They both looked out to sea, and watched the boats sailing slowly in the calm water. Scores of yachts and small boats had ventured outside the Heads on this calm day.
It was Sunday, and there were many people from Sydney enjoying the cool breeze on the cliffs. Several of them looked at the gray-bearded man and his lovely daughter, and there was respect in their glances, for they knew the history of this inseparable pair.
Eva Manton had developed into a lovely girl. The promise of childhood had been fulfilled in womanhood—for woman she was, although her father always called her ‘my little girl.’
Captain Manton was ageing rapidly, but still looked to have many years of life before him. With sturdy Wal Jessop and his wife he passed life comfortably, and lived for his daughter, who amply repaid the affection he bestowed upon her.
Eva Manton had her admirers as other girls have, but she kept them at arm’s length. She meant to be her father’s companion while he lived, and thought it no sacrifice upon her part to remain with him.
Now she could understand all about that terrible wreck, and how Wal Jessop’s sturdy arms had rescued Edgar Foster and herself from the rocks below where they stood.
She often sat there looking down into the depths, and thought how Edgar Foster had at the risk of his own life saved hers. Then she would think of the peril her father had passed through, and of his wonderful rescue and discovery on the island by Wal Jessop and Edgar. She felt it was good to be alive after such trials and sufferings, and she was thankful for her existence.
‘A letter from Edgar,’ said Wal Jessop one morning as they all sat in the cottage.
This was an important event, and one always eagerly looked forward to. Edgar’s letters gave them all pleasure, they were so bright and cheery, and full of good news and good wishes.
Wal Jessop read it, and, as usual, had to repeat the operation.