollection those usedby the man who performed the act recorded. 

CHAPTER SEVEN. 

THE TWO SAILOR-BOYS, A TRUE TALE

NED BURTON LOSES HIS MOTHER, AND IS LEFT PENNILESS--WALKS TO PORTSMOUTH, AND IS DISHEARTENED--IS CHEERED, DIRECTED, AND HELPED BY OLD MOLL--GETSON BOARD THE TRAINING SHIP--AND MAKES A FRIEND--BUT IS REJECTED FOR NOTBEING ABLE TO READ--COMFORTED BY BILL HUDSON--BILL'S SHIPMATES HELP NEDTO FIELD LANE--BILL TAKES HIM THERE--HE IS KINDLY RECEIVED--IS MADE ASAILOR OF AT LAST. 

On a miserable pallet bedstead, in a small attic of one of the meanesthouses in the lowest portion of a provincial town in the south ofEngland, a woman lay dying. The curtainless window and window--panes, stuffed with straw, the scanty patchwork covering to the bed, the singlerickety chair, the unswept floor, the damp, mildewed walls, the doorfalling from its hinges, told of pinching poverty. On the oppositecorner to the bedstead there was a heap of straw, to serve as anotherbed, and against the wall a much-battered sea-chest and an open basket, containing even now a few rotting oranges, some damaged tapes, and sucharticles as are vended by small hawkers. Standing by the bed-side was alad with an intelligent, not ill-favoured, countenance, though sickly, and expressive of deep grief, as he gazed on the face of one who hadever been a kind mother to him, and from whom he now knew full well thathe was to be parted for ever. 

"Ned, my boy, I have done my best to keep myself and thee from theworkhouse, " said the woman, trying to lift herself up on her arm, thatshe might the better see the lad. "It has been a hard struggle, but Ihave done it for thy father's sake. He was a sailor, and would neverhave thought to see me come to this pass. Thou must be one, too, Ned. It's a rough life, but better far than starving on shore. I've donelittle for thee, lad, but feed thee, and try to teach thee to be honest, as thy father was. Be honest, Ned, whatever ye do, for thy poormother's sake. But for thee, lad, I'd have left the weary world many along year ago. "

"Oh, mother, mother, stay now--oh, do!" cried the lad. "Won't thedoctor help you--won't the parson?"

"No, lad; no doctor, no parson, can keep me here. But I'd like to seethe parson. Maybe he'd tell me about the place I'm going to; for it'sfar off, I wot, and little I know of the road. "

"Oh, mother, I'll run and fetch him. "

Just as Ned was going, the dying woman sunk down, exhausted withtalking. "Don't leave me, boy, " she faintly murmured; "it's too latenow. May God hear a widow's prayer, and be merciful to you, and forgiveme. "

Her voice sank--the last words were gasped out. Her son bent his headto hear her: he stood gazing at her face, expecting to hear her speakagain. Gradually he became aware that he was alone in the world. Hisgrief was too deep for tears. For hours he stood there, watching theface of the only being who had cared for him in the world; and then NedBurton went out and did as she had before bade him, and, with the moneyshe had hoarded up for the purpose, and that produced by the sale of thelast few articles in the house, save his father's sea-chest, obtainedfor her an humble funeral, truly, but not that of a pauper. Then, leaving the chest with a neighbour till he should return and claim it, he went forth penniless into the world to seek his fortune. 

Ned Burton's ambition was to be a sailor--not that he knew anything ofthe sea, except that his father had spent his life on it. His mothercould not read or write, and, unable to instruct him or to pay for hisinstruction, being, indeed, too poor to do without the pittance hislabours brought, she had allowed him to grow up in extreme ignorance--though, according to the faint light that was in her, she had taughthim, to the best of her power, to do right. Still, poor Ned knewnothing of religion. He had never been taught even to pray. Thus, helpless and forlorn, he went forth to battle with the world. Aneighbour had told him that big ships sailed from Portsmouth, so towardsPortsmouth he bent his steps, inquiring his way as he went. A few ofthose who knew him, and had bought his mother's oranges and bobbins, gave him a few pence, and filled his wallet with crusts of bread, andscraps of cheese and bacon, so that he had not to beg for food. 

At night he slept under haystacks or hedges, or in empty barns, and thusin time he reached Portsmouth, sore-footed, weary, and hungry, forduring the last day his wallet had been empty. 

Wandering down the High Street, he passed through a large gateway, andout on a common, from whence he caught sight of the blue sea, andseveral huge ships floating on it, but they were too far out to reach, and he had no money to pay for a boat; and he would have gained nothinghad he reached them, for a poor ragged boy like him would not have beenreceived on board. So he went back the way he had come. He askedseveral people if they could tell him how he could get on board ship, but they must have thought that he was silly, for they smiled and passedon. 

He had begun to think that he should never obtain his wishes, when closeto the Southsea Gate he saw an old apple-woman sitting at her stall. She brought his mother to mind. She looked kind, too, so he asked her. Something in his manner touched Old Moll's heart. She asked him severalquestions, and then said, "Sure, yes; there's what they call atraining-ship for boys--the old ---, off the Dockyard, at Portsea. They, maybe, will take you. Here's sixpence to get aboard; and here--you look hungry, lad--is some gingerbread and apples--they'll do yougood; and now God speed you! Go straight on--you can't miss the way, and come and tell me some day how you've fared. "

Ned went on through narrow lanes and dirty streets, till he came nearthe shore of the harbour, which was crowded with vessels of all sizes. 

"If one won't have me, surely another will, " he said to himself, as hegazed with wonder at some of the line-of-battle ships. "They must wanta precious number of people to fill those great things. "

He now began to inquire which was the old ---, where boys were received. He was told that he couldn't see her from there--that she was higher upthe harbour; but none of the boatmen he spoke to seemed disposed to takehim on board. In vain he promised his sixpence. He had gone out to theend of one of the slips from the Common Hard, when two seamen and asailor lad came down, carrying baskets, evidently full of provisions, and directed one of the boatmen who had just refused him to take them onboard the old ---. As they were stepping into the wherry, the boatmanbeckoned to Ned, and told him that he could now go. He took his seatnext to the lad, who, in spite of his own clean white trousers, and blueshirt with worked collar, and fresh straw hat, seemed in no way todespise his ragged dress. In a kind tone he asked Ned why he was goingon board. Ned told him. 

"Hope you'll succeed, mate, " he observed. "A year ago, I was like you--only paler and thinner, and maybe fewer clothes to my back--and trembledwhen I went aloft; and now there are not many aboard can reach themain-truck from the deck before me, or lay out smarter on a yard. "

The tide was against them, so that Ned had time to tell his newacquaintances a good deal of his history before they reached the ship. They all seemed to take an interest in him, especially the lad--a fine, strong ruddy-faced young fellow of sixteen. 

"Well, just do you ask for Bill Hudson--that's me--after you've seen thefirst lieutenant and the doctor; and then I'll tell you what to do, "said the latter. "You might lose yourself, do ye see, otherwise, aboutthere. "

When they arrived alongside the huge ship, and Ned proffered hissixpence, the men wouldn't let him pay it, but helped him up the sidethrough the entrance port, when he found himself, for the first time, onthe main-deck of a man-of-war. While Bill Hudson went to find theproper person to take him to the officers for examination, he was lostin wonder, looking at the huge guns, with their polished gear, thecountless number, it seemed, of boys and men moving about--all socleanly and neatly dressed--and the spotless decks, white as a woodenplatter. 

At length he was summoned. He trembled with agitation, for he felt sodirty, and poor, and miserable, that he thought the officers, when theysaw him, would quickly turn him out of the ship again. The firstlieutenant, however, important as he looked, seemed pleased with hisappearance and manner; the surgeon pronounced him a healthy, able-bodiedlad, fit for the service; but he had brought no certificates ofparentage or age. Had he his parents' permission to come to sea? he wasasked. They were both dead: he had no friends; but he produced a tincase which had been his father's. The contents showed that the ownerhad been a petty officer in the navy, and had borne an excellentcharacter. But another question was put; could he read and write? (Noboys could be received at that time unless they possessed thoseaccomplishments. ) Poor Ned had to confess that he was ignorant of botharts. 

He was finally rejected. There was no help for it; though, as hisfather's certificate-case was returned to him, the officers expressed ahope that he might be some day accepted, if he could learn. 

He went forward, much dejected, to find Bill Hudson; for this was butsmall consolation to him. How could he learn to read and write, whenall his strength would be required to obtain food for his subsistence?So he thought. 

Bill heard his account of what had happened. 

