Often they mistook a cloud lying low on the horizon for a line of coast.
Presently some one staring through the glass cried out:
“Land!”
“Nothing but a low cloud!” cried another man, staring through another glass.
“The Highlands!” cried the first speaker.
And in a very few minutes “The Highlands!” was the verdict of all on the outlook.
The progress of the ship was now very rapid.
She soon passed the Narrows, and stopped.
The quarantine officers came on board. No ship ever came into the harbor with crew and passengers in a healthier condition, Mr. Force’s chronic rheumatism being the only case of indisposition on board. So the Asia was allowed to go on her way, and reached her pier a little after sunset.
Mr. Force at once landed with his party, taking only such luggage as they had used during the voyage, and which could be carried in the hands of the servants.