initial commit of ebook 22404HEADmain

242 files changed, 14211 insertions, 0 deletions

diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6833f05
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.gitattributes
@@ -0,0 +1,3 @@
+* text=auto
+*.txt text
+*.md text
diff --git a/22404-8.txt b/22404-8.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c5eb489
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-8.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,4678 @@
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Story of the White-Rock Cove, by Anonymous
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Story of the White-Rock Cove
+
+Author: Anonymous
+
+Release Date: August 26, 2007 [EBook #22404]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe, Mary Meehan and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+(This file was made using scans of public domain works in
+the International Children's Digital Library.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                       THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE.
+
+                              With Illustrations.
+
+
+
+
+LONDON:
+T. NELSON AND SONS, PATERNOSTER ROW;
+EDINBURGH; AND NEW YORK.
+1871.
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: WILLIE AND ALECK AT THE FOOT OF THE WHITE ROCK.]
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+
+       I. LONG AGO AT BRAYCOMBE
+
+      II. ALECK'S WELCOME
+
+     III. A WHOLE HOLIDAY
+
+      IV. THE RIDE TO STAVEMOOR
+
+       V. SHIP-BUILDING
+
+      VI. THE SCHOONER-YACHT
+
+     VII. THE MISSING SHIP
+
+    VIII. ANOTHER SEARCH
+
+      IX. SORROWFUL DAYS
+
+       X. SUNDAY EVENING
+
+      XI. THE WHITE-ROCK COVE AGAIN
+
+
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+LONG AGO AT BRAYCOMBE.
+
+
+The Story of the White-Rock Cove--"_to be written down all from the very
+beginning_"--is urgently required by certain youthful petitioners, whose
+importunity is hard to resist; and the request is sealed by a rosy pair
+of lips from the little face nestling at my side, in a manner that
+admits of no denial.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"_From the beginning_;"--that very beginning carries me back to my own
+old school-room, in the dear home at Braycombe, when, as a little boy
+between nine and ten years old, I sat there doing my lessons.
+
+It was on a Thursday morning, and, consequently, I was my mother's
+pupil. For whereas my tutor, a certain Mr. Glengelly, from our nearest
+town of Elmworth, used to come over on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
+for the carrying forward of my education; my studies were, on the other
+days of the week, which I consequently liked much better, conducted
+under the gentle superintendence of my mother.
+
+On this particular morning I was working with energy at a rule-of-three
+sum, being engaged in a sort of exciting race with the clock, of which
+the result was still doubtful. When, however, the little click, which
+meant, as I well knew, five minutes to twelve, sounded, I had attained
+my quotient in plain figures; a few moments more, and the process of
+_fours into, twelves into, twenties into_, had been accomplished;
+and just as the clock struck twelve I was able to hand up my slate
+triumphantly with my task completed.
+
+"A drawn game, mamma!" I exclaimed, "between me and the clock;" and
+then with eager eyes I followed hers, as she rapidly ran over the
+figures which had cost me so much trouble, and from time to time
+relieved my mind by a quiet commentary: "Quite right so far;--No
+mistakes yet;--You have worked it out well."
+
+Frisk, the intelligent, the affectionate, the well-beloved companion of
+my sports, and the recipient of many of my confidences, woke up from his
+nap, stretched himself, came and placed his fore-paws upon my knees,
+and, looking up in my face, spoke as plainly as if endowed with the
+capacity of expressing himself in human language, to this effect:--"I'm
+very glad you have finished your lessons; and glad, too, that I was able
+to sleep on a mat in the window, where the warm sunshine has made me
+extremely comfortable. But now your lessons are done, I hope you'll lose
+no time, but come out to play at once. I'm ready when you are."
+
+And Frisk's tail wagged faster and faster when my mother's inspection of
+my sum was concluded, so that I could not help thinking he must have
+understood her when she said,--"There are no mistakes, Willie; you have
+been a good, industrious little boy this morning; you may go out to play
+with a light heart."
+
+I did not need twice telling, but very soon put away all my books and
+maps, and the slate, with its right side carefully turned down, that it
+might not get rubbed, wiped the pens, placed my copy-book in the drawer,
+and presented myself for that final kiss with which my mother was wont
+to terminate our proceedings, and which was on this occasion accompanied
+by the remonstrance that I was getting quite too big a boy for such
+nonsense.
+
+Then at a bound I disappeared through the window, which opened on the
+lawn, and let off my pent-up steam in the circumnavigation of the
+garden, with Frisk barking at my heels; clearing the geranium-bed with a
+flying leap, and taking the low wire-fence by the shrubbery twice over,
+to the humiliation of my canine companion, who had to dip under where I
+went over.
+
+The conclusion of these performances brought me once again in front of
+the school-room window, where my mother stood beckoning to me. She had
+my straw hat with its sailor's blue ribbons in one hand, and a slice of
+seed-cake in the other.
+
+"Here, Willie," she said, "put on your hat, for the sun is hot although
+there is a fresh breeze; and--but perhaps I may have been mistaken--I
+thought perhaps some people of my acquaintance were fond of seed-cake
+for luncheon."
+
+"No indeed, dear mamma," I made answer speedily, "you are not at all
+mistaken: some people--that is, Frisk and I--do like it very much; don't
+we Frisk, old fellow?"
+
+"And now," continued my mother,--who must certainly have forgotten at
+the moment her opinion expressed just five minutes before as to the
+propriety of kisses, for, smoothing back my hair, she stooped down to
+press her lips upon my forehead before putting my hat on,--"and now you
+are to take your troublesome self off for a long hour, indeed, almost an
+hour and a half: away with you to your play."
+
+"May I take my troublesome self to old George's, mamma?" I petitioned.
+
+"If you like," she answered; "only be careful in going down the
+Zig-zag; I don't want to find you a little heap of broken bones at the
+bottom of the cliff."
+
+I confess myself to being entirely incapable of conveying on paper to my
+young readers the charms, the manifold delights, of that Zig-zag walk,
+which was our shortest way down to the lodge.
+
+You started from the garden, then through the shrubbery, and from the
+shrubbery by a little wire gate you entered the natural wood which
+clothed the upper part of our hill-side. The path descended rapidly from
+this point, being very steep in parts, and emerging every here and there
+so as to command an uninterrupted view of the beautiful Braycombe Bay,
+which on this bright summer morning was all dancing and sparkling in the
+sunshine. Lower down, the wood gave place to rock and turf, until you
+reached the top of the shingle which the path skirted for a little
+distance; and, finally, crossing an undulating meadow, you gained the
+lodge, the abode of my friend old George, mentioned above.
+
+It was not its picturesque beauty alone which endeared the Zig-zag walk
+to me, although, child that I was, I feel sure the loveliness of the
+outer world had the effect, unconsciously to myself, of brightening my
+little inner world; but over and above all this must be ranked my keen
+enjoyment of a scramble, and of the sense of difficulty and danger
+attendant upon certain steep parts of the descent. It was one of my
+great amusements to be trusted occasionally to guide my parents'
+visitors down by this path, for the sake of the view, whilst their
+carriages would be sent the long way by the drive to meet them at the
+lodge. There were precipitous places, where even grave and stately
+grown-up people would give up walking and take to running; and then
+again little perilous points, where ladies especially would utter faint
+cries of fright, and would require gentle persuasion to induce them to
+step down from stone to stone; whilst I, fearless from long practice,
+would triumphantly perform the feat two or three times, to show that I
+was not in the least afraid, devising, moreover, short cuts for myself
+even steeper than those of the recognized path.
+
+I question whether the birth-day which conferred on me the privilege of
+going alone up and down the Zig-zag was the greatest boon to myself or
+to my nurse; the exertion involved in scaling the hill-side being to the
+full as wearisome to her as it was enchanting to myself. The
+emancipation, however, came early in my career, since my friend, old
+George, by my father's consent, assumed a sort of out-of-door charge of
+me at a period when most little boys are exclusively under nursery
+discipline. For my father reposed the utmost confidence in the old man's
+principles, and did not hesitate to let me be for hours under his care,
+saying, often in my hearing, that he would rather have me out on the
+water learning from him how to manage the boats, or climbing the rocks
+and exploring the caves under his safe guardianship, than learning from
+a woman only how to keep _off_ the rocks and avoid tumbling into the
+water. He was an old seaman, united by strong ties of friendship and
+gratitude to our family. In earlier years he had served on board the
+same ship in which my father had been a young midshipman; and on one
+occasion, when my father fell overboard, at a time when the vessel was
+at full speed, had thrown himself into the water, and held my father's
+head up when he was too exhausted to swim, until the boat put out for
+the rescue had time to come up and save both lives, which the delay had
+placed in great peril. When, some years later, on my grandfather's
+death, my father came to live at Braycombe, he insisted upon Groves, who
+was just about to be pensioned off through some failure in health,
+coming to settle with his wife at the lodge, promising him the charge of
+our boats, so that he might have a taste of his old occupation. His
+daughter-in-law, widow of his only son, who had been drowned, obtained
+the situation of schoolmistress, and lived near to the old couple with
+Ralph, _her_ only son, a lad some few years my senior, who was employed
+about the place under his grandfather's supervision, and helped in
+rowing when we went out upon the water.
+
+A friendship firm and tender had grown up between myself and the old
+seaman, I accepting him as a grown-up play-fellow, and revealing to him
+in detail all the many plans continually suggesting themselves to my
+fertile imagination, and finding in him an ever ready sympathy, and,
+when possible, active co-operation in my schemes.
+
+From which digression, explanatory of the relationship subsisting
+between old George--as he had taught me from infancy to call him, _Mr.
+Groves_, as he was more properly designated by the neighbourhood--and
+myself, I must return to the bright June morning upon which, after my
+usual fashion, I descended the Zig-zag, running, scrambling, sliding,
+with Frisk scampering and capering at my side, making wild snaps at
+pieces of cake which I broke off for him from time to time, and held up
+as high as I could reach, that he might have to jump for them.
+
+We were not long in gaining the lodge, which, by the carriage drive, was
+nearly three-quarters of a mile from the house. I produced a series of
+knocks upon the door, like those of a London postman, though, as old
+George was wont to remark,--
+
+"What's the use, Master Willie, of knocking like that; you never stop to
+hear me say 'Come in,' but just burst open the door and drive in like a
+gust of wind promiscuous." But, in self-defence, I must explain that my
+defective manners in this particular were entirely due to my old friend
+himself, who, from earliest infancy, had trained me in all manner of
+impertinent familiarities. It was traditional that I cried to go to him
+whilst I was still in arms; that I made attacks of an aggravated
+character upon his brass buttons before I could walk alone; and I could
+just remember experiments upon his white beard, as trying doubtless to
+him as they were interesting to myself, conducted with philosophical
+determination on my part, in order to ascertain whether it came off by
+pulling or not! In all of which proceedings my friend greatly encouraged
+me, so that the blame of my failure in the laws of etiquette lay at his
+door.
+
+Only Mrs. Groves was in the cottage when I rushed in eagerly upon the
+morning in question. She was busy in culinary mysteries, but assured me
+her master would be soon in, and, in the meantime, I was to make myself
+at home; which I did at once.
+
+"And your dear ma, how's she?" inquired the good lady presently,
+settling a cover on a saucepan in a decisive manner, and sitting down
+during a pause in her operations. "I saw her drive by yesterday; and
+Susan told me she'd been at the school. A blessed time children have of
+it these days, going to school; it's very different to what it was in my
+time."
+
+"Then you didn't go to school?" I asked, being privately of opinion that
+she was rather fortunate as a child.
+
+"Oh yes, sir, I went to school, but not like the schooling children has
+now-a-days, with a high-born lady like your ma going herself to see
+them;--our old dame, she teached us all she knew--to read, and mark, and
+learn,--"
+
+"And inwardly digest?" I suggested, as Mrs. Groves hesitated in her
+enumeration of accomplishments.
+
+But there was not time to satisfy me concerning this branch of her
+education, for old George appearing at the moment, I flew to meet him,
+and we strolled down to the water's edge together.
+
+"I've been longing to see you," I exclaimed. "It's about Aleck, my
+cousin Aleck, I wanted to tell you. He's coming, and uncle and aunt
+Gordon, on Thursday week; that's only just a fortnight, you know."
+
+Aleck was my only boy cousin, and ever since there had been a notion of
+his coming to Braycombe, I had been thinking and dreaming of him
+incessantly. My aunt Gordon had been in very delicate health, and the
+doctors ordered foreign air and constant change for the summer months,
+and a winter in some warm climate. There had been some hesitation as to
+how my cousin, their only child, should be disposed of. He was not very
+strong, and school life, it was feared, might be too great an ordeal for
+another year; so my parents had written, offering that he should spend
+that time at Braycombe, and share my tutor's instructions. The decisive
+answer from my uncle had only just arrived, and I was in a tumult of joy
+and excitement that it was in favour of my cousin's coming to stay with
+us, and that the actual day of our visitors' arrival had been fixed.
+
+George listened with every appearance of interest to my communication.
+
+"I'm glad your cousin's coming, Master Willie, as you're pleased," he
+said.