"If you had said that you couldn't read and write, I could have told youwhat would happen. But, don't be cast down, Ned. Little more thanthree years ago, I couldn't read nor write, and hadn't shoes to my feet, and scarce a rag on my back. I was a poor outcast boy, without fatheror mother--no shelter for my head, and often no food to eat. I pickedup a living as I could, holding horses, running errands, when anybodywould trust me. I didn't steal, but I was often and often very neardoing so, as I passed the butchers', and fruiterers', and bakers'shops--just to fill my empty stomach. It wasn't so much because Iwouldn't do it, as because I knew that they kept a sharp look-out, and Ishould have been caught. At last I thought I would try it on; and Ididn't care if I was sent to prison, for I should have been fed, at allevents: but that very day a gentleman passing, saw me watching a stall, the owner of which had just left it, as if I was going to take whateverI could grab; and so I was. And he asked me if I was hungry; and hegave me a roll from his pocket, and then he asked me where I lived, andI said `Nowhere;' and then he told me that if I would follow him hewould show me where I could get food and shelter, and, might be, clothing and instruction, and means, too, of gaining my livelihood. Though I didn't much credit him, I went; and he took me to the FieldLane Ragged School, as it is called; and there I found all he told me, and more. I soon showed them that I didn't want to eat the bread ofidleness, and they got me employment in the day, and in the evening Iused to go regularly to the school, and sleep in the Refuge, till Iearned enough, by working four days, to go to the day-school for twodays; and I soon learned to read and write; and more than that, Ned, Ilearned what made me a Christian, which I wasn't before I went there. For, I tell you, Ned, I was a heathen; I knew no more about God and hislove for man than a block of stone; and I thought that he hated poorpeople, and sent them all to hell, and that there was no use being good. I did not know that it was sin brought the misery I saw around me intothe world, and that God hates sin, but loves sinners; for if he doesn't, he'd never have sent his only Son into the world to save them. At lastI was asked what trade I would be, and I said, `A sailor;' for I hadbeen reading about the sea, and thought I should like to live on it. Sothey sent me down here, and I do like it, Ned, right well. And now I'vetold you all this, because I want to ask you if you'd like to go toField Lane. I tell you it is a blessed place; and a blessed moment itwas to me when I entered it. You'd learn to read and write, and belooked after, and learn to gain your daily bread, and be told about Godand Jesus Christ, and how to be happy; and if you don't know about them, you can't be happy, that I tell you. "

Ned had been much surprised with all he had seen on board ship, but hewas more surprised at what Bill told him, though in a different way. Hesaid, certainly that he should like to go there, but how could he? Billreplied that "where there's a will there's a way. " Many of hisshipmates had heard Ned's history, and were interested in him; and hewould speak to the first lieutenant and to some of the officers, whowere kind, Christian men, and see what could be done. 

Bill Hudson did do his best, and very effectual that was. He had actedas officer's servant, and saved up some money; and he went round theship and told Ned's story; and all who heard it subscribed--some moreand some less; and the officers, when they heard his proposal, subscribed very liberally. Ned was invited down to Bill's mess, andnever had he eaten so hearty a dinner. 

"No wonder the sailors on board here grow stout and strong, if they haveso good a dinner as this every day, " he observed. 

"It's the same every day. No banyan days with us, now, in the navy, "was the answer. 

At last Bill Hudson's plan was matured, and the power granted him forcarrying it into execution. Ned was told he must stop on board for tea. In the evening Bill came to him triumphant. 

"It's all settled, " he exclaimed. "You see, Ned, it would never do foryou to go up to big London all by yourself, and to wander about, notknowing your way; so I've got leave from the first lieutenant to go withyou. "

"You--you go up to London with me; that will be good!" exclaimed Ned, delighted. 

Ned slept on board, and, from the kind way he was treated, wished morethan ever to go to sea. He was not aware--happily for himself--that hecould have gone to sea, in the merchant service, without being able toread, and that only at that time, when it was resolved to raise thecharacter of the men in the navy, that the rule with regard to readingand writing was enforced. 

The next morning--Ned having been supplied, by the contributions of thesailors, with a suit of clothes, a pair of shoes, and a hat, and someshirts and other things in a bundle--the two lads left the ship, andtook the first train to London. Bill would have gladly gone on foot, for the sake of economising his funds, so as to leave more with his newfriend; but his leave extended only over three days, and he had manythings to do. 

The boys arrived in due time at London, and Bill employed as much timeas he could in showing Ned about town. As evening drew on they repairedto Field Lane, and knocked for admission at the Refuge. 

"What? William Hudson come back! What has happened to you, lad?"exclaimed the porter. 

"Yes; it's myself, sure enough. I've come back to ask for a night'slodging, if there's room, and to bring this boy, who wants one badly. Can I see the superintendent?"

"Yes, sure. You know the way, Bill; go on, " said the porter, in a kindtone. 

The superintendent was very much pleased to see Bill Hudson, and more soto hear the story with which he introduced Ned Burton. He promised, gladly, to look after Ned, and, if he behaved well, to obtain regularemployment for him in the neighbourhood. 

Bill found, on calculating the amount of his funds, that he might leavesome with the superintendent for Ned's use. 

"I don't distrust you, Ned; but London is an awful wicked place; and ifyou kept the money, it might be stolen, and you almost murdered for thesake of it, " he observed. 

The next day the lads went out together, that Bill might introduce Nedto some of the people who used to employ him. Some had forgotten him;some had gone away; but a few remembered him kindly, and promised tohelp Ned. 

Ned could not help shedding tears when Bill wrung his hand, as he wasabout to start back for Portsmouth. Then, if it had not been for theRefuge, and the superintendent, and the good missionary, and the porter, he would indeed have felt very miserable and forlorn, in the big city;but Field Lane was now to him his home, indeed--his refuge fromadversity. 

He remembered, however, that he had to work; so he set about findingemployment in good earnest. His decent dress and manner were in hisfavour; and he gained a few pence, though, being a stranger, not so muchas he might have gained had he known the ways of London. At night hewent back to the Refuge with a thankful heart, and commenced hisschooling. He gave his mind to his task, though he found it very hardwork, at first, even learning the letters. The next night it waseasier, and he was soon able, when waiting for a job, to employ himselfby spelling out the names over the shop doors and the words on theadvertising papers. Sometimes he could get nothing to do, especially invery bad weather; and then he went to the industrial school at theRefuge, if it was open, or to the day-school; and here he began tounderstand the great truths about religion, of which he had before beenentirely ignorant. To one of the missionaries, who was especially kindto him, he took a great fancy; and to this good man he used to go, whenever he had an opportunity, and ask him questions, and to listen tohis addresses. He first here heard the glorious tidings that "God islove;" and as he saw that beautiful principle carried out in everydepartment of the undertaking, he could not help saying, "Ay, truly, this is God's work. "

In little more than a year he had learned, by diligent attention, notonly to read well, but to write a fair hand, while he had added greatlyto his religious and secular knowledge; and, above all, he had become anew creature in Christ Jesus. 

One day he received a letter at the Refuge from Bill Hudson. Bill wrotethat he had just arrived at Portsmouth in the frigate to which he nowbelonged, and that if Ned would come down at once, he would see him onboard the old ---, where he was sure that he would be received. Bill, moreover, enclosed a sovereign to pay for his journey. 

Ned was sorry to leave the Refuge, and yet he rejoiced at the thought ofbeing now able, as he had so long wished, to go to sea. His partingfrom his friends and journey to Portsmouth need not be described. Billwas at the station to meet him, and at once went with him on board theold ---. 

He was, without difficulty, accepted. Bill had advised him to show hisfather's certificates. The first lieutenant spoke to him very kindly, when he saw them, and told him that he had known his father, who was avery good man, and he hoped that Ned would follow his example. 

Ned Burton was no longer only a good-natured, well-meaning lad; he hadnow right principles to help him behave well; nor has he in any waydisappointed the hopes of those who have taken an interest in hiswelfare. 

CHAPTER EIGHT. 

THE GOOD CAPTAIN

THE MUTINY AT SPITHEAD--AN EXCEPTION--VALUE OF A CHRISTIAN CAPTAIN--THEMUTINY BREAKS OUT AT SHEERNESS--ANOTHER LOYAL SHIP--THE MUTINY QUELLED. 

In the year 1797 an event occurred connected with the navy of England, which cannot even now be thought of without sorrow and shame. The crewsof most of the ships of the Channel fleet then anchored at Spitheaddeposed their officers, and refused to proceed to sea, unless certaingrievances of which they complained were redressed. 

