Kitty then told her how she was situated. Mrs Newton replied that she should be very glad to receive her, and that she hoped she would assist in the work she was engaged in.
“Indeed, I would pray that I might be able to do so,” said Kitty.
Mr Falconer looked agitated—a struggle was going on in his heart.
“I have engaged to serve on board yonder ship—my duty forbids me to quit her,” he said, in a husky voice. “Yet you will be far, far better off here, and freer from danger, than on board.”
“We must not deceive you,” said Mr Newton. “Although the natives around us are Christians, there are still many savage heathens in the island, and many more in the neighbouring islands, and we are liable to be attacked by them. It is our duty to be here, but we are not altogether free from danger.”
“I should be thankful to leave Miss Kitty in a place of safety,” said Mr Falconer, “but that information alters the advice I might have given.”
“I will continue on board, and share the dangers the ship may have to go through,” exclaimed Kitty, suddenly. “I am, however, deeply grateful for the kind offer you, my friends, have made to me; and do not suppose that it is because I fear to run the risk you speak of, but,” and she looked up at Mr Falconer, “I have another reason, which I must ask you not to press me to name.”
I do not know whether the missionary and his wife suspected what that reason was, but they did not again urge Miss Kitty to stay with them.
She and I, however, spent the three days the ship remained in the harbour at the missionary’s house, and they were the happiest I could ever remember.
How rough and profane appeared my shipmates when I returned on board. Kitty, too, evidently felt the difference between the quiet abode she had left and the cabin of the Dolphin.