+
+"But aren't you glad, too, for your own sake?" I asked. "It will be so
+nice having him to play with us."
+
+"Oh, I'll be pleased to see him, never fear for that," responded George.
+"I knew his father when he was but a little fellow like yourself."
+
+"Mamma calls me her _big_ boy," I threw in, disapprovingly. "But what do
+you think Aleck will be like?"
+
+"Well, sir, I should expect very much such another young craft as
+yourself; or, now I come to think of it, perhaps a year older or so."
+
+"Not a year," I replied; "ten months and a half. I asked mamma his
+birth-day. Do you think he'll be as tall as me? because papa and mamma
+say I'm tall for my age."
+
+"His father stood six feet one the day he came of age. I daresay his son
+will take after him," said George.
+
+"And be as tall as that?" I inquired, feeling rather anxious, until
+reassured, at the transformation of my cousin in prospect into a young
+giant.
+
+I suppose that few children had ever seen less of other children than I
+had up to this time. There were but three gentlemen's houses in our
+neighbourhood: the Rectory, where lived the elderly clergyman and his
+wife, who had never had a family; the Elms, a country seat, where Sir
+John and Lady Cosington and two grown-up daughters resided; and
+Willowbank, another country place, occupied by a young married couple,
+with one little baby. Elmworth, our nearest town, was seven miles off;
+and this distance almost entirely precluded intercourse with any of the
+families there.
+
+In consequence of this, I had been completely without companions of my
+own age up to this time. In books I had read much of children's
+amusements with their companions; and although the perfect happiness of
+my own home left nothing really to be wished for, if ever a wish _did_
+occur to me for anything I had not, it was for a play-fellow and
+companion somewhere about my own age; and now, when this wish of mine
+was really on the eve of being realized, I was filled with vague dreams
+and anticipations of all the delight which it was to bring to me. When
+George and I had mutually agreed that my cousin Aleck--allowing for the
+difference of age--might be reasonably expected to be somewhat taller
+than myself, we sat down on the beach, and began to discuss certain
+plans of mine for giving him a suitable welcome.
+
+Dim ideas, the result of "Illustrated London News'" pictures, were
+floating in my mind--bouquets, triumphal arches, addresses, and so
+forth--even although I wound up by saying--
+
+"Of course, not like that exactly; only something--something rather
+grand."
+
+[Illustration: OLD GEORGE AND WILLIE.]
+
+Old George, however, kindly and wisely pulled my schemes down, and laid
+them affectionately in the dust:--
+
+"You see, Master Willie, anything written, even in your best hand,
+wouldn't come up to what you will say in the first five minutes by word
+of mouth; and then the school banners, though very suitable for a
+feast--and I'm sure my Susan would be right pleased to look them up for
+you--would be no ways suitable. '_A merry Christmas and happy New
+Year_,' or, '_Braycombe Schools, founded 1830_,' would look odd-like
+flying in the avenue at this time of year. And though I'd be glad to do
+anything to give you pleasure, I'd rather be opening the gate to your
+uncle and aunt and cousin, as they drive up, than firing off a gun,
+which might disturb their nerves, not to say frighten the horses."
+
+All of which was perfectly unanswerable. But as old George put on his
+spectacles in conclusion, I knew he meant to consider the subject with
+attention; and I therefore remained quietly at his side, sending flat
+stones skimming along the water, or throwing in a stick for Frisk to
+fetch out again, until, as I expected, he signified to me that he had
+thought of what would do.
+
+He said that the light arch which supported the central lamp over the
+gate might be very easily decked with evergreens for the occasion, and
+the word _welcome_, traced in flowers, put up so as to appear very
+pretty with the green background; whilst the flag-staff at the top of
+the hill, just by the shrubbery, should display all the flags that our
+establishment could boast of.
+
+Groves' scheme, though not quite so extensive as those which had floated
+through my childish imagination, was sufficiently attractive to be very
+welcome; and I eagerly insisted upon our immediately returning to the
+lodge, where George took certain measurements of the arch which
+impressed me wonderfully with a sense of his superiority, and wisdom.
+
+By which time Mrs. Groves looked out to say that her husband's dinner
+would be spoiled by waiting, or eaten by the dog, "which there was no
+driving off." And I, thus reminded of the time, settled the difficulty
+about Frisk by taking him up bodily in my arms, and, hurrying off,
+reached home only just in time to get ready for dinner before the gong
+sounded.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+ALECK'S WELCOME.
+
+
+It is almost unnecessary to remark that the fortnight preceding my
+cousin's arrival was one of the longest I had ever spent--even longer
+than those preceding birth-days or Christmas. However, the long
+looked-for Thursday came at last.
+
+I pleaded hard for a whole holiday, but my mother would not be
+persuaded; so I had to do my morning lessons as usual, and confessed,
+after they were over, that the hours had passed much faster than I at
+all expected.
+
+In consideration of the travellers having, in all probability, had but
+little time for refreshment, dinner was to be rather earlier than usual;
+and Aleck and I were to have it, for once, with the elders of the
+party. Luncheon was also early; and not having the time to go down to
+the lodge before it, I went out into the garden with my mother to help
+in gathering a nosegay for my aunt's room.
+
+How fresh and beautiful everything looked that morning, as we stood
+there amongst the flowers, my mother selecting the materials for the
+nosegay, and I holding the basket, and handing her the scissors as she
+wanted them, or executing at intervals little by-plays with Frisk. I
+remember feeling a kind of intense thrill of happiness, which to this
+day is vividly recalled by the scent of those particular roses and
+geraniums; and also a sort of dim wonder about the unhappiness which I
+had heard and read of as the fate of some--pondering in my own mind how
+it felt to be so very unhappy, and whether people couldn't help it if
+they would only go out into the fresh air and warm sunshine, and enjoy
+themselves as I did. From which speculations I was recalled by my mother
+saying,--
+
+"I think we have enough flowers, Willie; perhaps just one creeper for
+the outside of the vase. There--we shall do now."
+
+Then we went in by the school-room window, and I fetched the large vase
+from the east bed-room, and stood by my mother whilst tastefully and
+daintily she arranged the flowers as I thought none but she could
+arrange them. She had nearly completed her task when my father came into
+the school-room.
+
+"I am sending the carriage early, dear," he said to her; "for although I
+think they cannot arrive until the 4.50 train, there is just the chance
+of their catching the one before. Have you any messages for Rickson?"
+
+"None, dear," answered my mother. "But you must stay for a moment and
+look at my flowers. Are they not sweet and pretty?"
+
+"Very sweet and very pretty," replied my father. But I thought he looked
+at her more than at the flowers when he said so; and she laughed,
+although, after all, there was nothing to laugh at.
+
+"Willie and I have been gathering them," she said; "and now we are going
+to put them in Bessie's room."
+
+"I know who remembers everything that can give pleasure to others,"
+observed my father, whose hand was on my shoulder by this time. "Willie,
+I hope you will grow up like your mamma."
+
+Not quite seeing the force of this observation, I replied that, being a
+boy, I thought I had better grow up like him. And both my parents
+laughed; but my mother said she quite agreed with me, it would be far
+better.
+
+Then we carried the vase up, and placed it on the table in the window of
+the east bed-room; and my mother flitted about, putting little finishing
+touches here and there to complete the arrangements for the comfort of
+her visitors, whilst I received a commission to inspect portfolios,
+envelope-cases, and ink-bottles, and to see that all were freshly
+replenished.
+
+These matters being finally disposed of, I persuaded my mother to ascend
+to the more remote part of the house, where a room next to my own had,
+at my earnest request, been prepared for my cousin, and in the
+decoration of which I felt peculiar interest. There was a twin bedstead
+to my own, and various other pieces of furniture corresponding;
+moreover, in an impulse of generosity I had transferred certain of my
+own possessions into Aleck's apartment, with a noble determination to be
+extremely liberal.
+
+My mother noticed these at once, but I was a little disappointed that
+she did not commend my liberality.
+
+"You see, mamma," I explained, "there's my own green boat with the
+union-jack, and the bat I liked best before papa gave me my last new
+one, and the dissected map of the queens of England."
+
+"Yes, I see, Willie," replied my mother; proceeding in the meantime to
+certain readjustments urgently called for, by the critical position of
+the bat standing on the drawers against the wall, and the boat nearly
+falling from the mantelpiece.
+
+"There, my child," she said; "the bat will do better in the comer, and
+the ship upon the drawers. And now the puzzle: why, Willie, this is the
+very one of which I heard you say there were three pieces missing; and
+then Mrs. Barbauld you think childish for yourself!"
+
+My countenance fell, for I had been indulging in the cheap generosity of
+giving away second-bests, and I could see my mother did not admire such
+liberality. Indeed, after a moment's consideration, I was ashamed of it
+myself, and hastened with alacrity to hide Mrs. Barbauld, and the Queens
+of England, and one or two other trifles, in the obscurity of my own
+room; whilst my mother decided upon the best position for a couple of
+prettily-framed pictures which she had had brought up, and fastened an
+illuminated text, similar to one in my own room, opposite the bed--"_The
+things which are seen are temporal; the things which are unseen are
+eternal_"--and placed a little statuette of a guardian angel, with the
+scroll underneath, "_He shall give His angels charge over thee_," over
+the bed-head.
+
+"What a good thought, mamma," I said, when she had finished her
+arrangements; "that looks exactly like mine."
+
+"Just what I want it to look, Willie. You and Aleck are to be as like
+brothers to each other as may be. You have never had brother or sister
+of your own, Willie--not that you can remember [there _had_ been one
+infant sister, whose death, when about a month old, had been my parents'
+greatest sorrow]--but now that your cousin is likely to stay a long time
+with us, I hope that you and he will be as much as possible like
+brothers to each other."
+
+Then my mother, who was sitting at the foot of the bed, drew me towards
+her, and quietly talked to me about some of the new duties as well as
+temptations which would come with new pleasures, bidding me remember
+that I was to try never to think first of myself, but to be willing to
+consider others before myself. We had been reading the 13th of First
+Corinthians that morning together, and her observations seemed to me as
+if drawn straight from that source; indeed, before long she reminded me
+of it, bidding me remember it supplied the standard we ought to aim at,
+and telling me that strength would be always given, _if I sought it_, to
+help me to be what I wanted to be; it was only those who did not
+heartily strive who got beaten in the conflict.
+
+It is not to be supposed that this was all uttered in a set speech; I am
+giving the substance only of a few minutes' quiet talk which we had up
+there in the bed-room together that morning before luncheon, and which I
+confess to having felt at the time rather superfluous, my delight in the
+anticipation of my cousin's arrival convincing me that there would be no
+fear of my finding anything but happiness in my intercourse with him.
+
+My mother, on the contrary, as I afterwards had reason to know, was by
+no means without anxiety. She knew that hitherto I had been completely
+shielded from every possible trial. The darling of herself and my
+father, and, as the only child, a favourite amongst the attached members
+of our household, my wants had been all anticipated, and every pleasure
+suited to my age had been planned for me so ingeniously, that I had
+never had the chance of showing myself selfish or ill-tempered. She
+feared that when for the first time I found myself not _first_
+considered in all arrangements, I might fail in those particular points
+of conduct in which she was most anxious I should triumph.
+
+My mother's gentle admonitions, to which I at the time paid little heed,
+were interrupted by the luncheon gong.
+
+"When will the wonderful preparations at the gate be ready?" asked my
+father whilst we were at table.
+
+"Oh, there's nothing left to do but to fasten up the flowers. Old George
+says it won't take an hour," I replied.
+
+"Then if I come down at three o'clock the show will be ready?"
+
+"Quite ready," I said. "And mamma will come too?"
+
+"Of course mamma's coming too; unless, indeed, you mean to charge so
+high a price for the exhibition," said my father comically, "that I
+cannot afford it. But even then," he added, "mamma shall see it; I'll
+give it up for her."
+
+I was off from the luncheon-table as soon as possible, but found nurse
+lying in wait to capture me and enforce upon my mind the first duty of
+returning by four o'clock, to be dressed properly before the arrival of
+our visitors, whose impression of me, she conceived, would be most
+unfavourable were they to find me in what she was pleased to call "this
+trumpery," referring to a little sailor's suit of white and blue in
+which I was very generally attired, and which nurse chose to
+disapprove. She wound up her admonition by a sort of lament over my
+light-mindedness as to my best clothes; a spirit which, she remarked,
+was apt to cling to people to their graves--sometimes afterwards; which
+I scarcely thought possible.
+
+Frisk and I darted down the Zig-zag at our usual pace, so soon as I was
+released from nurse's kind offices, and joined old George, who was on
+the look-out for us.
+
+Very pleased we were with the result of our exertions when the really
+pretty triumphal arch was completed; the letters of the word _Welcome_
+in conspicuously gay flowers forming a pretty contrast to the leafy
+background, and eliciting what we felt to be a well-merited admiration
+from my parents and a select committee of servants, who came severally
+to inspect our handiwork in the course of the afternoon.
+
+"It's fit for Her Majesty," said my father in his playful way, "and far
+too fine for a little stranger boy! In fact, it seems scarcely proper
+that a humble individual like myself should pass under it!"