It must be remembered, however, that the seamen of those days were veryuneducated--too often utterly ignorant of religious truth, and thuseasily imposed upon by designing men. Their pay was scanty, theprovisions served out to them often bad, and deficient in quantity, while no care was taken of their moral or spiritual welfare. Still noexcuse can be offered for mutiny however much we may pity those who areinduced to commit the crime in the hopes of obtaining redress forwrongs. The Christian must ever look to his Lord and Master, and beguided by His conduct under wrong and oppression. However, all theships' companies did not mutiny, and among those which remained faithfulto their duty was the crew of the _Saint Fiorenzo_ frigate, Captain SirHarry Burrard Neale. How came this about? Was discipline less stricton board the _Saint Fiorenzo_? Were her crew allowed greater licencethan those of other ships? Certainly not. But on board her the law ofkindness, of mercy, and justice prevailed; on board many others it wastoo often neglected. However, an account of the behaviour of her crewon that trying occasion shall be given in the words of one who was thena midshipman on board her:--

"Our captain was one of the most upright and humane men in the service--a perfect officer and a perfect gentleman;" and a true, humbleChristian, from whose mouth an oath never proceeded, whose lips neveruttered a falsehood, might have been added. "He was a great favouritewith George the Third, and the _Saint Fiorenzo_ had consequently beenappointed to attend on His Majesty during his summer sojourn atWeymouth. The King won the affection of both officers and men by hisurbane and kind manners whenever he came on board. He used to call usup, and talk to us, lieutenants, midshipmen, and seamen alike, in themost familiar manner, taking an interest in our private histories, andall we had to say for ourselves. No wonder, then, that officers and menwere loyal to the back-bone. Our captain, too, from the day hecommissioned the ship, had, by his justice and kindness, done still moreto make the officers and men love him. Few fathers would have been morethoughtful of the interests of their children than he was of the welfareof the men under his charge. On the 14th of April, 1797, the _SaintFiorenzo_ lay at Spithead, forming one of a large fleet under LordBridport. It was known that certain complaints had been sent up to theAdmiralty by the ships' companies, but little was thought of the matterby the officers, when some of the petty officers of the _Saint Fiorenzo_informed Sir Harry that the men of most of the ships had resolved tomutiny, if the complaints were not forthwith attended to. It wassupposed that the documents received at the Admiralty were forgeries, orsent up by a few disaffected men. Sir Harry, however, oncross-questioning our people, was convinced that the petitions reallydid express the opinions of the seamen of the navy, and promising thathe would make the true state of the case known, that very evening sentup an officer with despatches to London. The next day the mutiny brokeout, and each ship's company was directed to send representatives, called delegates, on board the _Queen Charlotte_. Sir Harry directedour ship's company to select two of the most sensible and trustworthy ofour men, Aynsley and Stanley, as their delegates, and they regularlyinformed him of all that was taking place. His representations hadgreat weight at head-quarters; the more reasonable demands of themutineers were granted, and the seamen returned to their duty. 

"In the meantime we received orders to fit out at Sheerness, to carryover the Princess Royal to Cuxhaven, after her marriage with the Duke ofWurtemburg. That no time might be lost, the guns on both sides, fromthe cabin door to the break of the poop, were sent down into the hold, that the carpenters might begin fitting up the cabins, thus cripplingour powers as a fighting ship. 

"On our arrival at Sheerness, great was our astonishment at finding thered flag--the signal of mutiny--flying on board the _Sandwich_. Itbeing supposed that her crew had not been informed of what had takenplace at Spithead, our delegates were sent to explain matters. Ongetting on board they were disgusted to find that fresh demands had beenmade on the Government by the crews of the North Sea fleet, of a natureso frivolous that they were not at all likely to be granted. Our men, it appeared, expressed their views in a very unguarded way, and in nocourteous language. This enraged Parker--the unhappy man who hadassumed the command of the fleet--and the other ringleaders, and ourship's company became marked as disaffected to the common cause. Fromthe information our delegates gave on their return, it was suspectedthat the mutineers intended removing our officers. In consequence, SirHarry resolved immediately to quit the fleet and to run into the harbourof Sheerness. 

"Near us lay the _Clyde_, an old fellow-cruiser, commanded by CaptainCunningham, who had, also, by kindness and justice, won the confidenceand affection of his crew. An arrangement was accordingly made betweenthe two captains and the ship's companies, that they would make theattempt together, and share each other's fortune. 

"Neither of our pilots, however, through fear or treachery, would takecharge of the ships. At this juncture Captain Cunningham went on boardthe _Chatham_ yacht, which lay near, for Mr William Bardo, one of hermates with whose fitness for the task he was acquainted. Mr Bardoundertook the task of piloting the _Clyde_, and as she was the inshoreship, she was to move first. We watched her with intense anxiety. Shecast the right way, and before one of the ships in the power of themutineers could make sail after her, she was safe from pursuit. Nothaving a pilot we could trust, and the tide now being unfavourable, SirHarry decided to wait till the suspicions of the mutineers might belulled. Our anxiety was relieved when, soon after dusk, Mr Bardo, sentby Captain Cunningham, came off to us in a small boat to pilot us in. Just, however, as we were preparing to move the next morning, a body ofthe delegates came on board, and, abusing our men for allowing the_Clyde_ to escape without firing into her, ordered them to bring the_Saint Fiorenzo_ in and place her between the _Inflexible_ and_Director_, to unbend our sails, and to send our gunpowder on board the_Sandwich_, the flag-ship of the so-called Admiral Parker. So enragedwere our people with these orders, that one of the quarter-masters, JohnAynsley, came aft, and in the name of the ship's company, begged thatthey might heave the delegates overboard. 

"Sir Harry, however, to whom all matters were referred, while he satquietly in his cabin out of sight, ordered our delegates to expresstheir readiness to comply with Admiral Parker's orders; and at lengththe mutineers, satisfied that we were about to do as directed, left theship. 

"As soon as they were gone, we got springs on our cable, so as to castinwards, and all was made ready to run, as was at first intended, intoSheerness. In heaving, however, the spring broke, and we cast outward. The effect of this was to carry us right among the mutinous fleet. 

"At this critical juncture, Sir Harry, whose presence of mind neverforsook him, directed one of the quartermasters to appear on deck as ifin command, while he and all the officers concealed themselves indifferent parts of the ship--he posting himself so that he could, unseen, issue his orders. In a moment every sail was sheeted home, andwe stood in between the two line-of-battle ships, which, as thedelegates had told us, had all their guns double shotted, while theircrews stood ready, lanyards in hand, to sink us with their broadsides. 

"On we stood, the ship gathering good way, when, as we got in among themutinous fleet, Sir Harry gave the order to let fly all the sheets. This so completely took the mutineers by surprise that they, believingthe ship was coming about, did not fire a shot at us. Sir Harry thenordered the helm to be put `hard a port, ' which caused the ship to shootahead of the _Inflexible_ and clear of her. He immediately sprang ondeck, crying out, `Well done, my lads!' A loud murmur of applause washeard fore and aft along the deck, but we had no time for cheering. `Now clear away the bulk-heads, and mount the guns, ' he added. Scarcelywere the words out of his mouth, than the whole fleet of thirty-two sailopened their fire. The shot fell thick as hail around us on every side. The men stood at their stations without flinching. Of course it wouldhave been worse than useless to have returned their fire. 

"On we stood. Never ship passed through such a fire so slightlyscathed. Not that we escaped altogether; now a shot struck us, nowanother. The _Director_ alone might have sunk us; but, as far as wecould judge, not a shot came from her. Some believed that her crew, struck with admiration at the heroism displayed by our people, firedwide, or did not put shot into their guns. Though we were repeatedlyhulled, not a rope was shot away, nor was any one hurt on board. God inhis mercy, working as he thinks fit to work through human agency, protected us. Everybody was labouring with a will, and in two hours wehad our decks clear, our guns mounted, and were in a perfect state ofpreparation to meet a foe. 

"No sooner was this done than the men came aft in a body, and begged SirHarry that should any of the mutinous fleet come up with us, they mightbe allowed to go down at their guns rather than return to the Nore. Thecaptain promised them that they should have their wish: at which theyseemed as contented as if some great favour had been done them. 

"As yet, however, there were no signs of our being pursued: thoughshortly the determination of our men was to be put to the test. 

"Sir Harry had resolved to return to Portsmouth, and when just off themouth of the Thames a fleet of men-of-war hove in sight. Theyapproached with the red flag at their mast-heads. This was the NorthSea fleet, with the admiral and all the officers under arrest. 

"No sooner were we seen than a frigate bore down on us. That we couldescape her was doubtful; and though we could have beaten her off had wefired, we should have brought the rest of the fleet down on us. SirHarry, therefore, gave the speaking-trumpet to Stanley, and directed himto answer the questions of the mutineers. His replies seemedsatisfactory, for the frigate, hauling her wind, rejoined the fleet. Scarcely had we lost sight of the North Sea fleet, than we spoke a brig, which gave us the astounding information that the mutiny had againbroken out at Spithead. We therefore, just as it was growing dark, anchored under Dungeness, with springs on our cables, prepared for anattack. 

