The young girl held her brother by the hand, and was preparing to go. She stopped.
Then Lady Helena, with tearful eye, but firm voice and animated features, advanced towards her husband.
"NOBLY PLANNED."
"Edward," said she, "when Captain Grant wrote that letter, and cast it into the sea, he confided it to the care of God himself, who has brought it to us. Without doubt He designed to charge us with the safety of these unfortunates."
"What do you mean, Helena?" inquired Lord Glenarvan, whilst all waited in silence.
"I mean," replied Lady Helena, "that we ought to consider ourselves happy in beginning our married life with a good action. You, my dear Edward, to please me, have planned a pleasure voyage. But what pleasure can be more genuine or more beneficent than to save these unfortunates whom hope has almost abandoned?"
"Helena!" cried Lord Glenarvan.
"Yes, you understand me, Edward. The Duncan is a good, staunch vessel. It can brave the Southern seas; it can make the tour of the world,—and it will, if necessary! Let us start, Edward,—let us go in search of Captain Grant!"
At these courageous words Lord Glenarvan had extended his arms to his wife. He smiled. He pressed her to his heart, while Mary and Robert kissed her hands.
And during this touching scene the servants of the castle, affected and enthusiastic, uttered from their hearts this cry of gratitude,—