+
+"You're not a humble individual, papa!" I exclaimed vehemently.
+
+"Oh, dear! oh, dear!" sighed my father, "that it should come to such a
+pass as this; my only son tells me I am wanting in humility--not a
+humble person!"
+
+"An _individual_!" I said, feeling that made a great difference. "But
+now, papa, you're only in fun; you know I didn't mean that."
+
+"One thing I do mean very distinctly, Willie, which is, that I must not
+stay chattering here with you any longer, or my letters will never be
+ready before post-time. You may stay a little longer with George if you
+like."
+
+I stayed accordingly, determining to be home by the Zig-zag at the
+appointed hour.
+
+But my parents had scarcely had the time necessary for walking up to the
+house, when the sharp sound of horses' trot suddenly aroused my
+attention, and in another moment our carriage, with the travellers
+inside, was rounding the curve of the road, and had drawn up before the
+gate.
+
+My confusion and shyness at thus being surprised were indescribable;
+and a latent desire to take to immediate flight and get home the short
+way might probably have prevailed, had not my uncle's quick eye caught
+sight of me as I drew back under the shelter of old George.
+
+"Why, surely there must be Willie!" he exclaimed; and in another moment
+Groves had hoisted my unwilling self on to the step of the carriage, and
+was introducing me to my relations, regardless of my shy desire to stand
+upon the ground, and make geological researches with my eyes under the
+wheels.
+
+"Yes, sir, this is Master Willie; he's been uncommon taken up with the
+other young master coming, and it's his thought having a bit of
+something [To think of old George designating our beautiful arch as a
+bit of something!] put up at the gate to bid him welcome."
+
+"There's for you, Aleck," said my uncle to a fair-haired boy sitting in
+the furthest corner of the carriage opposite to my aunt, whom I just
+mustered courage to look at. "You'll have to make your best bow and a
+very grand speech, to return thanks for such an honour."
+
+"Master didn't expect you so soon, sir," proceeded George; "he thought
+you'd be coming by the next train; that's how it is that Master Willie
+was down here."
+
+"Then I think the best thing we can do with Master Willie is to carry
+him up to the house with us," said my uncle. And accordingly I was
+lifted over from my step into the midst of the party in the carriage,
+and seated down between my uncle and aunt.
+
+The coachman was compelled to rein in the horses a minute longer, whilst
+they all looked at and admired the arch, and then we bowled off rapidly
+up the avenue. I sometimes think we remember our life in pictures:
+certainly the very frontispiece of my acquaintance with my cousin Aleck
+always is, and will be, a distinct mind's eye picture of that party in
+the carriage, with myself in their midst.
+
+Uncle Gordon sitting in the right hand corner with his arm round me,
+keeping me very close to himself, so that I might not crowd my aunt, who
+was leaning back on the other side of me, as though weary with the long
+journey. Opposite my uncle my aunt's maid, with a green bonnet decorated
+with a bow of red velvet of angular construction in the centre of the
+front, to which the parting of her hair seemed to lead up like a broad
+white road; she was grasping, as though her life depended upon her
+keeping them safely, a sort of family fagot of umbrellas in one hand,
+whilst with the other she kept a leather-covered dressing-case steady on
+her lap. In the fourth corner was my cousin, in full Highland kilt, such
+as I had hitherto seen only in toy-books of the costumes of all nations
+or other pictures, and which inspired me with a wonderful amount of
+curiosity. Lastly, myself in blue and white sailor's dress, looking, no
+doubt, as if I had been captured from a man-of-war; conscious of tumbled
+hair, and doubtful hands, and retribution in store for me in the shape
+of a talking-to from nurse, who had still unlimited jurisdiction over my
+wardrobe, for having been surprised in a state she would designate as
+"not fit to be seen."
+
+Aleck and I found our eyes wandering to each other momentarily as we
+drove along. When they met, we took them off again, and pretended to
+look out at opposite sides of the carriage; but this happened so often,
+that at last we both laughed, and--the ice broke. I was quite on chatty
+terms before we reached the house.
+
+"There are papa and mamma!" I exclaimed, as we came in sight of the
+entrance. They had heard the carriage, and were at the door to welcome
+their guests.
+
+"See, I have brought you two boys instead of one," said my uncle,
+lifting me out first, and then proceeding to help out my aunt, as if she
+were a delicate piece of china, and "With care" labelled outside her.
+
+When the greetings were over, my mother declared a rest on the sofa in
+her room and a cup of tea indispensable for my aunt's refreshment. My
+uncle took my father's arm and disappeared into the study; and we two
+boys were left to take care of each other until dinner-time.
+
+I proposed going round the garden, and Frisk being of the party,
+proceeded to show off his accomplishments. This led to an animated
+description of my cousin's dog, Cæsar, and a comparison of the ways and
+habits of Cæsar the Big with those of Frisk the Little, on the strength
+of which we became very intimate.
+
+Afterwards we returned to the house, and having shown Aleck his room, I
+took him into mine, where we were found seated on the floor surrounded
+by "my things," which I had been exhibiting in detail to my cousin, when
+nurse came, a little before six o'clock, to see that we were ready for
+dinner.
+
+"Aleck, tell me one thing," I had just said to my cousin; "are they
+really your knees or leather?"
+
+Aleck stared, "Leather! why, of course not; what made you think such an
+odd question?"
+
+"I didn't think they _could_ be leather after the first minute," I
+replied, doubtfully; "but I couldn't know--"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+A WHOLE HOLIDAY.
+
+
+To what boy or girl does not the promise of a whole holiday convey a
+sort of Fortunatus' purse of anticipated enjoyment! I used to wonder--I
+remember wondering that very day after Aleck's arrival, when I had the
+most enjoyable whole holiday I ever spent--why grown-up people who
+always had them should seem so indifferent to their privileges, writing
+it down upon the secret tablets of my resolve, that when _I_ grew up
+things should be very different with me.
+
+My cousin and I sat side by side at the breakfast-table in a vehement
+impulse of boyish affection, so completely taken up with each other that
+I for one never remember noticing any one else during the progress of
+the meal, except when once I caught a wistful look from my aunt, and
+heard her saying, in a rather sorrowful low voice, to my mother,--
+
+"I am very thankful to see our boys take to each other; it is quite a
+load off my mind that Aleck should be with you instead of being left at
+school."
+
+"Won't Aleck come too?" I asked my mother, when she summoned me to our
+usual Bible-reading after breakfast.
+
+"Not whilst his own mamma is here," was the answer; and I was obliged to
+rest content. But the moment I had put away my Bible, I flew off in
+search of him, eagerly explaining that we were to do what we liked for
+the whole of the morning, and sketching out a plan for our amusement
+such as I thought would be pleasant to him:--
+
+"First, we must go over the whole house--you've only seen a little bit
+of it yet--and the kitchen-garden and the stables, and then down the
+Zig-zag to old George's, and we'll get him to go out with us in the
+boat. It's smooth enough to sail the 'Fair Alice'--that's a little yacht
+of mine that old George gave me."
+
+Aleck's face brightened. "May you go out in a boat when you like?" he
+asked, eagerly. "Oh, how _de_-light-ful!"
+
+How we careered over the house that morning, visiting every nook and
+corner of it, from the "leads" on the roof; accessible only by a ladder
+and trap-door, to the most hidden repositories in the housekeeper's
+domain! The servants good naturedly remarked I had gone crazy. Presently
+I bade Aleck shut his eyes, and submit to my guidance blindfold, whilst
+I led him to the only room he had not been in. We passed through several
+passages, and then I went forward, tapped at a door, and finding I might
+come in, fetched Aleck, still with eyes shut.
+
+"There now, you may look," I exclaimed, watching in a satisfied manner
+the astonishment with which he opened his eyes to find himself in the
+study, and his confusion on seeing my father seated at the library table
+near the window, surrounded by books and papers.
+
+"Oh, uncle," he exclaimed, "I did not know I was in your room!"
+
+"And are very much startled at finding yourself there," said my father,
+finishing his sentence for him. "What shall we do with the culprit,
+Willie? Prosecute him according to the utmost rigour of the law, and
+sentence him to a year's imprisonment at Braycombe, with hard labour,
+under Mr. Glengelly and old George!"
+
+"I think that would be a very good punishment," I answered, "only I
+should like it to be more than a year."
+
+"See what a cruel fellow your cousin is," said my father, getting up
+from his chair, and proceeding to take Aleck round the room, showing him
+various curiosities with which I was familiar; then he sat down again,
+and keeping Aleck at his side, told him that so long as he remained at
+Braycombe he was to feel as much at home, and as welcome to the study as
+I was, and that he was to try and trust him as he could his own father,
+until we all had the joy of welcoming his parents home again.
+
+"Famous chats we get here sometimes, eh, Willie?" he concluded,
+appealing to me.
+
+"_Rather!_" I answered emphatically, seating myself on the arm of his
+chair, and looking over his shoulder. "Papa, shall you have time to
+play with us this afternoon. It's a whole holiday. I want you to very
+much."
+
+"I fear not, Willie. I must be away all the morning. Peter the Great
+will be at the door to carry me off in another minute, and I must keep
+the afternoon for your uncle and aunt. To-morrow afternoon I will give
+you an hour, only I stipulate you must have mercy upon your old father,
+and not expect him to climb trees like a squirrel, or run like a hare."
+
+"You know you're not an _old_ father, papa," I said; "and, Aleck, papa
+can run quite fast--faster than anybody else I ever saw, and he climbs
+better than anybody else. He's been up the tree I showed you in the
+avenue."
+
+"Whatever papa's qualifications may be," my father observed, "the end of
+the matter just at present is, that Rickson is coming round with the
+horses, and I cannot keep his imperial majesty waiting."
+
+"What does uncle do?" inquired my cousin after we had been to the door
+and had seen my father mount and ride away on Peter the Great.
+
+"Papa! oh, he does quantities of things," I replied, somewhat vaguely.
+
+"What kind of things?"
+
+I proceeded to enumerate them promiscuously:--
+
+"Why, he's a magistrate, and tries cases at Elmworth, and sends people
+to prison; and he goes to a hospital twice every week at Elmworth, and
+he goes to see poor people--we often have some from the hospital down
+here; and he always has quantities of letters; and he reads to mamma;
+and, do you know, he once wrote a book--"
+
+I paused, not so much because I had exhausted the list of my father's
+employments, as because I had named that achievement which of all others
+filled me with the deepest awe and reverence. I could remember how, when
+I was four years old, my mother had lifted me up to see a volume on the
+counter of the great bookseller's shop at Elmworth, and had let me spell
+through the name "Grant" on the title-page. I felt as if I had risen in
+life, and looked upon books in general with a feeling of personal
+friendship, as from one behind the scenes, from that day; whilst,
+personally, I was much elated by the thought of what a very wonderful
+and extraordinary man my father was. I was rather glad when Aleck told
+me that he did not think his papa had ever written a book;--it made me
+feel a little bit superior to him.
+
+After going to the stables to see my pony, we proceeded to the Zig-zag,
+chattering fast the whole way. I was full of plans and projects, and
+anxious at once to interest my cousin in every one of them.
+
+"You see," I explained, "there are quantities of things that we haven't
+been able to do, because there's been only George and me; and he's
+always had it to say that there were only us two, and that he was old
+and I young, but he can't say that now."
+
+"He doesn't seem so very old," remarked Aleck.
+
+"I don't think he is," I answered, "but he's taught me to call him old
+George since I have been a baby; everybody else calls him Groves or Mr.
+Groves. Now there's one thing I want very much to begin, and that is
+digging a hole right through the earth to come out at the other side,
+where, you know, we should find ourselves standing on our heads! George
+has always kept putting off beginning. But haven't you heard of many
+people beginning to do something great when they were boys?"
+
+"Yes," answered Aleck, musingly; "I have a book about wonderful boys,
+and one of them cut out a lion in butter, and another drew a picture
+upon a stump of a tree; but I don't think we should be able to dig so
+very far down--we should have to stop at last."
+
+This unprejudiced opinion of my cousin's, adverse as it was to my
+favourite scheme, was rather disappointing, but we were now engaged in
+the excitement of descending the Zig-zag, so I had not leisure to think
+much about it.
+
+"Isn't it a jolly way down?" I exclaimed. "Papa says it's two hundred
+feet to that piece of rock down below."
+
+"It's not steeper than our hills at home," said Aleck; "only we have not
+the sea near us--oh, how I wish we had!"
+
+Aleck was quite as good a scrambler as I was, so we were not long in
+reaching the lodge, where old George seemed to be on the watch for us,
+and welcomed us both with his wonted heartiness.
+
+"Master told me you'd be coming down, young gentlemen, as he rode by,
+and that you were to go out as much as you liked in the boat; and so
+I've been telling my good wife she must keep the look-out for the gate.
+Ralph's coming along presently, and will be down at the Cove most as
+soon as we shall."
+
+George wanted Aleck to go into the lodge and see certain objects of
+interest, which, to use his own words, he "set _great store by_." But I
+was too eager to allow of this, and insisted upon our setting out at
+once for the Cove. "I want to show him the greatest treasure I have of
+all my treasures," I exclaimed.