"Towards the end of the middle watch, a large ship, as she appeared, wasseen bearing down towards us. The crew, believing her to be a foe, again came aft, and repeated their request to be allowed to sink, ratherthan surrender to the mutineers. The private signals were made: theywere answered; but that was no security, as the mutineers would ofcourse have possessed themselves of them. The drum beat to quarters. It was a time of awful suspense. The wind was very light. The strangerclosed slowly. Many asserted that she was a line-of-battle ship. Asthe light from our fighting-lanterns beamed forth from every port, itwas easily seen what we were. Our springs were hove on, to keep ourbroadside to bear. Our captain hailed; breathless, we waited for areply. The answer was, `H. M. S. _Huzzar_, Captain Lord Garlais, from theWest Indies. ' Coming from a long voyage, she was high out of the water, which made her appear, in the gloom, like a line-of-battle ship. Whenhis people, who had heard nothing of the mutiny, were acquainted withwhat had occurred, they were so much struck with the bravery anddetermination of our ship's company, that they promised to stick by us, and share our fate if attacked by the mutineers. Not many days afterthis, Parker and his associates were allowed by the seamen they hadmisled to be carried on shore by a file of soldiers, without opposition, and the mutiny was brought to an end. "

The last years of that good captain, who had been the friend andcompanion of princes--who had so often in battle met the enemies of hiscountry, were spent in visiting the cottages of the poor surrounding hishouse, telling them of the Saviour's love, carrying them food andclothing, and other comforts, and never failing to speak kind words ofcomfort and advice. 

But we must not pause here. Some important lessons are to be learntfrom this narrative. See how the law of love and kindness, combinedwith justice, prevails, where harshness and severity fail. The crews ofthe _Saint Fiorenzo_ and _Clyde_ were composed of the same class of menas those of the ships which mutinied; yet the latter basely struck theircolours, and the former were ready to die for their officers. 

Let us ask ourselves, how do we rule in our families--over those placedunder us? By the rule of our merciful Saviour, or by the rule of theworld, of our own tempers--that is, the flesh--or of the devil?

See, again, by the way the crew of the _Huzzar_ behaved, what a goodexample can effect. If we adhere to the Captain of our Salvation--firmly and boldly confess him--we may be assured that we not only shallgain the respect of our associates, but, which is of far moreconsequence, that we shall bring over others to love and confess himalso. 

Then, again, can we, after reading this account, think without sorrowand confusion of the way we have behaved to our heavenly King andCaptain? We are told that because the king spoke to the officers andcrew of the _Saint Fiorenzo_ in a kind manner, taking an interest intheir private histories, they were loyal to the backbone. Does not ourheavenly King and Father speak to us daily, through the Holy Scriptures, words full of kindness, love, and mercy? Surely he does, if we will butdiligently read that Book of books. He allows us, too, as no earthlyking can do, to go to him daily--every hour--every moment of our lives. His ear is ever open to our prayers--he who keeps Israel neitherslumbers nor sleeps--to tell him our private histories--our wants, ourwishes, our hopes; to confess to him all we have done amiss--all oursins. And, moreover, he promises us that if we repent of them, andtrust to the cleansing blood of Jesus, he will forgive them freely andfully, and give us what no earthly monarch can give, eternal life, andraise us to dwell with him in happiness unspeakable, for ever and ever. 

CHAPTER NINE. 

THE SMUGGLER'S FATE

THE SMUGGLER'S WIFE--HANSON STARTS ON HIS TRIP--HIS WIFE'S ANXIETY--THEREVENUE OFFICERS APPROACH--THE SMUGGLERS TAKE TO THE WATER--THE FIGHT--AFEARFUL END. 

"Good-bye, Susan--good-bye, my wife. I'll bring thee over a silk gown, and such Brussels lace as you've never yet set eyes on. It will make alady of you; and you're not far off being one now, to my mind, so don'tfret--don't fret, Susan, dear. "

These words were uttered by Robert Hanson, a fine sailor-like-lookingman. And a bold seaman he was, indeed; but was also unhappily known tobe one of the most daring smugglers on the coast. Having kissed hiswife affectionately, and knelt down by the side of the cradle in whichtheir infant slept, to bestow another kiss on its smiling lips, hehurried from the cottage. 

Susan looked after him sorrowfully. She had entreated him, over andover again--not as earnestly as she might, perhaps--to give up hisdangerous and lawless occupation, and with a laugh he had told her thateach trip should be his last. Did it never occur to him how his promisemight be fulfilled? It did to Susan; and often and often she hadtrembled at the thought. She had been brought up by praying parents, and had been taught from her childhood to pray, but she could not praynow--she dared not--she felt it would be a mockery. She was wrong, though. She could not pray that God would protect her husband in hislawless occupation, but she might have prayed that her merciful Fatherin heaven would change his heart--would lead him from the paths of sin, and put a right spirit within him, even although he might be brought topoverty, and she might no longer enjoy the luxuries which he allowedher. She was sure, however, that he could make, by a lawful calling, enough for all their wants; whereas a large portion of what he nowgained was spent in feasting and treating with open hand his smugglingcompanions; so at the end of the year, except for the dresses and otherarticles which were utterly useless to Susan, they were very little thebetter for all his toil and the many fearful risks he had run. Shestood watching him with tearful eyes and a foreboding heart, as hedescended the cliff on which their cottage stood. 

Bob, as Hanson was called by his companions, looked in at three or fourof the huts which formed the fishing village at the foot of the cliff, and gave sundry directions to their inmates. The answer he receivedfrom all of them was much the same: "Never fear, captain, we'll beready. "

"You understand, Dore, " he said, stopping at one of the huts for somelittle time, "you'll be on the look-out for us on Tuesday night atDurlstone Point. Now mind you also tell Green, the landlord of the`Jolly Tar, ' to have the two covered carts there, with his fastesthorses and trusty men to drive--Bill Snow and Tom Thatcher--they aretrue men; but not that fellow Dennis--he'll bring the Coast Guard downon us one of these days, you'll see, if we trust him--and take care thatwe've no lack of hands to run the cargo up the cliff. "

Such were some of the directions Hanson gave to his confederates. Hethen, with active steps, proceeded to a small harbour at a littledistance along the shore, where a fast-looking cutter of about fortytons lay at anchor. He hailed her. A preventive man (as the revenueofficers are called), with his spyglass under his arm, passed him. 

"What, Bob, off again?" he said, in a careless tone; "we'll be on thelook-out for you, if you'll tell us when you are coming back. "

"May be next week, or the week after, or a month from this; but thankyou all the same, " answered Bob, laughing, as he stepped into the puntwhich came for him. As soon as he was on board, the _Saucy Sue_ madesail for the French shore, and, under a crowd of canvas, was soon out ofsight. 

It was soon known at each preventive station along the coast that BobHanson was away in the _Saucy Sue_, and might ere long be expected backwith a cargo of contraband. A sharp look-out was accordingly kept forhim. Often and often before this, however, he had been expected, butthe goods had been run, notwithstanding, and the _Saucy Sue_ havingappeared in the offing, had come into the harbour without an article ofcontraband on board, Bob and his crew looking innocent as lambs. 

Tuesday came. Susan knew that on that night the attempt to run thecargo was to be made. There was no moon. The sun set red and loweringover Durlstone Point, and dark clouds were seen chasing each otherrapidly across the sky, rising from a dark bank which rested on thewestern horizon, while white-crested seas began to rise up out of thesombre green ocean, every instant increasing in number. The windwhistled mournfully among the bushes and the few stunted trees, withtops bending inland, which fringed the cliffs, and the murmur of thewaves on the beach below changed ere long into a ceaseless roar. 

Susan sat in her cottage, watching the last rays of the setting sun asher foot rocked her baby's cradle. She knew well the path to DurlstonePoint along the cliffs. No longer able to restrain her anxiety (whymore excited than usual on that evening, she could not have told), sheleft her child in charge of her young sister, who had come in to seeher, and hurried out. The clouds came up thicker and thicker from thesouth-west, and the darkness rapidly increased. She had good reason todread falling over the cliff. Several times she contemplated turningback; but the thought of her husband's danger urged her on. "If I couldfind the spotsman, Ned Dore, I would beseech him to warn the cutteroff, " she said to herself; "it can never be done on a night like this. "She went on till she came to a dip, or gulley, when a break in the cliffoccurred. A steep path led down the centre to the beach. She heard thesound of wheels, with the stamp of horses' feet, as if the animals hadstarted forward impatiently and been checked, and there was also themurmur of several voices. Suddenly a light flashed close to her. 

"Oh, Ned Dore, is that you?" she exclaimed. "Don't let them landto-night; there'll be harm come of it. "

"No fear, Mrs Hanson, " said Dore, recognising her voice. "All'sright--the cutter has made her signal, and I have answered it. Couldn'thave a better time. The revenue men are all on the wrong scent, andwe'll have every cask a dozen miles from this before they are back. Just you go home, good woman, and your husband will be there beforelong. "

Susan, however, had no intention of leaving the spot. Again sheentreated Dore, almost with tears, to warn off the cutter, alleging thatthere was already too much surf on the beach to allow the boats to landwith safety. Dore almost angrily again refused, declaring that thecutter had already begun to unload, and that the boats would soon be in. Seeing that her entreaties were useless, she sat herself down on a rockjutting out of the cliff, and tried to peer into the darkness. Shewaited for some time, when footsteps were heard, and one of the menposted to watch, came running in with the information that a party ofthe revenue were approaching. Dore, coming up to her, pulled her byforce below the rock on which she had been sitting. The other menconcealed themselves under the bushes--among other rocks and in holes inthe cliff--the lights were extinguished, and the carts were heard movingrapidly away. Not a word was spoken--the men held in their breath asthe revenue officers approached. Poor Susan almost fainted with dread--not for herself, but for her husband. Where was he all the time? Sheknew too well the smugglers' mode of proceeding not to have good causefor fear. 

