“I am afraid that for my sake you will expose your ship to risk,” observed the latter during their conversation.
“Do not trouble yourself about that, my friend; my first-mate is an excellent seamen, and my crew obedient and trustworthy. It’s too dark to go aboard to-night; we will start to-morrow, if, as I trust, you can bear the journey after a night’s rest and some food.”
The fire was quickly lighted, and a meal prepared such as the shipwrecked party had not partaken of for many a day.
“I will join you and your people in offering thanksgiving to God for His many mercies,” said Captain Barrow. “You, I trust, acknowledge Him in all your ways?”
“I did not till lately,” was the answer. And then Captain Hauslar told him that he was indebted to young Peter for being brought to the truth.
“I should like to have that boy with me, then,” observed Captain Barrow. “One youngster like that can exert a wonderful influence for good among a crew. I frequently get rough characters, and it takes long before they can be brought into order. Every assistance is of value.”
The journey to the boat was performed the next morning, Captain Barrow assisting in carrying his brother commander. Although the wind blew heavily, the ship was reached in safety, and she was once more put on her course.