+
+"Is that the 'Fair Alice' you were telling me of?" asked Aleck.
+
+"Yes; you'll see her presently," I replied; "and you won't wonder that I
+like her better than all my other things."
+
+I led the way at once by a footpath from the lodge across the sloping
+green meadow, then through a little tangled copse, and finally a short
+rocky descent to what was at Braycombe always styled _the_ Cove. Not but
+that there were many coves on our beautiful indented coast, but this one
+was the most accessible on our grounds. The boat-house and the
+bathing-box were both here; and here, too, as being within easy reach, I
+had from earliest years climbed and scrambled and explored, until every
+stone was almost as familiar as the letters of my alphabet; and I could
+tell at what state of the tide certain rocks would be uncovered, and
+knew at a glance whether it would be safe to cross from one part to
+another on stepping-stones, or whether, to reach a given spot, we must
+go round by the side of the hill. How I loved, and do love, every foot
+of the ground, every stone, every rock, every silvery ripple of that the
+most charming of all possible play-grounds!
+
+Thither, then, I led the way, Aleck following me closely, and George
+more slowly behind.
+
+"There now," I cried, drawing up breathlessly as we gained our
+destination, "see, that's my boat-house." It was an exact miniature of
+the real boat-house, and Aleck stood transfixed with admiration looking
+at it; for of all things calculated for the amusement of children,
+nothing, I think, succeeds so well as real miniatures--imitations in
+proportion--of things which belong to the grown-up world. But the true
+kernel of the nut--the jewel of the case--was the elegant little model
+yacht, which I presently drew forth from her moorings within.
+
+"Now that's the 'Fair Alice,'" I continued; "isn't she lovely?"
+
+"Awfully jolly," Aleck replied, after gazing for a moment in speechless
+admiration. "I never saw anything half so nice before! Oh, if only we
+were small enough to get into it! Just look how beautifully the deck is
+made--I can see all the little timbers; and the mast, it's nearly as
+high as I am; and those little pulleys--oh, how perfect they are!"
+
+"You must see her with all her sails set, a-scudding before the breeze,
+Master Gordon," said George, overtaking us. "I reckon there's not a
+craft of her size that would beat her for speed."
+
+"Can you do the sails?" my cousin asked me, regardless of nautical
+phraseology.
+
+"Master Willie! he knows as much as a sailor born about reefing and
+unreefing the sails," said George, answering for me.
+
+"Then please do let us sail her at once. I do long to see her on the
+water," begged Aleck.
+
+And accordingly we two sat down, overlooked by George, who, from a
+delicate desire to show off my capacity to manage the sails alone,
+abstained from offering any help; and, drawing the boat up between us on
+the beach, set the sails, and then proceeded to launch her upon the
+clear deep water of the Cove.
+
+"This way now," I said to my cousin, when we saw that the breeze was
+filling the sails, and the "Fair Alice" was making her way out towards
+the mouth of the Cove. "Come and see my harbour bar;" and springing
+quickly from rock to rock, and running where there was sand, I guided my
+cousin to the entrance of the Cove, which was very narrow in proportion
+to the width and extent of the inlet. On each side of it there was a low
+stake strongly fastened into the rock, and from stake to stake a rope
+was stretched: it was long enough to lie along the bottom of the
+ground, and so offer no impediment to the boats; but when I was sailing
+my vessel in the Cove, and the tide was in, it was always stretched more
+tightly, so as to prevent the possibility of my little ship escaping
+from me into the wide sea.
+
+"See," I said, "I have only to slip this ring over the stake, and then I
+can feel quite sure the 'Fair Alice' is safe. She can't get past my
+harbour bar."
+
+In the meantime the little yacht had kept her course nearly to the
+entrance of the Cove, but a sudden shifting of the wind landed her on
+the opposite side, and I had to make my way all round to get her off
+again. Aleck remained on his side of the Cove, and we amused ourselves
+for some time in contriving to get the little boat to sail backwards and
+forwards, tacking gradually down to the boat-house.
+
+My cousin was so absorbed in the enjoyment of sailing the "Fair Alice,"
+that he was less eager about getting into our own boat for a sail than
+at first. But by-and-by, when we were dancing over the waves outside the
+Cove, he became quite wild with delight, and enjoyed himself, I verily
+believe, as much as is possible for a free, happy, eager boy; and that
+is saying a great deal. Of course I caught the infection from him,
+finding a fresh delight in my ordinary amusements through having a
+companion to share them; and, truly, a merrier boat's crew than we made
+on that whole holiday morning could not have been found.
+
+[Illustration: SAILING THE "FAIR ALICE."]
+
+Aleck's love for the sea was an absorbing passion; and it quite amused
+me to hear all the questions he kept putting to old George--as, for
+instance, how old he was when he went to sea; how long before he went up
+the mast; how they reefed the top-sails in his vessel, and which of the
+ship's company did it in a gale; together with many other inquiries,
+showing a degree of technical knowledge that perfectly overwhelmed me,
+and which, he explained to us, was extracted from "The Cadet's Manual,"
+and a big book on "The Art of Navigation" which they had at home.
+
+I almost wished my cousin did not know quite so much; it made me feel as
+though the ten months were a longer and more important period than I had
+admitted to myself. But it was a relief, when the oars were called into
+action on our way in, to find that he could not row, whereas I had
+handled an oar almost as soon as I gave up a rattle; and, as I showed
+off my best feathering, I felt we were equal again.
+
+"How is it you can't row, sir, when you know so much about it?" asked
+Groves.
+
+"Why, there are only streams and the river at my home in Scotland,"
+explained Aleck. "We're up amongst the hills, you know. I have often
+fished, but I've scarcely ever been in a boat before, except when we've
+been travelling; and then it was going out to the steamer, and I
+mightn't do anything but sit still. It was famous, though, in the
+steamer," continued Aleck, kindling with the recollection of his
+journey. "I went down, and saw how the engine worked; and helped the man
+at the wheel; and learned about the compass--at least, I knew the points
+before, but it was different seeing how to steer by it. Only I liked the
+stoker the best. I had just gone down again with him to the engine-room,
+to see the engine stopped, and pulled off my jacket because it was so
+hot; and then the steam was let off, and made such a noise! Just when
+there was all the noise of the steam, I heard somebody shouting my name,
+and calling so loudly to me that I ran up to the deck at once. I had
+quite forgotten about not having my jacket on, and I believe my face had
+got blacked--it was, I know, when we got on shore. Everybody laughed at
+me; only mamma was poorly and frightened--she thought I had tumbled
+overboard. I suppose I oughtn't to have gone down just then, for that
+was the place where we were to go on shore," Aleck added, somewhat
+thoughtfully, remembering how very white was the face to which his own
+blackened one had been pressed.
+
+By this time we were re-entering the Cove.
+
+"You'll only be just in time for your dinner, young gentlemen," said
+George, as we drew in towards the landing-place; "I reckon it won't come
+a minute before you're ready for it."
+
+"You'll teach me to row, will you not, as soon as possible?" said my
+cousin, as we parted. "I should like to begin at once, please."
+
+"So soon as you like, sir. Master Willie, you mustn't be long in
+bringing down your cousin."
+
+Thus saying, Groves took his way to the lodge, and Aleck and I clambered
+quickly up the Zig-zag, reaching home in time to appear, with smooth
+hair, and rosy cheeks, and keen appetites, at the luncheon-table.
+
+Aleck was in wild spirits, and confided to me that he didn't think he
+had ever enjoyed himself so much before.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+THE RIDE TO STAVEMOOR.
+
+
+A month after Aleck's arrival at Braycombe, it seemed so perfectly
+natural to have him with us--he had fitted so completely into the
+position of companion, play-fellow, school-fellow, brother--that I could
+scarcely fancy how it felt before he came.
+
+My uncle and aunt had left us after a fortnight's visit, and were now on
+the Continent. The parting was hard work--harder, I fancy, to them than
+to him, for boys soon get over trouble, whereas it was plain to see in
+my aunt's wistful eyes that it was a sore trial to her to leave her
+child behind. I believe that she did not anticipate, in as sanguine a
+spirit as did her husband, the happy meeting again that was talked of
+for the spring, after a winter in Madeira.
+
+It was a subject of great thankfulness, to both my uncle and aunt, that
+Aleck and I had formed such a friendship for each other. They had
+scarcely driven from the door, and Aleck's eyes were still wet with
+tears, when he told me that he did not think he could be so happy
+anywhere away from his papa and mamma as at Braycombe, with me for his
+companion; and I answered by assuring him I should never be happy again
+if he were to go away from me.
+
+We soon settled down into our school-room occupations together. Mr.
+Glengelly, who used to come three times in the week, now came daily,
+staying for the whole morning, and leaving us always lessons to prepare
+for the next day. Aleck and I spent almost the whole of our play-time
+down at the Cove; his passionate enjoyment of everything connected with
+the sea continuing in full force, whilst two or three times every week
+we had walks, rides, or drives with one or both of my parents.
+
+Aleck could ride beautifully, having been accustomed to it at his own
+home, and I was delighted to lend him my pony from time to time--more
+ready at first, if the truth is to be told, than afterwards. He also
+learned to row, though not so quickly nor so easily as I should have
+expected; and feathering remained an impossible mystery to him, being,
+as he said, more than could be expected from his clumsy fingers.
+
+In this one point--that of being unskilful in the use of his
+hands--Aleck was below the mark; in lessons he was far my superior,
+being, as I soon found, more than his year ahead of me. But, oddly
+enough, as it seemed to me, it was always in matters requiring skilled
+fingers that he was anxious to excel. He was never tired of playing at
+sailing the "Fair Alice," but would daily, before we launched her,
+examine afresh all the different parts of the little vessel, and sigh
+over the neatness of their workmanship, and ask himself and myself
+whether it were possible he should ever be able to make a ship like it.
+Various abortive attempts were to be seen in our play-room--pieces of
+wood cut, and shaped, and thrown away in disgust; but as yet he made no
+progress towards anything like skill in carpentry. The old play-boat of
+mine which I had given, to him afforded very little pleasure: it was not
+like a real vessel. Having seen the "Fair Alice," anything that fell
+short of it gave him no satisfaction. It added greatly to the pleasure
+which I had always felt in this possession, to see how ardently my
+cousin admired it, and how much he thought of the title of _captain_,
+which, as owner, had been playfully adjudged to me.
+
+I scarcely know when it was that the feeling first began to steal over
+me that I was not always quite so glad as I had been at first that my
+cousin was living with us. It was an unworthy feeling, and I felt
+ashamed to confess it to myself; but there it was, and I discovered it
+at last.
+
+Perhaps it was because of his quickness at lessons; perhaps because,
+from time to time in his turn, enjoyments which could not be shared by
+both were permitted to him--I had only the half, where before I should
+have had the whole; perhaps it was all this together, combined with the
+secret evils I had not hitherto found out in my own heart and
+disposition; but the result was, that I had now and then such miserable
+moments of being angry, and provoked, and unhappy, not because my cousin
+had done anything unkind, but simply because he had, in some
+unintentional manner, interfered with my pleasure, that I was ready to
+wish I had never had a cousin, or that he had never come to Braycombe.
+
+It is not to be supposed that this was my settled, constant state of
+mind. Far from it. In general, we two boys were as frisky, and merry,
+and happy with each other, as boys could be; but these dark feelings
+came and went, and came and went, until I began to be less surprised at
+them than when I first found them out. For some time my mother had no
+idea of their existence. To all outward appearance we were just as we
+had been in the early days of our friendship; and if I did not so often
+enlarge upon the happiness of having Aleck to live with me, I know now
+that she only put it down to the novelty of the companionship wearing
+off. I remember quite distinctly the first time that she noticed some
+little indication of the secret mischief that was going on. It was the
+time of afternoon preparation of lessons for the following morning, and
+I was sitting with my books before me at the school-room table, writing
+a Latin exercise; or perhaps it would be more correct to say, _not_
+writing my Latin exercise, for my pen had stopped half-way to the
+ink-bottle, and my chin was resting on my left hand and my elbow on the
+table, and I was indulging uninterruptedly in my own reflections, when
+the door opened, and my mother entered the room.
+
+"Where's Aleck?" was her first inquiry, as she looked round and saw that
+I was alone.
+
+"He's been gone five minutes," I replied, without raising my eyes, and
+in a tone which I meant to convey--and, I am aware, did convey--that I
+was in no pleasant mood.
+
+"How's that?" rejoined my mother, taking no notice of my manner. "Aleck
+was told not to leave the school-room until his lessons were finished.
+He knows my rule, and is not generally disobedient. I must go and see
+about him. Where is he?"
+
+"In his room, I suppose"--still in my former sulky manner; and, without
+further words, my mother left the room, and went in search of my
+cousin. I presently heard her voice calling to him at the foot of the
+stair-case leading to our rooms, and Aleck's voice more distantly
+replying to her. As, however, he did not immediately appear, I heard
+afterwards that she had gone up-stairs, and found him pulling down his
+sleeves and shaking off pieces of wood, and generally endeavouring to
+render his appearance respectable; which was made the more difficult as,
+in the course of his operations, he had dipped his elbow in the
+glue-pot, and was considerably embarrassed by the fringe of shavings
+which he was unable to detach.