"It was off here, sir, I saw the light flash, " Susan heard one of themen say. "There is a road a little further up, and the cart wheels weheard must have passed along it. "

"It is a likely spot, and must be watched. "

Susan recognised the voice of the last speaker as that of Mr Belland, the new lieutenant of the Coast Guard, reputed to be an active officer. 

"Do you, Simpson and Jones, station yourselves on the top of the cliff, and fire your pistols if you see anything suspicious, " he said. "Waitan hour, and then move back to your beats--there will be sea enough onby that time to save us further trouble. "

"Ay, ay, sir, " was the brief answer. 

The two preventive men took up their stations, one of them directlyabove where Susan was crouching down, and the lieutenant and his partymoved on. 

While these events were taking place on shore, the _Saucy Sue_ hadapproached the coast. Her usual signal was made and answered in asatisfactory manner, and preparations for landing the cargo wereforthwith commenced. There were among it silks and other valuablearticles, carefully packed in water-tight casks. The rest consisted ofspirits in casks, two of which a man could carry on his shoulders. Thecasks were now secured together by ropes in separate parcels, eighteenor two dozen in each, and lowered overboard. The cutter's two boatsthen took them in tow, and approached the beach. As they drew near, asmall light, shown for an instant, warned them that the preventive menwere on the alert. A weight sufficient to moor each parcel was on thisdropped overboard, and the boats hung on to them. 

"We must try the old dodge, " said Hanson, after waiting for some time. "I'll take three parcels--Tom and Bill, you take the rest; we've nevermissed that way. "

Saying this, he threw off his outer clothing, the two men he spoke todid the same, and all three slipping overboard, took hold of thetow-lines attached to the casks. The boats returned to the cutter, andwere hoisted on board; after which, letting draw her fore-sheet, shestood out at sea. Hanson and his daring companions, buoyed up with afew corks under their arms, and knives in their hands to cut the casksfrom the moorings, remained with their heads just above the water, watching for the signal to tow them in. There they remained, theireager eyes turned towards the cliff--the dark sky above them, thefoaming waters around. Every instant their position became moreperilous; for as the tide rose, the ledge of rocks to the westward nolonger afforded them the protection it had done at first, and the seascame rolling in, and the surf broke more and more heavily every instant. 

Could they pray for help? No. They knew well that they were engaged inunlawful work--that they were breaking the laws of their country--refusing to render to Caesar the things that were Caesar's. Such wasthe picture the poor wife beheld in her mind's eye, as she gazed downinto the dark waters, where she well knew that her husband then was. 

Slowly the anxious hour passed away. The preventive men, however, stillseemed suspicious that all was not right, and lingered at their posts. They at last hailed each other, and held a conversation in a low tone. They were close to where two of the men lay hid. Susan, in addition toher other cause of alarm, dreaded that an act of violence would becommitted, if they did not move off. The preventive men would firetheir pistols, certainly; but there still might be time for the tubs tobe landed, and the smugglers to make their escape, before the rest ofthe Coast Guard could reach the spot. Her alarm increased when shefound that Dore had crept away. 

What she dreaded happened. The two preventive men came down into thehollow, as if about to descend to the beach. Suddenly they were setupon by a dozen men. One fired his pistol, the other was knocked downbefore he could draw a weapon from his belt. The first foughtdesperately, but a blow from a hanger brought him to the ground, wherehe lay mortally wounded. The arms of the other were pinioned, his mouthgagged, and the smugglers rushed down to the beach. 

The signal was now made to Hanson and his companions. The smugglerswaited to allow time for them to come in, every instant dreading thereturn of the Coast Guard. At length a cry was heard, "Help, help!"Several of the most daring rushed into the water. First one of Hanson'scompanions was dragged on shore, almost exhausted. The tubs were drawnin, and rapidly carried up the cliff. The second man was next found;but he had abandoned his tubs, and was more dead than alive. But wherewas Hanson himself?

Susan had found her way down to the beach. No one noticed her. 

"I'm afraid the captain is gone. It was his plan, but a desperatelydangerous one, " she heard one of the men say. She stood speechless withterror. 

Just then a light flashed from the cliff above. 

"Each man for himself, " was the cry, as the smugglers made their escapeup the only path open to them. 

She stood alone on the sand, with the seas roaring up to her feet. Sheheard footsteps approaching. "Oh! where--where is my husband?" shecried out. 

"I don't know, missus; but murder has been committed, and some one hasdone it. " It was one of the preventive men spoke. 

Daylight at length broke. A tangled mass of tubs and rope, and a humanform attached to them, was seen surging up and down in the foamingbreakers. It was dragged on shore, and the poor young widow sanksenseless on her husband's body. 

CHAPTER TEN. 

THE INDIAN MOTHER, A TALE OF THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS

THE HALF-BREED TRAPPER LA TOUCHE--HIS WIFE KAMELA--THEIR CHILDREN--THEYARE SENT ON AN EXPEDITION--THE ENCAMPMENT--ATTACKED BY BLACKFEET, ANDTHE MEN SLAIN--THE YOUNG WIDOW FLIES--ALMOST CAPTURED--BACK TO THEFORT--THE REFUGE DESTROYED!--WOLVES--FURTHER FLIGHT--REFUGE AT LAST. 

Great Britain possesses the sovereignty over a rich extent of country, extending from the Atlantic on the east to the Pacific on the west. Beyond the further shore of Lake Superior is found a region of lakes andrapid rivers, rocks, hills, and dense wood, extending for about 400miles, nearly up to the Red River or Selkirk settlement. To the west ofthis, a rich prairie stretches far away up to the foot of the RockyMountains, from which the Saskatchewan descends, and, soon becoming abroad river, flows rapidly on to Lake Winnepeg. Other streamsdescending, find their way into the Polar Sea, or Hudson's Bay. On thewest, the Columbia, the Fraser, and others flow, with very eccentriccourses, into the Pacific. Besides this, there are numerous lakesdivided from each other, in many instances, by lofty mountains and thickforests. 

Over the whole of this extensive region the Hudson's Bay Company held, for many years, undivided sway, and kept in its employment large numbersof men--voyageurs, or canoe-men, and hunters--both whites of Europeandescent (chiefly French Canadians), and also half-breeds and RedIndians. The country was inhabited by several nations of Indians, someknown as Wood Indians, others as Prairie Indians and these again weredivided into tribes or clans, frequently at war with each other; andthese wars were cruel in the extreme, often exterminatory, neither agenor sex being spared. Their dress was skins, embroidered with beads, feathers, and porcupine quills. They painted their faces and ornamentedtheir hair in a fantastic manner. Their weapons were the bow and arrow, spears, and hatchets. Their canoes were of birch-bark; theirhabitations, huts, or wigwams, either of a conical shape, or like abasin reversed, and formed of buffalo-skins and birch-bark. The Indiansof the prairie possessed horses, and hunted the buffalo. Those of thewoods, having few horses, lived chiefly on deer and smaller game, andcultivated potatoes and Indian corn. They believed in one Great andGood Spirit, and in the existence of numerous evil spirits, whom theyfeared and endeavoured to propitiate. Missionaries, however, went amongthem, and many have been brought out of darkness to a knowledge of thetruth. 

Among the most interesting of the tribes in British North America andthe west of the Rocky Mountains are the Cootonais. They are handsome, above the middle size, and, compared with other tribes, remarkably fair;in conversation candid, in trade honest, brave in battle, and devotedlyattached to each other and to their country. Polygamy is unknown amongthem. The greatest neatness and cleanliness are observable about theirpersons and lodges. 

It was among this tribe that Pierre La Touche, a brave young half-breedtrapper, sought for a wife. He had not long to wait before he found amaiden whose charms captivated his heart; besides which, she was anaccomplished manufacturer of mocassins, snow-shoes, and garments ofevery description; she could also ride a horse and paddle or steer acanoe; she was fearless in danger, and she had, indeed, been greatlytried; once especially, when a party of Blackfeet, the hereditaryenemies of her tribe, had made their way over the mountains to recoversome horses which her people had captured. The Cootonais claimed theright of hunting the buffalo to the east of the Rocky Mountains, on theprairies which the Blackfeet considered belonged exclusively tothemselves. This was naturally a fertile source of dispute. 

Kamela, or the "Young Fawn, " the name given to the damsel selected by LaTouche, had been well trained to endure all the hardships and privationsto which a hunter's wife is invariably exposed. 

