Enid, on whose sensitive soul the storm, the signal, the hissing rush of the boat through the waves, had cast a spell of indefinite terror, bit her lip to restrain her tears.
Brand gave a glance of amazement at the three uplifted faces. But this was no time for surprise or question.
"I am coming down," he shouted. "Providence must have sent you at this moment."
He vanished.
"What can it be?" said Constance, outwardly calm now in the assurance that her father was safe.
"Must ha' bin a accident," said Ben. "That signal means 'Bring a doctor.' An' there ain't a blessed tug in harbor, nor won't be till the tide makes."
"That will mean delay," cried Enid.
"Five or six hours at least, missy."
The main door at the head of the iron ladder clamped to the stones swung back, and Brand leaned out. He had no greeting for them, nor words of astonishment.
"When will the tug reach here, Ben?" he asked.