+
+"I'm coming as fast as I can, auntie," he said, pulling at the shavings,
+and giving himself a rub with a duster in hopes that would make him
+right.
+
+"But, Aleck, how is it you're not in the school-room?" said my mother.
+"I have just seen Willie there alone. You know the rule about not
+leaving until lessons are finished. I fear that you have been tempted
+away too soon by your ship-building tastes."
+
+"Did not Willie tell you I had finished my lessons?" said Aleck,
+quickly. "Oh, auntie, I would not have left before."
+
+"Really finished, Aleck? Take care to be quite honest with yourself, for
+indeed you've had but short time."
+
+"Really and truly, auntie. I tried to be very quick to-day, because I do
+so want to get on with this last ship I've begun. It seems coming more
+like than the others. See, the stern is very like a real one."
+
+My mother carefully inspected the unshapely block upon which my cousin
+was at work, gave him a word or two of advice upon the subject, and came
+down-stairs again to me; having decided in her own mind, as she
+afterwards told me, to be present the next morning when Mr. Glengelly
+came, and notice whether Aleck's work had been thoroughly prepared.
+
+"How soon shall you have finished, my child?" she said, laying her hand
+softly on my shoulder, and bending down to inspect my writing. "Let me
+see what there is to be done."
+
+"This exercise, and the verb to be learned, and my sum"--very grumpily.
+
+"And how much have you done already?"
+
+"Part of the exercise--not quite half; and I'm doing the verb now; and
+the sum is finished, all but the proving."
+
+My lip was quivering as I completed the list of what I had achieved, and
+I was as nearly bursting into tears as possible.
+
+My mother's loving, pleasant way staved off the sulky fit, however.
+
+"These lessons begun, and not one of them finished off!" she exclaimed.
+"Let us see how long they will take you. First the exercise, we will
+allow a quarter of an hour for that; five minutes will prove your sum;
+and the verb, an old one you say and very nearly perfect, two minutes
+for that: less than twenty-five minutes, Willie, and you will be so
+perfectly prepared that you will be longing for ten o'clock to-morrow,
+and Mr. Glengelly to come, all the rest of the evening."
+
+I could not help laughing at the notion of my pining for Mr. Glengelly's
+arrival, and a laugh is an excellent stepping-stone out of the sulks. My
+mother put her watch on the table, and stayed in the room, helping me by
+quiet sympathizing superintendence, and I set to work with such
+earnestness that I had completed my tasks in twenty minutes, and was off
+to the play-room without a trace of my wrong temper, as eager to join my
+cousin in the carpentry as if nothing had gone wrong between us, and
+only rejoicing that my lessons were over at last, without troubling
+myself to remember that the trial of Aleck's being so much quicker than
+myself at his studies was sure to recur again and again, and that,
+unless my dislike to his superiority could be conquered and stamped out,
+I should soon find every-day trouble in my every-day work.
+
+And in truth the conquering and stamping out of such feelings as these
+is no easy task. It is unquestionably a real trial to find that work
+which takes you an hour's hard labour can be accomplished by your
+companion in not much more than half the time; that even though the
+lessons are apportioned so as to give him the heavier burden, he can
+always dispose of the heavier more readily than you can of the lighter.
+In my own case, Aleck was often very good-natured, and would linger in
+_his_ work to give me a help in _mine_; or purposely keep pace with me,
+so that we might go out to play together. But this was not always the
+way; when he was very eagerly engaged in any play-time occupation, he
+would bend all his energies to getting his tasks finished off quickly,
+and then hurry away, without appearing in the least troubled that I
+could not accompany him. Upon which occasions I thought him selfish and
+unfeeling, and was inclined not a little to regret that he had ever come
+to Braycombe.
+
+The worst of it was, that though I knew I was wrong, I could not muster
+courage to speak to either of my parents about it; no, not even in that
+moment of deepest confidence when my mother looked in to wish me
+good-night before I went to sleep, and sat, as she was wont to do, upon
+my bed talking to me about the various things which had happened during
+the day.
+
+Many a time, on such occasions, I thought of telling her my troubles,
+but was afraid lest she should think me very naughty; so I tried at last
+to persuade myself there was not much to tell after all.
+
+Half an hour spent with us in the school-room the next morning convinced
+my mother that Aleck's work had been well done. I fancy that she watched
+me a little closely for a few days, but I happened to be specially
+prosperous in my lessons, and nothing occurred to disturb my serenity,
+so that she dismissed after a time the anxiety which had begun to arise
+in her mind concerning me.
+
+As for Aleck, he had no notion of the real state of things. I am sure he
+must have thought me selfish and cross very often, but almost as often
+he would win me into good temper again; and his own temperament was
+naturally so bright and sunshiny, that trouble never seemed to remain
+long with him.
+
+It was about a fortnight later that I was sitting, after breakfast, in
+my father's study doing my arithmetic. Our school-room adjoined the
+study, and it was not an unfrequent arrangement, that whilst Aleck did
+his construing with Mr. Glengelly, I should take in my slate to my
+father's room and do my sums. I fancy he liked to have me with him; for
+whenever he was at home he would look up with quite a pleased expression
+when, after knocking at the door, I appeared with my slate and made the
+usual inquiry whether I should disturb him if I came in just then; and
+would tell me that I never disturbed him, and bid me show him my sum
+before I returned to the school-room, when he had always some pleasant
+remark to make upon it.
+
+I then was sitting on my favourite seat in the window working at
+compound division, when my mother came into the room.
+
+"I've been thinking," she said to my father, "that it's a pity both the
+boys should not go with you to Stavemoor: if you could manage without
+Rickson, or let him ride one of the carriage horses, I think you might
+trust Aleck on the gray."
+
+I listened to every word, my pencil going slowly and more slowly, whilst
+I put down three times nine, twenty-seven--two, carry seven; and was
+hopelessly wrong afterwards in consequence. This ride to Stavemoor was a
+special pleasure in prospect. Both Aleck and I had wanted to go; but the
+pony being mine, I had taken it as a matter of course that I should be
+the one chosen, and my cousin had not thought of questioning my rights.
+But now to hear my mother quietly proposing, not only that Aleck should
+go, but that he should ride the gray--it was a sore trial to my
+feelings: that gray had for months been the object of my ambition, but I
+had not been thought a good enough rider to be trusted, and now that my
+cousin should be thus promoted was hard to bear.
+
+The colour mounted to my face when I heard the proposition, and then my
+father's answer:--
+
+"I am not sure about it; and yet the boy is at home in the saddle, and
+has a firm seat. I'll speak to Rickson. Aleck's been looking pale of
+late, and I think more rides than he can get when there's only the pony
+between the two boys, would do him good."
+
+"Papa," I said, with quivering lip and reproachful voice, "you've never
+let _me_ ride the gray. It's always Aleck now--he gets everything, it
+doesn't seem to matter about me."
+
+My father gave one quick glance of surprise and consternation at my
+mother, and then turned to me:--
+
+"Willie! my own little Willie!" he said, pausing as if for an
+explanation, and putting out his hand in a manner that meant I was to
+come to his side, which I did rather slowly.
+
+"I've so often asked you to let me ride the gray, papa, and you've never
+allowed it, and now you're going to let Aleck. I don't want to go to
+Stavemoor--Aleck may have the pony; I wish I had said so at first; I
+don't want to ride the pony, and have him on the gray." And thereupon,
+almost frightened by the evident distress my sentiments had occasioned,
+I burst into a passionate fit of crying, which permitted only a few more
+broken words to the effect that I wished Aleck had never come to
+Braycombe; I hated his being there; and that my parents were very unkind
+to care for him more than they did for me.
+
+My father held me there at his side whilst I sobbed and cried as if some
+tremendous calamity had overtaken me. I knew without looking up, which I
+was ashamed to do, that his eyes were resting upon me with an expression
+of sad surprise; and the silence became perfectly unbearable. He spoke
+at last:--
+
+"My poor little Willie," he said, "what sad feelings you have allowed to
+creep into your heart! how unhappy they will make you! You have said
+very wrong words, my child, and I cannot tell you how much pain you have
+caused to me and your mamma. I hope that you will be very sorry
+by-and-by; but you know, Willie, being sorry will not undo your fault,
+nor take away the envious feelings which you have allowed to spring up
+within you; and unless such feelings as these are conquered you will be
+an unhappy little boy, and grow up to be an unhappy man. Willie," he
+added, after another pause only interrupted by my struggling sobs at
+longer intervals than at first, "you know, my child, whose strength you
+will need to help you in the battle: you are but a weak little boy, and
+cannot help yourself; you must pray for the help of God's Holy Spirit,
+or else you will never conquer these wrong feelings."
+
+I hung my head, and remained silent.
+
+"I trust Aleck knows nothing of all this," resumed my father. "We have
+promised to care for him as though he belonged to us. I will not allow
+him to feel that he is disliked by the boy who promised to love him."
+
+"No, papa," I put in, for my temper had well-nigh expended itself; "I
+do like him still--rather--only not always. I like him very much
+sometimes: I think now I'm very glad he came--only I don't like his
+having things that I mayn't have."
+
+"That, Willie," answered my father, "must be left to me to decide. I
+shall miss my little boy very much this afternoon; but I cannot allow
+you to come to Stavemoor with me to-day, after all that has passed."
+
+There was just this ray of comfort in the announcement, that at least
+Aleck would not on this particular occasion gain the object of my
+ambition.
+
+"Is Aleck to ride my pony, then?" I inquired, half ashamed of myself for
+asking.
+
+The quick, decided manner, in which my father withdrew the arm he held
+around me, and answered,--
+
+"Certainly not, unless I find Rickson thinks the gray would be unsafe,"
+made me feel more unhappy than ever; and it was with a sorrowful heart
+that I obeyed a summons to the school-room brought in at that moment by
+my cousin, and showed up my incorrect and unfinished sum to Mr.
+Glengelly.
+
+I suppose that he saw something had gone wrong with me, by my
+appearance; he was certainly more merciful than usual over my
+shortcomings in arithmetic, and the lesson-time went by so pleasantly
+that I was quite in good humour by the time it ended, and went out in
+restored spirits for the half hour's exercise which preceded our dinner,
+determining that, the first moment I could see my father, I would tell
+him I was sorry, revoke what I had said about Aleck, and ride my pony to
+Stavemoor.
+
+In furtherance of these views, I ran round by the stables, and finding
+that only Peter the Great and the gray had been ordered, told Rickson in
+confidence that I had said to my father in the morning I would rather
+not ride; but, having changed my mind since then, he was to be sure and
+be ready to send round the pony as well.
+
+Aleck, in the meantime, heard of the treat in store for him, and was
+greatly elated, chattering briskly during dinner about the expedition,
+without any idea that I was likely to be left behind.
+
+My father was not a great luncheon eater, and when very busy, would
+often only have a glass of wine and a biscuit sent into the study,
+instead of joining us at table. Finding this was to be the case on the
+present occasion, I asked leave to carry in the tray, and was permitted
+to do so after I had finished my own dinner.
+
+My father was at his writing, and looked up when he saw me, making a
+place amongst his papers at the same time for the tray.
+
+"Papa," I said, when I had put it down, "I'm sorry for what I said this
+morning. I don't mind Aleck's riding the gray; and please I should like
+to ride my own pony. I saw Rickson before dinner, and told him I had
+changed my mind, and that very likely the pony would be wanted."
+
+My father answered, in a quiet, grave voice: "You might have spared
+yourself the trouble, Willie, of speaking to Rickson, for, though I'm
+sorry to leave you behind, I cannot allow you the pleasure of the ride
+to Stavemoor this afternoon."
+
+"But, papa," I pleaded, "you always forgive me when I say I am sorry."
+
+"And I do not say now that I will not _forgive_ the wrong things you
+said this morning," he answered; "but I cannot let your conduct pass
+without punishment. You must remember, my child," he added, drawing me
+towards him, "that _forgiving_ and _not punishing_ are very different
+things. Do you remember when God forgave David his sin, yet He punished
+him by the death of his son. And it would be contrary to His commands if
+Christian parents were to allow their children's faults to be
+_unpunished_, although it is a Christian duty to exercise a _forgiving
+spirit_."
+
+The practical result of this statement was what I thought of most; it
+was clear to my mind that the ride to Stavemoor had to be given up, and
+my brow grew cloudy.
+
+"Then, papa," I said, poutingly, "I mayn't go with you this afternoon?"
+
+"Certainly not, Willie," very decidedly; "you will spend one hour, from
+the time we start, in your own room; and I trust that you will remember
+during that time--_if you are_ really sorry--that mine is not the only
+forgiveness you have to seek."
+
+"Aleck's, papa?"
+
+"No, not Aleck's; I hope he will never have an idea of all the wrong
+feelings you have entertained towards him."
+
+"You mean God's forgiveness," I said, more seriously; for that was a
+name never to be pronounced without deep reverence.
+
+"Yes, Willie; don't forget, my child, that the youngest as well as the
+oldest of us has need to seek the Fountain opened for all uncleanness.
