His mind was evidently disordered, and it was useless to reason with him. It was a terrible moment, as his example might lead some of his comrades to commit suicide also. At all hazards he must be prevented from doing as he threatened.
"Kellet," said Mrs Barnett gently, with a half smile, "we have always been very good friends, have we not?"
"Yes, ma'am," replied Kellet calmly.
"Well, Kellet, if you like we will die together, but not to-day."
"What, ma'am?"
"No, my brave fellow, I am not ready; but to-morrow, to-morrow if you like."
The soldier looked more fixedly than ever at the courageous woman, and seemed to hesitate an instant; then he cast a glance of fierce longing at the sea, and passing his hand over his eyes, said-
"To-morrow!"
And without another word he quietly turned away and went back to his comrades.
"Poor fellow." murmured Mrs Barnett; "I have asked him to wait till to-morrow, and who can say whether we shall not all be drowned by that time!"