"No," replied Frank, "only fainted. But if the steamer doesn't come soon, she will be; and so will we too."
"Never fear, Frank, the steamer will be back for us soon. I think I can hear her paddles now," said Bert, in cheering tones; and they listened intently for a moment, but heard nothing save the soft lapping of the waves all around them. Then Frank spoke:
"Bert," he asked, "are you afraid to die?"
Bert started at the question. He had not thought of dying, and life was so precious to him.
"We're not going to die, Frank. God will take care of us," he answered, quickly.
"Yes, but if the steamer shouldn't get back to us in time, Bert," persisted Frank, who seemed to be already losing hope, "aren't you afraid to die?"
"I don't want to, but I'm not afraid to," Bert replied, after a pause; for it was not easy to talk when every exertion had to be put forth to keep above the water.
"But, Bert, I am afraid," said Frank, with a groan. "I've been so wicked."
"No, you haven't, Frank; and even if you have, God will forgive you now. Ask Him right away."
"Oh, I can't—it's too late; I cannot pray now," cried poor Frank, in a voice that sounded like a wail of despair.