+No repentance will wash us clean. You must ask, through the Lord Jesus,
+not only that your sins may be forgiven, but that you may also have
+strength to do better for the future. You may go now. Remember what I
+said about the hour in your own room."
+
+I departed accordingly, passing Aleck in the passage all ready and
+equipped for his ride. Brushing past him, without giving an answer to
+his inquiry whether I was going to get ready, I ran quickly up-stairs to
+my own room, shut the door, and burst into tears.
+
+By-and-by I heard the horses coming round; then I wiped my eyes, and
+kneeling upon a chair at the window, where I could not be seen, watched
+all the proceedings.
+
+Rickson, faithful to my interests, had, I perceived, brought up the pony
+ready saddled. I almost hoped that Aleck would have had it after all.
+But no; I saw him in another moment mounted upon the gray, which,
+apparently conscious of a lighter weight than usual, began shaking its
+head, and showing off its mettle. Rickson held it firmly. "So-ho!
+so-ho!" I heard him saying. "Ease her a bit, Master Gordon; ease her
+mouth; there--there--so-ho!"
+
+Aleck held the reins firmly, and his ringing voice came up cheerily
+through the air.
+
+"I'm not a bit afraid, thank you, Uncle Grant."
+
+My father in the meantime mounted Peter the Great; and before starting I
+saw the stable-boy give him a leading rein, which he put into his
+pocket, for future use I mentally decided, in case Aleck should have
+difficulty in managing the gray. But no such difficulty occurred within
+the range of my observation. When Rickson removed his hand from the
+bridle she bounded off rather friskily; but in another moment Aleck had
+reined her in, and was displaying such ready ease in the management of
+his steed, that it was clear my father's confidence in his horsemanship
+was justified.
+
+As I turned round from the window I heard my mother's soft footstep in
+the passage, and in another moment she had entered my room. She had her
+walking things on, and a little basket in her hand, well known to me as
+invariably containing jellies, puddings, or packets of tea for some of
+the many invalids to whom my mother was as an angel of mercy. She
+stopped only for two or three minutes, to tell me how thankful she was
+to know I had felt sorry for my behaviour in the morning, and how
+grieved to have to leave me at home when she would have liked me to have
+been out riding with my father, or walking with her; and then, after
+some further words of monition, she left me to my solitary hour's watch,
+and I could see her taking her way down the drive, and turning off
+through the wood, until the last flutter of her blue ribbons was lost in
+the distance. Then I bethought me of seeing how much longer I had to
+spend in my own room, and, looking at the clock-tower over the stables,
+found it was scarcely more than three o'clock. I could not feel free
+until a quarter to four, and the time began to feel very long and
+wearisome.
+
+In general, I was a boy of manifold resources, and every moment of my
+leisure time seemed too short for the many purposes to which I would
+willingly have applied it. But on this particular afternoon I seemed to
+weary of everything. Even my last new book of fairy stories failed to
+interest me. I felt as if, instead of fancying myself the hero of the
+tale, I was perpetually being compared, by my own conscience, to the
+unamiable characters--Cinderella's sisters, for instance, or the elder
+of the two princes who lived in a country long ago and nowhere in
+particular; elder brothers being in fairy tales, as all true
+connoisseurs are aware, jealous, cruel, and sure to come to a bad end;
+whilst the younger brothers are persecuted, forgiving, and finally
+triumphant, marrying disenchanted princesses, and living happy ever
+after. I threw aside my fairy book, and sought for some other means of
+amusement in a repository of odds and ends, established in a corner of
+the room by the housemaid, whose efforts to observe order in disorder
+were most praiseworthy. There I was glad to discover a piece of
+willow-bough stripped of its twigs, and in course of preparation for the
+manufacture of a bow. Immediately I set myself to adjusting a piece of
+string to it, and completing its construction. This occupation was far
+more engrossing than the reading had proved; and almost sooner than I
+had expected, the three-quarters chime of the clock proclaimed my
+liberation. I seized my garden hat, ran down-stairs, and sped out upon
+the lawn, determined to feel very merry, and to enjoy trying my
+newly-made bow as much as possible. It was annoying that Frisk had gone
+with the horses--it made me feel more lonely not to have him to play
+with; but still, my hour's imprisonment being over, I thought I could
+find plenty of amusement. So I began firing away certain home-made
+arrows, to which my mother's loving fingers had carefully fastened
+feathers; putting up a flower-pot on a stand as a mark, and trying to
+hit it. But the arrows did not go very far after all, and I leant down
+upon the bow and tightened the string, and then tightened it again,
+until there was a sudden snap, and a collapse--it had broken in two
+pieces! I threw the bow aside in disgust, and went off into the
+shrubbery, and then down the carriage drive, hoping to meet my mother;
+but she happened to be detained that afternoon at one of the cottages
+where she was visiting, and missed her usual time for returning. Feeling
+very dreary and disconsolate, I finally wandered back again into the
+house, and hung about in the different rooms in a listless, dissatisfied
+mood, until, at about half past five, I could hear the rapid tread of
+horses' feet, and in another moment my father and Aleck cantered up to
+the door. Frisk was flourishing about in his usual style, and found me
+out in a moment, jumping up upon my shoulders, and licking my hands, and
+expressing in perfectly comprehensible language his regret that I had
+not been of the party, and his pleasure in seeing me again.
+
+Aleck was in a high state of spirits, triumphant at having proved
+himself sufficient of a horseman to manage the gray, and delighted with
+all the incidents of the expedition. He did not know the reason of my
+having stayed at home; but told me how sorry he was I had not been with
+them, and tumultuously recounted the various pleasures he had enjoyed.
+
+"See, I've got lots of shells," he said, "and several beautiful
+madrepores. You must have some of them. They'd had a wedding, too, and
+we had to eat some of the bride-cake, and drink their health, and--"
+
+But Aleck's enumeration did not proceed further, for I think my father
+perceived how keenly I was feeling the contrast between his joyous
+excitement and my own very dreary heaviness of heart, and called to me
+to come to the study with him, and put away his riding whip. So I gladly
+turned away from my cousin, and followed my father to his room.
+
+To some children, the study, library, or whatever other room is
+consecrated to the use of the head of the family, is a sort of dreadful
+and solemn place, generally closed to them, but opening from time to
+time as a court of justice, to which they are brought when their
+misdemeanours have exceeded usual bounds, and are considered to require
+severer measures than are within the province of the lesser
+authorities. Very alarming, in consequence, is the summons when it
+comes.
+
+With me, however, the case was happily very different; the study was
+associated with countless hours of happy intercourse with a father whose
+very countenance was beaming with love. Times of reproof and punishment
+there had been also, but the returning happiness of forgiveness, the
+loving words of advice, the kind and constant sympathy, I never failed
+to find from him, made me look upon an invitation to his room as the
+best thing that could happen to me, whether I was happy or in trouble.
+
+"My poor little Willie," he said, sitting down almost immediately, and
+drawing me towards himself; "have you been very sorrowful?"
+
+I hid my face on his shoulder, and sobbed out that I was quite
+miserable.
+
+"Have you thought what it is that has made your day so sad, Willie?" he
+asked, kindly.
+
+"Yes, papa," I answered between my sobs; "I wasn't allowed to go to
+Stavemoor, and I was so unhappy in my own room all alone, and--and--I
+broke my bow just after I had finished making it--"
+
+"But the beginning of all this unhappiness, Willie--quite the
+beginning?"
+
+"Aleck's having the gray, papa," I said. "I think that was quite the
+beginning."
+
+"So do I think so, my child," rejoined my father; "or rather, the wrong
+feelings to which this gave rise. And now consider, Willie, how wrong
+and ungrateful you have been, to let this grow up into such a trouble.
+Just think of all to-day's mercies: your home, your loving papa and
+mamma, all the comforts that so many little boys are without; and then,
+besides all these, a pleasant excursion planned to give you special
+pleasure on your half holiday. And, in the midst of all these blessings,
+instead of being thankful and happy, you are suddenly overwhelmed, as
+though by a great misfortune; not because any of your enjoyments are to
+be diminished, but because another is to have a pleasure which you think
+greater."
+
+My father paused for a moment, and I could not help feeling that,
+according to his way of putting it, I certainly had been both naughty
+and foolish: still, it occurred to me that being happy was not in itself
+possible at all times; and that, similarly, if I were unhappy, I was
+unhappy, not by choice, but because it was not in my power to feel
+otherwise. I thought this, not indeed in words, or in any semblance of
+coherent argument, but in a sort of confused perplexity, which was only
+partly represented by my reply to my father:--
+
+"Papa, I couldn't help feeling unhappy when I heard you talking about
+Aleck's going. I couldn't make myself feel happy."
+
+"Ah, Willie, you've come to the root of the matter now," he
+answered;--"'_couldn't make myself_ feel happy!' That is just it,
+Willie; a wrong feeling of envy came into your heart--you know it was a
+wrong feeling that feeling of dislike that another should be happy, so I
+need not waste time in proving it to you; and you could not chase the
+enemy from your own heart, so, without ever remembering that there is
+One who promises to help all who cry to Him for help, and who is
+stronger than the strong man armed, you give in at once to the enemy;
+and as you couldn't help yourself, came out of the battle conquered and
+vanquished."
+
+I hung my head down, feeling I had been a coward. "I'm so sorry, papa,"
+I whispered.
+
+"I thought you would be ere long, my child," he said. "I hope you used
+the time in your room partly as I intended."
+
+I knew I hadn't, and felt still more ashamed of myself, but said
+nothing; I was never required to mention whether I had followed my
+parents' advice on such occasions, they were so fearful of making me a
+hypocrite.
+
+"Our heavenly Father will have forgiven you all your fault, if you have
+sought forgiveness through Jesus Christ; and now your earthly father is
+quite ready to forgive also, as you seem really sorry."
+
+My father gave me a kiss, and I threw my arms around his neck, and felt
+the loneliness and sadness of the day all over. My mother came in a few
+moments later, and joined us in the study, and with her loving, gentle
+words, completed my happiness in being forgiven and received back again
+into my usual position.
+
+She did not forget all that had passed, however. I found that out at our
+Bible readings; for almost the very next day she took for her subject
+with us boys, the sin of envy and its consequences, and the best means
+of conquering it. I can remember to this hour the different
+illustrations--Cain, and Saul, and the blood-thirsty Pharisees on the
+one side; and Moses, and David, and Jonathan, and Paul, on the other;
+and the verses we found out in Proverbs and in the Epistles: they
+perhaps did me some good at the time, but my heart was not really
+touched. I had not found out, in my own little personal experience, what
+my father meant by the _Fountain opened for all uncleanness_, and there
+were bitter but necessary lessons still in store for me.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+SHIP-BUILDING.
+
+
+My story would grow too long were I to tell of all the employments,
+amusements, and adventures, which made the months fly rapidly by with us
+boys that summer and autumn long ago at Braycombe.
+
+My cousin's companionship made me more than usually diligent in my
+studies, and more than usually eager in my amusements; whilst the
+watchful care of my parents seemed to screen me from many of the minor
+trials and temptations which might otherwise have rendered me less happy
+than I had been in former days.
+
+I can remember now with admiration, how carefully they measured out
+even-handed justice to my cousin and myself. They never seemed to forget
+that they had promised Aleck should be as my brother, therefore every
+arrangement took us equally into account. And although the meanness of
+envy was held by them to be not only sinful, but contemptible, they were
+quite alive to the keen sense of justice which is born with most
+children, and would never violate it by the exercise of a partiality too
+common amongst those who have the charge of the young, either with the
+object of giving me as their child some special pleasure, or Aleck as
+our visitor some special indulgence.
+
+It was not long after the Stavemoor expedition that I was allowed to try
+my horsemanship by mounting the gray. Rickson was on the alert; but had
+it not been for his interposition, my equestrian pursuits would have
+come to a very disastrous ending. I was convinced against my will of the
+wisdom of my father's decision, that I should for the present be content
+with my pony; relying, for consolation, on his promise that, before very
+long, I should learn to manage the more spirited animal. In the meantime
+I no longer felt it a trouble that my cousin's superior skill in this
+respect should be recognized.
+
+Aleck seemed to care less about the riding than I did. His passion for
+the sea--for boats, sea-weeds, stones, caves, and cliffs, everything
+directly and indirectly belonging to the sea--grew and strengthened upon
+him. His special ambition was to succeed in constructing a rival to the
+"Fair Alice;" but although honourable scars on his fingers bore witness
+to the industry with which he plied his tools, his attempts at
+ship-building had hitherto proved signal failures. I was more successful
+in my carpentry than he was, and it was quite a pleasure to me to give
+him all the help I could. Between us we at last produced something more
+resembling a ship than all former attempts, and we rushed eagerly down
+to the Cove one bright September afternoon, impatient for the launch.
+
+Aleck and I had the Cove all to ourselves: old George had not been with
+us so much as usual for weeks past; there were, indeed, few days we did
+not see him, but he did not stay with us all through our play-time; he
+would come and go, and come and go, until we boys would take to teasing
+him with questions as to what it could be that kept him so much
+occupied. I had my own private suspicions, and communicated them to
+Aleck; but old George would throw no light upon the subject.