The usual ceremonies having been gone through, the young Kamela went toLa Touche's tent, and became his most loving and devoted wife. Hetreated her, not as the Indians would--as a slave, but as an equal and afriend, except in the presence of her countrymen, when he assumed thestern, indifferent manner with which they treat their wives. La Touchedid not long remain idle; but away over the mountains, and down streamsand rapids, across lakes, and through dense forests, he had to travel tojoin a band of the fur-trading company to which he belonged. Here fouror five years of his life were spent; and the once-graceful Kamela hadbecome a mother, with two fine children--Moolak, a boy, and a littleKamela. 

One day, towards the end of the year, La Touche received orders to joinMr McDonald, a factor, with several other men, to assist inestablishing a fort on one of the streams which run into the FraserRiver. The spot selected was on a high bluff, with the river flowing atits base. The fort was of a simple construction. It was surrounded bya palisade of stout timbers, fixed deeply in the ground, and united bycross-bars, further strengthened by buttresses, and loop-holed formusketry, with a few light guns to sweep the fort should the enemy breakin. The interior consisted of log-huts and storehouses. Such is thestyle of most of the fur-trading forts. To these forts the Indianhunters bring their furs at periodical seasons, and receive fire-armsand ammunition, tobacco, blankets, hatchets, knives, and other articlesin return; and too often, also, the deadly "fire-water. "

The fort being finished, the hunters were sent off in parties indifferent directions to search for game--either for food, or for thefurs of the animals. Mr McDonald, sending for La Touche, told him thathe must proceed to a spot at the distance of about five days' journey, with provisions for six weeks, accompanied by two other men. "We willtake care of your wife and children till you return, " he added. 

"No, thank you, sir; I prefer having my wife's society. We have gonethrough many hardships and dangers together; and she will be happierwith me, and safer than in the fort, " answered the hunter. 

"How so, La Touche?" asked the factor. 

"Why, sir, I mean that we have enemies--that it is possible the fort maybe attacked; and that, if you are not very vigilant, it may be capturedby treachery, if not by force, " answered La Touche. 

"You are plain spoken; but you need not be alarmed about our safety. Ihave not lived among these Red Skins for eight years or more, withoutknowing their habits and tricks, " answered Mr McDonald. "However, byall means, take your wife and children with you: you can have horses toconvey them. "

La Touche, thanking the good-natured factor, set off with his companionsand wife and children. His wife, from habit, marked well the way theytook; indeed, from constantly accompanying her husband, she knew thecountry as well as he did. They met on their way natives of two orthree of the neighbouring tribes; but, as they were well mounted andarmed, no one molested them. They had rivers to ford, and hills toclimb, and there were woods through which, occasionally, to save a longround, they had to hew their way. 

At length the party reached the hunting-ground to which the factor haddirected them. Wigwams were erected--conical shaped, and covered withbirch-bark--in a nook of the dense grove of cedars, where they would besheltered from the icy winds of the north; one for La Touche and hisfamily, the other for their companions. While the men went out hunting, Kamela remained at home to cook their provisions, and to look after herchildren; she also set cunningly-devised traps in the neighbourhood ofthe wigwams, over which she could watch. She never failed to have agood supper prepared for the hunters on their return home in theevening. She was one evening employed as usual, now lulling her littlegirl to sleep as the infant lay in its hammock in the wigwam, nowattending to the simmering caldron, her quick ear ever on the watch forthe footstep of her husband. Suddenly she started. "That is notPierre's footstep, " she muttered; "it is that of a stranger--no; it isMichel's. Alas! he is wounded. "

Her fears were not unfounded. In another minute, Michel, one of thehunters, staggered into her hut, fearfully wounded. No sooner had heentered, than he sank on the ground gasping for breath. 

"Fly!" he said; "they are both dead--your husband and Thomas. TheBlackfleet have done it. Take the horses--ride direct to McDonald'sfort--tell him--Oh! this pain! water, good Kamela!"

Before, however, the water reached his lips, the faithful hunter, whohad thus exerted his last remaining strength to save, if possible, thelife of his friend's wife and children, fell back, and died. 

Kamela lost not a moment in giving way to unavailing grief. Michel'scondition too fearfully corroborated his account to allow her to doubtit. Hurrying out, she caught with much difficulty two of the horses;putting a pack on one and a saddle on the other, she loaded the firstwith her blankets and two buffalo-robes, with some dried salmon andbeaver-flesh and flour, and on the other she mounted with her boy beforeher and little Kamela at her back, and set off at a rapid rate in thedirection of McDonald's fort. 

She rode as she had never before ridden, scarcely daring to look behindlest she should see some of her dreaded enemies in pursuit. Not forherself did she fear--he that had bound her to earth was gone--but shefeared for her beloved little ones, who might fall into the hands of herremorseless foes. Night was rapidly drawing on. The ground was coveredwith snow. It was bitterly cold; but she was afraid to light a fire, lest it might betray her to those who she was persuaded would be on thesearch for her. With her axe she quickly cut some boughs and strippedoff sufficient bark to form a shelter, and wrapping herself and herchildren in the blankets she had brought, and tethering the horses closeto her, she lay down to wait till morning light should enable her topursue her journey. Sleep did not visit her eyelids, but anxiously shelistened the livelong night for any sounds which might indicate theapproach of foes. A wandering pack of wolves might have discovered her;and as she had only a long knife, which she had brought away to defendherself, her prospect of escape was small indeed. 

Daylight came at last, and at the first grey streak of light in theeastern sky she was again mounted as before, and on her way towards thefort. She did not draw rein except when necessary to stop and feed thehorses. If enemies were following her, she began to hope that she haddistanced them. Choosing for her camp at night a sheltered spot in adeep hollow, she ventured to light a small fire, at which she could warmher own and her little one's benumbed limbs and dress some food. Sheslept, too; but still so heavy was her heart, that she would havewelcomed death but for the little ones at her side. 

Kamela, too, had a hope beyond the grave. Confused as her notionsprobably were, she had learned from her husband that the Great Spirit, who made the world, is a God of love, and holiness and purity; that itis not His will that any should perish; that it was man's disobediencebrought sin, and suffering, and death into the world, and that God's OwnSon came into the world that He might triumph over both. Kamela could, therefore, pray intelligently to that Great Spirit through His Son, whodied for the sins of the whole world, for protection and support. Notoften has a person been placed in greater peril than was that youngIndian woman. 

On the evening of the third day, just as she had reached the brow of ahill, she saw galloping towards her a band of warriors. She knew at aglance that they were foes. She trusted that she had not been seen. Rapidly turning her horses round, she galloped down the hill into thethickest part of the wood. Again she watched. The Indians, instead ofascending the hill, as she feared they might do, kept along the valley, and thus did not discover her trail. She emerged from her concealment, and, as long as light lasted, pushed on towards the fort. Once there, she trusted that food and shelter would be found for her little ones. More than once little Moolak asked for his father. Only then did tearsstart to her eyes. She replied, "He has gone to be with the GreatSpirit. We shall go to him some day. "

The neighbourhood of the fort was reached; her loved ones would be insafety. She drew in her rein. Anxiously she looked towards the bluffon which the fort had been built. "Surely, it rose above yonder clumpof bushes, " she said to herself. 

She approached cautiously. With a sinking heart she gazed at the spotwhere the fort had stood. It was there no longer, and, in its place, heaps of charred timber and ashes, the smoke from which still ascendedto the sky. There could be no doubt that the fort had been destroyed;perhaps even the enemy were yet in the neighbourhood. Still, some ofher friends might have escaped. She turned silently away, resolving tovisit the spot as soon as the shades of night should veil her approach. At some little distance was a thick cluster of trees. Retreating to it, she carefully concealed the children and the horses. Then, lying downwith her little ones, she waited, with her ear close to the ground, forthe return of night. 

The hours passed slowly. Not a sound broke the stillness of theevening, save that made by the horses as they stirred up the snow to getat the fresh grass and hay and leaves beneath. She fed her children--they were too well trained to cry out--and, kissing them, and offeringup a silent prayer that they may be protected, she set out on herperilous expedition. Her only weapon, besides her axe, was a longknife. Gathering her garments tightly round, as she neared the spotwhere the fort had stood, she crept silently up. The palisades and loghuts were still smouldering, but no human voice could she hear. Cautiously at first, and then louder and louder, she called out thenames of Mr McDonald and those she had left with him in the fort. Breathlessly she listened--no one answered to the summons. Again andagain she called. A strange cry reached her ears: she knew it well. Asudden breeze at that moment fanned up the embers, and by the brightflames which burst forth she beheld, in the farther-off corner of thefort, a band of prairie wolves wrangling and fighting over a banquet, the nature of which she guessed too well. To that part it was evidenther friends had retired, with their faces to the foe, and fought tillbrought down by overwhelming numbers. At that sad moment a new fearseized her--the cry of the prairie wolf reached her from another point:it came from the wood where she had left her children. She panted withagitation, with dread. Maternal love gave wings to her feet: she flewrather than ran back. She sprang over the fallen logs: she dashed asidethe boughs in her way, regardless of the wounds they inflicted. Shecaught sight of two large wolves stealing towards her children. Werethey the first, or had others got there before them? She shrieked out--she shouted--she dashed forward with her weapon to meet the savagebrutes. In another moment they would have reached her sleeping infants;but, not waiting her approach, they fled, howling, to join the rest ofthe pack at the fort. Her children were safe: she clasped them to herbosom. They were all, now, that remained to her on earth. For theirsake she resolved to struggle on. But she had a fearful prospect beforeher. Hundreds of miles from any civilised beings, or from any tribe ofnatives on whose friendship she could rely; without means of procuringfood, starvation stared her in the face. Yet she did not despair. Shehad the two horses: they must die. She might, perhaps, trap someanimals; she must also build a habitation to shelter herself and herlittle ones. There was work enough before her. 

