Dry clothing and a little rest soon restored Mr. Sherwood and the ladies to their wonted spirits, and all of them wished to see their brave deliverer. He was sent for, and presented himself to the ladies in the drawing-room. Lawry, anxious to learn the condition of the ladies after their cold bath, and their terrible fright, had followed the carriage up to the house, and was telling the coachman the particulars of the catastrophe when he was summoned to the presence of the family.
Never was a young man more earnestly and sincerely thanked for a brave and noble deed; and Mr. Sherwood hinted that something more substantial than thanks would be bestowed upon him.
"Thank you, sir; I don't need anything more," replied Lawry, blushing. "What will be done with the steamer, now?" he asked.
"I have got enough of her," said Mr. Sherwood. "She has given me a shock I shall never forget."
"I don't think it was the fault of the boat, sir," suggested Lawry.
"I did all I could to have you keep off the rocks."
"We all thought you were crazy, you shook so in your boat."
"I was trying to warn you of your danger."
"Was that what you meant? We thought you were cheering the Woodville."
"I saw you were going on the rocks, and I shouted and made signs for you to keep off."
"You certainly did all you could for us, both before and after the accident," added Mr. Sherwood. "When did you get home, Lawry?"