+
+I had good reason for remembering that the 20th of September, now
+drawing near, was my parents' wedding-day, my mother's birth-day, and
+almost the greatest festival in the year to us at Braycombe. Old George,
+who lay in wait for opportunities of giving me presents, always looked
+upon this anniversary as one that would admit of no questioning, and
+more than once the offering to me--by which he meant to show his love to
+my parents--had been the result of many a long hour's secret work. The
+"Fair Alice" had been my present on the preceding year, and I had dim
+suspicions--built upon a certain hasty glance into a little room called
+the work-shop at the back of the lodge--that something else was even now
+in course of construction, which I half suspected to be a schooner-yacht
+with two masts, such as I had more than once expressed a wish to
+possess. But George was impenetrable, and kept the work-shop closely
+bolted, so I had to nurse my curiosity until the 20th. It was the day
+before this great occasion that Aleck and I ran down to launch our boat,
+as before-mentioned.
+
+Alas! we had scarcely pushed it out upon the water, when, with a roll
+and lurch, it turned over upon its side, and floated like a wreck, in a
+helpless and melancholy manner. We drew it up on shore again and set to
+work; I cheerily and hopefully, feeling perfectly aware that everything
+that was at all good in the workmanship was mine; Aleck mournfully,
+knowing that all the faults in its construction were his.
+
+"I wonder at Groves not coming," he said, presently; "I can't help
+thinking he could tell me how to make it float straight."
+
+"I'll just go and make him come," I replied; "he's been so little with
+us the last few days, I'm sure he might find time."
+
+Aleck agreed, and I set off to the lodge, leaving him to puzzle on by
+himself over the manifold difficulties of ship-building. To bring old
+George to the rescue, however, did not turn out the easy task that I had
+anticipated. He was in the work-shop, the door safely bolted, and not
+even the smallest aperture anywhere, through which I might discover the
+nature of his employment. My persuasions were all carried on at a
+disadvantage, and the conversation resolved itself into:--
+
+"Please, George, _do_ come and help us; it's very important. Aleck wants
+you particularly down at the Cove." This from my side of the door.
+
+Then from his side:--"I'm afraid, Master Willie, I can't possibly find
+the time; I'm very busy."
+
+From my side:--"But Aleck's boat won't sail, and we've tried everything
+to make it, and unless you come we can't do anything more."
+
+From his side:--"I'll come to-morrow, Master Willie, and then see if we
+don't get Master Aleck's ship to sail as merrily as the 'Fair Alice'
+herself."
+
+"Even _you_ will not be able to do so much as that," I rejoined;
+whereupon a low chuckle of merriment and satisfaction was clearly
+audible on the other side. I continued:--"It's very well to laugh, but
+if you could see Aleck's boat all lying on one side, looking not so nice
+even as the tub-boat in the 'Swiss Family Robinson,' you wouldn't think
+it so easily made all right."
+
+No answer; but click, click inside.
+
+"At least, do tell me what you're working at," I said, growing
+impatient, and battering at the door; "do tell me--there's a dear old
+George."
+
+"Work that can't be hindered by playing with two young gentlemen all the
+afternoon. There, sir, now I've told you;" and another chuckle followed,
+and click, click went on as before.
+
+I had no excuse for lingering longer. George was like a besieged
+garrison within a secure fortress; there was no chance of enticing him
+out beyond the shelter of his walls. So I could only return discomfited
+to the Cove.
+
+"There's no use trying," I said to Aleck. "All that old George will
+promise is to come out to-morrow, and make your boat sail as well as the
+'Fair Alice' herself: those are his words."
+
+"He's not very likely to be able to do that," responded Aleck, dolefully
+surveying our workmanship. "I've been trying to trim it with a stone
+stuck securely on and tarred over; but look, even that has come off
+again, and it will do nothing but turn over in that wretched way. If I
+had been trying to construct a wreck now, I'm sure I couldn't have made
+anything more like."
+
+"And that's something, after all," I said, encouragingly. "It's not
+every one that could have made a wreck."
+
+But my cousin took little comfort from the suggestion; he stood looking
+and pondering, until, at last, after some minutes' pause, he drew a long
+breath and exclaimed, as if from depths of internal conviction, "I'll
+tell you what; I must pull it all to pieces, and put it together quite
+afresh--from the beginning."
+
+"A strong-minded decision, and spoken out most heroically, Mr.
+Shipbuilder!" said a voice from behind, and we started at finding my
+father had come upon us so quietly that we had not perceived him. "You
+two boys are just like a pair of doctors consulting over a bad case;
+only you've come to what is happily rather an unusual conclusion,
+namely, that the best plan is to kill the patient!"
+
+"I think the patient's dead already," answered Aleck, tragically.
+
+"And you're only going to dissect him--is that it?" asked my father
+merrily, inspecting the boat, and listening with interest to the various
+measures which had already been tried and had failed. "Well," he added,
+"if my opinion as a consulting physician is to be taken, I should
+recommend Groves as the best surgeon; his advice to be followed in every
+particular, and all operations he may suggest to be duly performed."
+
+"We've asked him," we both exclaimed, "and he said he was too busy to
+come."
+
+"But," I added, "he promises that to-morrow he will make Aleck's boat
+sail as well as mine."
+
+"His must be uncommonly clever fingers if they are equal to that task,"
+said my father doubtingly; "but, as I said before, Surgeon Groves is the
+man for your bad case. And now I should like to know which of you means
+to stay at home to-morrow morning and learn the lessons which ought to
+be prepared this afternoon, and which will not be ready unless we are
+betaking ourselves home very soon? You, Willie?"
+
+"No, papa," I said, "nor Aleck either; we mean to have a very
+delightful, long, whole holiday, and to do no lessons at all, not the
+very smallest little bit of one." And so saying, we picked up the boat
+and various other belongings, and, one on each side of my father, took
+the way of the Zig-zag up towards home.
+
+"We haven't quite settled all we are going to do to-morrow, papa," I
+proceeded; "but if we may, we want to have the boat in the morning, and
+sail the 'Fair Alice,' and go out to some place for madrepores; and
+George is going to see about Aleck's boat too. And then, in the
+afternoon, we would play cricket with you, dear papa."
+
+"I am much obliged to you, Willie," answered my father, playfully bowing
+to me, "and feel greatly honoured at your kind arrangement for my
+amusement. Perhaps you have planned for your mamma also; is she to
+field-out when I take my innings? or possibly she will bowl!"
+
+"Auntie couldn't soon put you out if she were to bowl," said Aleck,
+laughing; "it would not do to trust Auntie with the ball."
+
+"Then, perhaps, the wicket?" suggested my father.
+
+"Now, papa, you know," I interposed, "you will be all alone with dear
+mamma in the morning--you always are--but you always do play with me in
+the afternoon; and now that Aleck is here to play also, it will be so
+jolly. Please, dear papa, do say you will."
+
+"Shall I say, like the poor people, _I'll consider of it?_" answered my
+father. "But allow me to state to you both that I am at present
+considering another thing, which is, that so long as I have you two boys
+clinging one at each side of me, I am reduced to the necessity of
+climbing this steep hill with a matter of twelve stone in tow, and that
+at my time of life I ought rather to be looking upon you young people as
+crutches to assist my failing steps."
+
+"Do use me as a crutch, papa!" I exclaimed.
+
+"Please, uncle, let me be another crutch," chimed in Aleck, and we
+insinuated ourselves into what we thought a convenient position under
+his elbows. Whereupon, suddenly bringing his weight down upon us, and
+contriving a dexterous movement towards the bank, my father landed us
+both on our backs amidst the grass and the ferns, and was off at such a
+pace that we were some time in catching him up again, out of breath as
+we were with the fall, and the laughing, and the running up the hill.
+
+"Isn't papa great fun?" I asked my cousin, as we were in pursuit.
+
+"Glorious!" was his only response; but I thought it quite sufficient.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+THE SCHOONER-YACHT.
+
+
+There are some unfortunate children who seem fated to have their
+holidays and special occasions drowned in rain. I, on the contrary,
+belonged to the favoured class, accustomed always to expect, and almost
+always to enjoy, sunshine bright and glorious, whensoever birth-days,
+high days, and whole holidays made me specially prize and value it.
+
+So it was by no means with surprise that I opened my eyes the next
+morning to find the sun's golden rays streaming in at my window, and to
+observe, on jumping up and looking out, that there was not a cloud to be
+seen, save, indeed, the shadowy gray morning mist that was fast
+dispersing over the sea. I pattered hastily into Aleck's room before
+proceeding to the business of the toilet, to awaken him, and to urge
+upon him the desirability of getting up as soon as possible, and coming
+down with me into the garden to gather a nosegay for my mother, an
+institution of three years' standing, and which I would not upon any
+account have dispensed with. Aleck murmured such a very sleepy assent to
+my views, that I was constrained to resort to extreme measures, lest he
+should "go off" again, and accordingly took to the gentle persuasion of
+water sprinkled on his face, the counterpane delicately withdrawn from
+his bed, and similar little attentions, which I felt to have been
+completely successful, when a pillow, wielded with the vigour of
+self-defence, gave notice that hostilities were about to be returned,
+and I withdrew to my own room.
+
+It was not long before we were both out in the garden busily engaged in
+a careful inspection of the flower-beds, preparatory to the
+flower-gathering. Any flowers I liked, I might gather on this particular
+morning, but as the nosegay must not be too large, choice was difficult.
+Aleck made plenty of fun, but in reality gave little help.
+
+"What's the use of my advising you," he said, not without reason; "you
+never take my advice when you get it?" And, in truth, I had uniformly
+taken the opposite line to the one he suggested, choosing a scarlet
+geranium where he offered a light-coloured verbena, and a rose when he
+had suggested mignonnette.
+
+"You see," I explained, "mamma won't care for it unless I arrange it all
+myself. Then Nurse has a lace paper ready which I shall put round it to
+make it look better. If you like you can hold the flowers," I added,
+kindly.
+
+But this did not meet my cousin's views.
+
+"I think I'll make a nosegay for uncle," he said, presently; "I suppose
+I may--eh, Willie?"
+
+I felt sure there could be no objection, and signified my opinion from
+the very centre of a geranium bed, in which I was making active
+researches, that would have turned the gardener's hair gray with
+consternation had he not been safely off the premises at the time,
+comfortably engaged in discussing his breakfast. And Aleck set to work,
+and soon gathered a nosegay that almost, if not quite, equalled my own.
+
+Which of our young readers who knows the delight of being let loose on
+some fine morning in a garden, with full permission to pluck flowers at
+their own sweet will, knows when to stop? We certainly did not, and
+should have produced bouquets, at all events, quite unrivalled for size,
+had it not been for the sounding of the first gong, and the appearance
+on the lawn of Nurse herself, still so called, although I was no longer
+her subject, in virtue of her unlimited right of jurisdiction over our
+clothes.
+
+"A fine sight you're making of yourselves, young gentlemen," she said,
+beginning with general statements, and then descending into details. "I
+should like to know what you call that style of hair-dressing which
+means that every hair stands straight out in any direction but the right
+one, and no two of them the same. And, Master Willie, if you think you
+can go down into the dining-room with your tunic in its present
+condition, not to mention your boots, or Master Gordon's jacket, you're
+greatly mistaken. And then to look at your collars! No wonder that the
+bills are as they are, with respect to French polish and blue for clear
+starching; I know that boys, be they young gentlemen or others, cannot
+be expected to act like creatures endowed with reason, but still it
+passes me to understand their ways with respect to clothes well fitted
+too, and made in the most approved fashion."
+
+"I think _we_ should be black and blue if nurse were not really very
+good-natured, though she talks like that," I whispered to Aleck; feeling
+too much the cause she had for strictures upon my personal appearance at
+the time, to take that opportunity of defending the general character of
+boyhood. So we surrendered at discretion, and went up-stairs to make
+ourselves tidy, receiving before the second gong visits of inspection
+from nurse, who had in the meantime tied up our nosegays for us, and
+placed the lace paper round the one I had gathered for my mother.
+
+Very important I felt myself as I went down-stairs, for two little
+packets, folded in white paper, had been entrusted to my care by my
+parents respectively, containing, as I well knew, their presents for
+each other, which were to be delivered by me before breakfast.
+
+Directly after prayers the presentation took place. First, the little
+parcel addressed to my mother, with the message, which I delivered
+demurely enough, that a gentleman who would not give his name, had left
+it for Mrs. Grant yesterday, and--but here I broke down, and my appeal,
+"Oh, papa, I've forgotten what more it was I was to say," produced a
+peal of laughter, and put an end to our little pretence of mystery.
+
+"Your packet is much the smallest, papa," I said; and watched to see
+what would come out of the white paper. My father's face lit up with
+pleasure as he opened a small case and discovered a beautifully executed
+miniature of my mother.
+
+"Willie," he said, "I think the lady who left this for me yesterday must
+have been very like mamma."
+
+"Yes, papa, she was _very_ like indeed," I answered; and then we
+proceeded to inspect the contents of my mother's parcel, and admired, as
+much as it is in boys to admire jewelry, a beautiful bracelet, with
+which she seemed quite as much pleased as my father was with his
+present, and which had attached to it a locket in the form of a heart,
+containing, as we presently discovered, my hair twined with his.