She revolved these matters in her mind during the night. By early dawnshe mounted her horse, and, leading the other, rode away from the fatalspot. For two days she travelled on, till she reached a range of hills, among which she believed that she should be safe from discovery. Sheknew too well that, should she encounter any of her husband's foes, neither her sad history nor her sex could save her from the most crueltreatment--scarcely, indeed, from death. At last she reached thelocality she sought, and fixed her abode in a deep hollow in the side ofthe hill facing the sunny south. She had brought with her somebuffalo-robes and deer-skins: with these and a few cedar-branches, andsome pine and other bark, she constructed a wigwam by the side of asparkling stream which burst forth from the mountain-side. 

No game was to be found, and she was compelled to kill the horses, andsmoke-dry their flesh. Their skins added somewhat to the comfort of herhut. For three weary months the poor widow, with her orphans, draggedon a sad existence. She saw her stock of food decreasing, and she mighthave to travel far on foot before she could reach a place where morecould be obtained. May had arrived, and there was no time to be lost;so, packing the remainder of her horse-flesh, with as many of herblankets, and buffalo-robes, and other articles as she could carry, withher youngest child on her back, while she led the other, she commencedher weary march across that wild region of mountains, forests, andstreams now known as British Columbia. To no human being had she spokensince her husband's dying comrade warned her to fly. 

For days she toiled on over the rough ground, often having to carry thelittle Moolak, in addition to his sister. She had barely foodsufficient for another day, when several grey wreaths of smoke ascendingfrom a valley told her that a band of friends or foes were encampedbelow. She hesitated to approach them. "They may be foes; and if theyare, will they spare me, wretched though I am?" she said to herself. She looked at her children. "I have no more food for them; I mustventure on. "

Emerging from a thick wood, she saw close before her a large encampment. She staggered forward, and stood trembling amid the camp. A chiefstepped forward from his wigwam and listened to her tale, which was soontold. 

"You shall be a sister to us, " he answered. "Your people are ourfriends, and, still more, are your husband's people. I will be as afather to your children. Fear not, sister. Here you shall find rest, and shelter, and food. "

The chief kept to his word, and the poor widow was treated with thegreatest kindness by him and his people. The summer came, and a brigadeof the company's trading canoes passed down the river. The peoplelanded, and spoke to her. She was known to several of them, and theyinvited her to accompany them. The Indians entreated her to remain withthem. She thanked them and said, "No, I will go with my husband'speople. When I wedded him I became one of them. I wish, also, that hischildren should become like them, and be brought up in the faith towhich he held. "

Wishing, therefore, the kind Indians farewell, she accompanied thevoyageurs; and in the far-off settlement to the east, where sheultimately took up her abode under a Christian missionary, she herselflearned more clearly to comprehend the truths of the Gospel whosegracious offers she had embraced, while by all around she was respectedand beloved. 

CHAPTER ELEVEN. 

THE TRAWLERS, A TALE OF THE NORTH SEA

THE NORTH SEA FLEET--SUNDAY AT THE FISHING GROUND--THE MISSIONARYSERVICE--THE GALE--A MISHAP TO THE SEA-GULL AND HER CAPTAIN--A CRASH--THE CAPTAIN'S DEATH--ALL LOST BUT TWO BOYS--DOING ONE'S DUTY--MORNING--ALONE WITH A DEAD MAN--BREAKFAST--TO THE PUMPS--SAVED AT LAST. 

A fleet of a hundred vessels or more lay together, dotting the surfaceof the German Ocean, or North Sea, as it is more generally called, upwards of 300 miles from the English shore. They were mostly luggers, of from sixty to eighty tons; each with a crew of from seven to ninemen. These vessels formed a part of the North Sea fishing fleet, chiefly belonging to Great Yarmouth and the adjacent ports, engaged intrawling for turbot, soles, brill, and other flat fish, for the supplyof the London market. 

They had been out there for nearly three weeks, their wants beingsupplied, and the fish they had caught being taken away from them byseveral large cutters, which came out from Yarmouth laden with ice, inwhich the fish were packed, and thus conveyed to the Thames, or to thenearest railway terminus--thence to be transported to London, anddispersed by similar means all over the country. It was Sunday: some ofthe vessels had their sails set and their trawls down, their crews intheir dirty week-day dresses standing ready to haul them on board. Other vessels, which had drawn close together, had their sails furled, their anchors down, and their trawl-nets hung up in the rigging to dry. A flag was flying at the mainmast-head on board two of them. The devicewas a figure with wings, and an open book with golden leaves in itshand, on a blue ground, and underneath, the words "Missions to Seamen. "These two vessels were somewhat apart, and boats from the others werepulling towards them. On board one of the other vessels--the_Sea-gull_--the crew were collected on deck, in their clean clothing, maybe not so neat and new as they might have worn on shore, however. The boat was alongside; the captain came on deck. 

"Well, lads, who'll go with me to worship God with ourfellow-Christians?" he asked. 

"What's come over the old man, of late?" growled out one of theroughest-looking of the crew. "We used to do very well without all thispraying and preaching; and I don't see what good it'll do us. "

One or two laughed: but no one answered. 

"You'll go, father, " said a young lad, Robby Starling, addressinganother of the men. "You can't tell what beautiful things are said; andthen there's praying and singing; it does one's heart good to hear themsing. Come, father; come. "

"It's time to shove off, lads, " said the old captain, looking round tosee who would go. 

Robby again pleaded with his father, who at length stepped into the boatwith two other men, his son, another lad, and the captain. 

The weather was calm and fine, so that it allowed of an awning to bestretched over the deck, under which seats were arranged for theaccommodation of thirty or forty persons. The sailor missionary, whoacted as mate of the missionary fishing-vessel, after appropriateprayers had been offered up and psalms sung, urged his hearers, in aloving manner, to accept the gracious offer of salvation while there wasyet time. 

All were impressed with this address; no one more so than Rob Starling'sfather and the other men from the _Sea-gull_. Before leaving the vesselthe elder Starling went to the missionary, begged him for his prayers, told him how heartily sorry he was for all his sins, and yet that he wassure his loving Saviour would wash them all away. 

Notwithstanding the calmness of the morning, there had been indicationsall day of a change of weather; and just as the sun went down, theadmiral (for so the most experienced captain of the fleet elected tothat post is called) hoisted the signal for the vessels to return toport. As the fleet had a week or more to remain out, he had beenunwilling to make the signal, though it might have been better had hedone so earlier; but even the most experienced are at times mistaken asto the weather at sea. 

Those who had been trawling all day hauled their trawls on board; andthose which had been brought up, lifted their anchors, and all made sailtogether. 

Before midnight a fierce gale was blowing from the westward, shiftingnow from the south-west, now from the north-west, and creating a heavycross-sea. The fishing-vessels took different directions. Some stoodto the north, some towards the south, endeavouring, as best they could, to beat up against the gale; but they were quickly dispersed here andthere, so that the seamen on board the _Sea-gull_, with which we have todo, when they looked out into the gloom around, could not discover asingle sail near them. Dark seas, with white, foaming crests, rose upon every side, threatening to fall over on the deck of the littlevessel, and send her to the bottom. Now she rose to the summit of oneof them now she sunk down into the deep trough between them; tumblingand pitching as if the sport of their fury. The lightning flashedvividly; the wind howled in the rigging; the waves roared, and ever andanon struck the vessel as if about to batter in her sides, sending thespray flying over her deck, wetting the crew (who stood holding on tothe bulwarks or rigging) through and through. 

There was a loud crash, followed by a groan: the mizen yard had parted, and, falling, had struck the old master, Captain Snow, to the deck. Hismen raised him up; he could not speak. He was carried below, where hisinjuries could be looked to. 

"Robby, my son, do you and Bill Cuffe go below, and look after the oldman; this is not a night for boys like you to be on deck, " said theelder Starling, who now took the command. 

