She walked up the companionway and stood on the deck, the first time in nearly a month.
When her eyes looked upward and saw the American flag proudly floating from the mast, she fell on her knees, and in a loud voice thanked Heaven for her deliverance.
But her strength was overtaxed, and she fell back on the deck in a fainting condition.
Tenderly Tempest carried her below and placed her on the cabin lounge.
How he wished that there had been another woman on board to attend to her wants; but wishes would not bring one, and so he had to enact the rôle of nurse.
Mr. Scarron found three guns on board the Caroline, but very little ammunition.
"Ask Captain Vernon to give you a few charges," said Tempest, "for we may have to defend ourselves before we reach port. And tell Captain Vernon that I shall not desert the Caroline while there is the least chance of saving her."
The day wore on apace, and all had good hopes that by the morrow's morn an American port would be entered.
But the sun was just setting, its golden rays were dancing on the green waters of the Atlantic, when Mr. Scarron rushed unceremoniously into the cabin where Tempest sat holding Bertha's hand in his own, and praying for her return to consciousness.