“Husband!” murmured Mrs. Carleton, instantly recognizing him.
“Thank God,” he said, “that I see you all once more!”
“When did you come? How changed you are! I was sure I had seen your eye somewhere,” exclaimed Hatty, full of joyful excitement.
“I was proud of you, my boy,” said Captain Carleton, again embracing him. “I was proud of you and proud of your mother, who has trained you to such good manners. I pray God you may always honor her as you did to-day.”
Mrs. Carleton, having laid aside her bonnet and shawl, rose to make preparations for supper.
“Now, ma, you sit right down,” exclaimed Hatty, gently putting her back into the chair. “I can do everything. You sit and talk with pa.”
“You will find a lobster in the closet,” said the captain. “We can well afford to have a little feast, for the Adolphus, my new vessel, is completed, and will be ready for sea before I am, I fear.”
“Good news! good news! Pa is captain again.”
“Yes,” added the gentleman; “the owners have been very generous. They have allowed me a sum in advance, which, with what I have made in the last voyage, will buy a share in her. I hope for a prosperous trip.”
“You have returned safely; and I could be satisfied with that,” faltered Mrs. Carleton, her eyes full of tears, though hope prevailed in her heart.