The boys gladly obeyed. Bill Cuffe proposed turning into their berthsto go to sleep; but Robby said, "No! we were told to look after thecaptain. "

The men, by a sickly light of a lantern, examined the captain's hurts, as he lay in his berth, but though they could not discover that any limbwas broken, they soon saw that he was beyond their skill. They had, too, to hurry on deck to help repair the damage to the rigging. Soonafter, Robby and Bill Cuffe heard the men on deck battening down thehatches; it was a sign that things were becoming even more serious thanat first. The bulkheads below creaked; the seas thumped and thumpedagainst the sides, and the _Sea-gull_ tumbled and pitched about in everyconceivable manner. 

"What's going to happen? ain't we all going to the bottom?" asked Bill. "What shall we do, Robby?"

"Do our duty, Bill, whatever happens, as the missionary told us thismorning; and pray to God to take care of us all aboard here, " answeredRobby. "We've now to try to help the captain; I think I hear himspeaking. "

The boys went to the captain's side. He had returned to consciousness. "What's happened, boy?" he asked: "I can't move hand or foot. " Robbytold him. "God's will be done, " he murmured. "Your father'll do hisbest--he's a good seaman. He went to service with us this morning. Iwish all had gone. "

While he was speaking, the vessel received a more furious blow; thenthere was a rushing noise of water overhead, followed by loud crashesand a few faint shrieks, and then the vessel seemed to bound upwards, and no other sound was heard but that of the seas which washed againstthe sides. The boys clung to each other in terror; something dreadfulhad happened, they had been long enough at sea to know that. Theydreaded to ask each other; yet what could those shrieks mean? Therewere no sound of footsteps on deck; the movement of the vessel wasdifferent; she no longer went ahead, but lay tossed about by the sea. 

"Boys, are you prepared to meet your God?" asked the captain, in a deeptone, making an effort to speak. "Pray with me. " The boys went to himand knelt by his side. He tried in vain to lift up his hands. Theyrepeated the solemn words he uttered. His speech grew fainter andfainter, then ceased altogether. A few faint groans followed, thenthere was an ominous silence. Robby held the lantern to the old man'sface. The eyes were open, but all expression had gone. 

"Speak, Captain Snow; speak, Mr Snow--oh! do--do!" cried the boy. "He's gone--the captain's dead, Bill, " he said, sadly, after waiting forsome time and getting no answer. "How sorry father and the rest willbe!"

The boys had not even then realised what had happened on deck. Againthe lugger was wildly tossed about. Another heavy blow was followed bya rush of water below. It seemed to come in forward. They could standthe suspense no longer, but rushing up the companion-ladder, with theirunited strength they forced back the hatch, and looked out. Better hadit been for them, poor boys, had they remained in ignorance tilldaylight of what had happened. 

The masts were gone; the boat was gone; the bulwarks were gone; and nota human being remained on deck. The sea had swept it clear, with theexception of the companion-hatch, which was low and unusually strong. To this they owed their preservation. Had it been carried away, thevessel must soon have filled; as it was, the fore-hatch had lifted, andallowed the water to pour down. Should it be carried away, the vesselwould very probably go down. Mechanically drawing over the hatch again, they returned into the cabin, and sat down, sobbing and wringing theirhands. 

"Perhaps they're gone away in the boat, " suggested Bill Cuffe. 

Hobby for an instant checked his tears, but immediately saw theimprobability of this. "Oh, no, no! They're all gone! they're allgone!" he repeated again and again. "No one but us two and the deadcaptain aboard the craft. "

"What shall we do, then?" asked Bill, after a long silence. 

Hobby looked at his companion earnestly before speaking. "Trust in God, and do our duty, " he said, at length. 

"Yes, but what is our duty, Robby?"

"I don't see that we can do much, as yet, " answered Robby, "but trust inGod, and pray to Him. Yes, I've heard say that when people die, theirfriends go and shut their eyes: the captain's are open; let's go and dothat for him. "

Together they went back to the body, and while Bill held the lantern, Robby reverently closed the eyes of the dead man. 

The _Sea-gull_ continued tumbling about as before, now tossed to the topof one curling wave, now to that of another; while every now and then afresh rush of water down the fore-hatch made the two boys dread morethan ever that she would ere long go to the bottom. They dared not goon deck to see how matters stood, because they knew that if they didthey most probably would be swept off it; so they sat down on the floorof the little cabin, and held on by the leg of the table, wishing thatdaylight would come and the storm cease. 

The night seemed a very long one; so, indeed, it was. Wearied out, theyat length both slept. How long, they could not tell, but a sudden lurchthrew them against the side of the vessel, and they awoke, but withtheir senses confused, and neither of them able to recollect clearlywhat had occurred. The light in their lantern had burnt out, and theywere in total darkness. 

Suddenly Bill exclaimed, "Oh, Robby, where's the captain?"

"Dead, " said Robby: "you haven't forgotten that, surely. "

"Dead!" exclaimed Bill. "Oh, so he is, and we two here with him alonein the cabin away out in the open sea. I can't stand it, I tell you. Where shall we go? what shall we do?"

Terror caused by thinking of the supernatural is especially infectious. Robby was but a boy. In spite of his better judgment, he allowed hisfeelings to get the better of it, and he began to tremble like hiscompanion. This was but natural. Brought up as are boys of his class, who could blame him? There were the two lads, with their dead captain, rolling about in a leaky craft during that fierce gale out in the NorthSea. They dared not go on deck; they feared to remain in the cabin:they crept over as far as they could from the side where the dead bodylay. Not till Robby again thought of praying did he regain hiscomposure. With the hatches battened down and the skylight coveredover, daylight could not penetrate in the little cabin. The boys forgotthis, and sat on, Robby at length again falling asleep, but Bill's fearskept him awake. After a time it seemed to him that the vessel did nottumble about so much; he was very hungry also, and he thought that itmust be day, and as he was afraid of moving by himself, he awoke Robby, and together they groped their way to the companion-hatch, and, unfastening it, the bright sunlight streamed full on their dazzled eyes. The sea had gone down somewhat, but still it washed over the deck, which was wet and slippery, and so they were afraid to venture on itlest they should be washed off. Hobby looked around, in the faint hopethat some one might be yet clinging to the vessel, but not one of theseven men they had left there when they went below remained. Then hescanned the horizon on every side. Foam-crested, dancing waves alonewere to be seen. Not a sail appeared. Bill now cried out for food. They could venture to leave the companion-hatch off, and by the lightwhich streamed down it they were able to hunt about for some. They soonfound some cold meat and biscuit, and fortunately also a jar of water, and, with these things, quickly appeased their hunger. They had nofear, indeed, of starving, for there were plenty of fish on board, andan ample supply of provisions of all sorts, but the cooking-place wasforward, and they could not venture along the deck to get to it. Aftertheir meal their spirits improved. Hobby remarked with confidence that, as the vessel had floated so long through the worst part of the gale, she might still weather it out altogether. They could hear, however, bythe rushing sound inside as she rolled, that there was a great deal ofwater in her. "We must try and pump it out, " said Robby. To do thatthey must wait till they could get forward, where the brake of the pumpwas kept. 

All this time the wind was falling and the sea was going down, and atlast Robby thought that by working their way along the masts they mightreach the forehatch. He led, Bill followed. The hatch was foundpartially off. Fortunately, it had not been altogether washed away, for, as it was, large quantities of water had got down and damagedeverything in the forecastle. Bill, again frightened by the damage thevessel had sustained, thought that pumping would be of no use. 

"It's our duty to pump this vessel--and do so I will, if I can, " saidRobby, firmly. 

The pump, not without difficulty, was rigged, and they set to workmanfully. It was very hard work too, but it was satisfactory to see theclear water rushing out through the scuppers, and to believe that nonewas coming in. They pumped and pumped away till they were weary, andthen went back into the cabin to lie down awhile. 

They had now got more accustomed to the sight of their dead captain, sothat even Bill did not object to passing the night in the cabin. Thenext day they again pumped away, and had entirely freed the vessel bynoon. Having nothing more to do, their thoughts turned towards thepossibility of reaching England. They anxiously scanned the horizon inthe hopes of seeing some vessel approaching them. A sail was seen atlength--they thought that she was coming towards them, but she stoodaway; then another and another came in sight; but their vessel was notperceived. Another night came on. As the sun went down, the sky againbecame very threatening. Before midnight the gale had returned. Therewas no compass below, so the boys did not know from what quarter itblew. Poor Bill began really to despair, and wanted to get into a berthand go to sleep till he was drowned. 

"No, don't do that, " said Robby. "While there's life there's hope; and, depend on't, God knows what's best for us. "

The storm raged furiously, but the little vessel, freed from water, andlight as a cask, floated like a cork driven before it. At length thegale ceased, and the sea went down, and the two boys went on deck. Thecoast was in sight--they knew it well--they were off Lowestoft. Boatscame off--the _Sea-gull_ was towed into the Yar. It became known howRobby and Bill had kept the vessel afloat by pumping her out before thesecond gale came on. A subscription was raised for Robby and hismother; and, though he is very young, he commands a vessel of his own, still firm in the belief which he endeavours to impress on others, that"God knows what is best for us. "