It was a long row out to the “Tasmania,” and seemed to them all even longer than it really was. They were very silent. As they neared the ship, round which several other boats were already lying, while others were, like themselves, approaching her, Prescott said—
“I think I can see Frank leaning over the bulwarks. I think it as well that he should not notice us until we are fairly on board. He will not know you through your veil, Miss Heathcote, and Captain Bradshaw and myself will keep our heads bent.”
As they neared the ladder, Alice put her hand on her uncle’s arm. “Dear uncle, you will not be hasty whatever he says to you? Remember how he has suffered, and how unjustly.”
“No, my dear; you need not be afraid; I have been too hasty already. Nothing Frank can say will be more than I know I deserve. You can trust me for once to keep my temper.”
They ascended the steps, and then Prescott pointed out to them a group standing a short distance off, looking at the land. Kate had baby in her arms, while Frank was holding Charley on his shoulder.
“Please wait here, and look over the side,” Prescott said, in accordance with their previously arranged plans; “while I find the captain.”
They did so, and Prescott speedily found the officer. In a few words Prescott explained to him that he had come off with a gentleman and lady to see Mr. Maynard.
“And a capital fellow, too,” the captain said, warmly; “one of the right sort, and no mistake, while as for his wife, she’s a trump, sir, that’s what she is; no grumbling, no discontent, takes everything as it comes, and is as cheery and as bright as if she had been accustomed to it all her life.”
“I am afraid, captain, you will not be pleased when I tell you our errand. An unfortunate mistake has led to a quarrel between him and his uncle, a very rich old gentleman, to whom he will be the sole heir. The mistake has been cleared up and explained since you left the river, and his uncle is here with me to take him home again.”
“I shall be sorry indeed to lose him, for he has been the life and soul of the passengers since we started; kept them in good spirits, got up games—just the fellow to sail with; but, if it’s for his advantage, I shall not grudge him his fortune. Is there anything I can do for you?”