+
+Then Aleck and I had to present our nosegays, which were, of course,
+greatly praised.
+
+"An unusual honour for me!" said my father merrily, when he received
+his. "Willie generally cuts me off with a sprig for my button-hole."
+
+"Aleck gathered it for you quite out of his own head, papa."
+
+"Indeed!" said my father; "that is really the most wonderful thing I
+ever heard! Gathered the nosegay out of his own head! Well, I have been
+told of flowers growing in many strange places before, but never in so
+strange a place as a person's head. Aleck, my dear boy, you will be the
+wonder of the age, so prepare to be made a show of! a flower-garden in
+your head! We must let the gardener know! We ought to place you under
+his cultivation instead of Mr. Glengelly's!"
+
+What a merry breakfast-table we had that morning. My father declared
+that he felt just like a boy, so happy in having his holiday; and Aleck
+and I thought him more amusing and pleasant than any boy, no one ever
+seemed to make us laugh as he did.
+
+"Of course, however," he suggested, "as it is going to be a whole
+holiday, and no work, there need be no eating either."
+
+But that was by no means our view of the matter; we declared ourselves
+more hungry than usual, and made such inroads on the honey that my
+father asked at last whether he had not better send out for the hive.
+
+After breakfast we had our Bible reading with my mother; that was a
+treat and not a lesson--we never missed it even on whole holidays--and
+then my father joined us and took part in consulting over the plans for
+the day.
+
+"We shall dispose of these young gentlemen at once," he said, "for I
+find Groves is expecting them at the Cove, so soon as they can go; and
+they may have the whole morning to employ as they like, in the boats, or
+on the rocks--anything short of being in the water, which I do _not_
+recommend. And for ourselves, Rickson is going to bring round the pony
+carriage at twelve, when Mrs. Grant will be driven out by her humble
+servant, the coachman, supposing always that she sees no just cause or
+impediment." And my father playfully touched his forehead, as if waiting
+for orders.
+
+It was clear to read in my mother's eyes that she saw no difficulty in
+the way of the drive with my father; and we boys were not less ready to
+avail ourselves of the permission to go out at once and for the whole
+morning.
+
+We flew off to the play-room, loaded our pockets with a miscellaneous
+store of nails, string, and implements of one kind or another, such as
+we were wont to use in our various undertakings, and, carrying the
+melancholy hulk which Aleck had not had time to pull to pieces, we set
+off at express speed to the Cove, with Frisk barking at our heels.
+
+There was not much talking during the first part of the scramble, but
+Aleck contrived to get the contents of one of his pockets scattered by a
+hasty jump, and we had to stop and pick up the things, which was the
+signal for our chatter to begin as usual.
+
+"I wonder what surprise old George has for us?" I observed
+confidentially to my cousin.
+
+"Whatever it is, I think he must have been a long time at it," replied
+Aleck; "he's been shut up in the work-shop so often of late."
+
+"Yes," I said; "and since that one peep I told you of, I've never had a
+chance of looking in."
+
+"Perhaps more ships," my cousin suggested, his thoughts running in that
+line.
+
+"Ever since I can remember he's always made me something," I said; "once
+it was a pop-gun, and the next time it was a cart, and then, last time,
+the 'Fair Alice.'"
+
+Aleck listened quietly to the catalogue of my presents, only remarking
+that, if they got better each time, he wondered what they'd come to be
+at last; thus suggesting such a pleasant subject for speculation that I
+did not immediately find any occasion for further talk, but ruminated as
+we pursued our way for a few moments in silence.
+
+"It must be very nice," my cousin resumed presently, "having another day
+for presents besides Christmas-days and birth-days. I wonder where papa
+and mamma will be my next birth-day."
+
+"Whatever it is that George has made for me," I said, "you shall play
+with it too, Aleck. I like you to play with my things."
+
+"You're very good about the 'Fair Alice,' I'm sure," answered my cousin.
+"I wish I had anything to lend you that would give you half as much
+pleasure. I'm afraid this--referring to the boat he was carrying--will
+not come to much, in spite of George's promises."
+
+It certainly did not look encouraging, but by this time we were gaining
+the shingle, the fresh sea-breeze blowing in our faces seemed to quicken
+our steps, and the rest of our way was a race between us and Frisk until
+we reached the lodge.
+
+We found old George on the watch for us, his kind cheery face all in a
+pleasant glow of welcome. He was ready to start directly for the Cove,
+he told us, when the first salutations were over. But I did not feel
+quite so eager, as might have been expected, having a private desire to
+explore the work-shop, of which I perceived the door to be open.
+
+"May I go in now?" I asked, moving towards it.
+
+"Ay, ay, sir," answered my old friend with a merry twinkle in his eye,
+which developed into a broad smile by the time we returned from our
+fruitless inspection of bare benches and tools; and he took to
+singing,--
+
+    "When she came there, the cupboard was bare."
+
+"That Master Willie is a quotation from a celebrated poet. I reckon
+you're ready enough now to come on to the Cove."
+
+We sallied forth accordingly, I convinced that there was some secret in
+store for me still; Aleck full of thoughts about his ship, which he was
+exhibiting to George as he went along, narrating its many
+mis-adventures, and incorrigible tendency to sail bottom upwards, and
+gaining from the old man nothing but a series of chuckles, together with
+assurances which seemed to afford to George himself infinite amusement,
+that "Master Gordon's boat should sail in the Cove as trim and tight as
+the 'Fair Alice' herself."
+
+It was a glorious morning. The sunshine was dancing and sparkling upon
+the water with a thousand gleaming flashes; the little waves came
+lapping playfully upon the sand and shingle to our feet, and made sweet
+music in the recesses of the rocks. We used to call these warm September
+days our Indian summer, and were wont to fancy that they were never so
+bright and beautiful anywhere as at Braycombe.
+
+Groves took a quick comprehensive look towards the offing, and round
+again towards the rocks, and finally off towards the west, and then, as
+if satisfied with the result of his observations, said to us: "It would
+be a beautiful day for the White-Rock Cove, young gentlemen; the wind's
+shifted a bit since early morning, and Ralph will be round in half an
+hour to give us a hand with the oars; if Mrs. Grant wouldn't mind your
+being a bit late for luncheon, as you're to dine in the evening, we
+could do it nicely."
+
+Now if anything had been wanted to add to the zest of our enjoyment,
+this suggestion of Groves's was just the thing. No expedition in the
+whole range of possibilities gave us so much pleasure as this one.
+First, it could only be accomplished in certain states of wind and tide;
+secondly, it occupied a longer time than could be usually available
+except on very propitious half holidays; and, finally, its attractions
+were of the most varied character. For what caverns were there in the
+whole neighbourhood that could compete with those at the White-Rock
+Cove?--with their deep clear pools, in which the pink seaweed and
+gorgeous anemones seemed to find a more congenial home than in any other
+place; with mysterious dark recesses and wonderful natural arches, and
+miniature gulf streams, that offered irresistible attractions to the
+spirit of enterprise, in the way of crossings on slippery
+stepping-stones; and with a soft white beach, spread out at the foot of
+the rocks, abounding with such a wonderful variety of shells, that our
+researches rarely ended without the discovery of some fresh specimen for
+our collections. Nor must we omit to mention the only white rock of any
+size which was to be found in our red sandstone district, which gave its
+name to the Cove, and as to which there were numerous traditions current
+in the neighbourhood.
+
+To the near side of the Cove there was, indeed, a short way through the
+woods, but unless we had a boat we could not reach the caverns, or find
+our way to the most attractive spots for shell gathering.
+
+Groves's suggestion was met, as might be expected, with rapturous
+applause, and by the time that we reached our own Cove, it was decided
+that one of us boys should go up to the house to obtain the necessary
+permission, whilst, in the meantime, the boat should be got ready for
+the sail.
+
+The door of our boat-house was lying open as we came up, and something
+of unusual appearance was dimly visible inside.
+
+"The secret!" I exclaimed, running eagerly forward and drawing to light
+a beautiful large kite with a wondrous flying eagle depicted on it, and
+a tail of marvellous length, together with an apparently inexhaustible
+length of string. "Oh, George, this is what you've been making--how
+beautiful it is!"
+
+"But maybe you don't guess for whom it's intended, sir; I don't deny the
+making of it," said the old man.
+
+"I think I do though," I answered, looking up at his kind, cheery face;
+"I think you've made it for me, George."
+
+"Well, you're about right there, sir, and it's been a real pleasure to
+me the making of it, being, as it were, somewhat of a sailor's craft, it
+having to be driven of the wind, even though it might be said to be more
+for land than water."
+
+I heard Aleck say that it belonged rather to the air than to earth or
+water in his opinion. Then we took to a close inspection of the eagle,
+which we both agreed to be splendid, and became eager for an immediate
+trial of its flying powers.
+
+But here, to our surprise, old George did not at once agree. He wanted
+to see, he told us, whether he could not make Master Gordon's boat sail
+as well as mine. We could have a sailing match, and try which would go
+the best, if only we would get out the "Fair Alice;" and so saying he
+led the way to my own little boat-house, whilst we followed in
+speechless wonder at the absurdity of the proposition.
+
+"As if he could set my boat to rights in a few minutes!" said Aleck to
+me incredulously.
+
+"Here, Master Gordon," continued George, making pretended difficulties
+at the lock; "you had better open the door yourself, sir."
+
+Aleck stooped down to do so. "Why, George!" he exclaimed, "it's as easy
+as possible; what _did_ you make such a fuss about? But--oh--what a
+beauty! Willie--Willie--look!" and so saying, he drew forth a
+beautifully made little vessel, about the same size as my "Fair Alice,"
+but even, as I thought, more perfectly finished, and with two masts.
+
+"A schooner-yacht," my cousin continued, triumphantly. "Oh, Willie, I
+like it a great deal better than even the 'Fair Alice.' Is it yours,
+George?" he inquired.
+
+"No, sir," answered Groves, quickly; "guess again."
+
+"I don't know any one else, unless it's Willie."
+
+"Near it, but not right; try again, sir; somebody else that's not very
+far off."
+
+My cousin coloured with a wild flush of delight; but though he stooped
+down to finger the new yacht in a sort of tender way, as if he loved it,
+he hesitated to make another guess, and I broke in impatiently,--
+
+"Aleck, why are you so nonsensical as to pretend you don't see it's for
+you?"
+
+"That's it indeed, Master Gordon; you'll understand what I meant about
+the sailing match now;" and the old sailor's face lit up afresh with
+kind enjoyment, as he marked the absorbing pleasure which his present
+was giving.
+
+Another moment, and Aleck was almost hugging the old man: "Oh, how very,
+very, very kind of you to make it for me; I like it better a great deal
+than anything I have ever seen, better than the 'Fair Alice' even, and I
+did think that nicer than anything else. May I have it out on the water
+to-day; and couldn't we sail them both together as you said."
+
+There was no time for answering him, as he ran on immediately into a
+minute individual examination of all the details of the little vessel,
+calling for attention and admiration in every case: "Look at the
+bowsprit, and then the rudder; see how delicately it moves; the royal is
+beautiful, and there are three flags; do look, Willie, mine will be the
+admiral's vessel, and I can signal to you."
+
+I looked, but said very little, though Aleck was too much absorbed with
+his own enjoyment to notice this, and kept appealing to me for
+sympathetic interest during the whole operation of unreefing the sails
+and launching the yacht for a trial sail in the Cove.
+
+Nothing certainly could look more graceful and pretty than did the
+little vessel, as it bent to the breeze, and steadily kept its course
+out towards the mouth of the Cove. Aleck clapped his hands exultingly,
+and ran forward to slip the rope across, as the tide was already pretty
+high, and still rising. Then slowly brought the treasure back again, and
+surveyed it at his leisure in one of the little creeks, where the
+shelter of the rocks prevented it from speeding off again on its
+journey. Frisk, too, took a great interest in the new acquisition,
+seeming to recognize in it an addition to his circle of friends. And
+George rubbed his hands, and chuckled with satisfaction, as he repeated
+again that Master Gordon's boat should sail on the Cove as tight and
+trim as the "Fair Alice" herself.
+
+And I--yes, I must confess it, found the old miserable feelings were all
+back again, and vainly tried to shake off the dead weight which had
+settled upon me from the moment that I had clearly understood that
+Aleck, and not I, was to possess the new vessel.
+
+Perhaps George detected something of what was passing in my mind, for,
+when the question arose which of us boys should go up to the house to
+ask permission for the expedition to the White-Rock Cove, he decided at
+once that it should be Aleck, saying that he and I would have time for
+trying the kite meanwhile; and, looking back at it now, I fancy I can
+understand his wanting to take off my thoughts from Aleck's present, and
+make me think about my own.
+
+So Aleck started off by the Zig-zag, and George and I would have set to
+flying the kite immediately, had not he discovered that one of the sails
+of our own boat had been taken up to the lodge, and that he must go and
+look for it first.
+
+"I'll be back in less than a quarter of an hour, sir," he said, however,
+as he left; "and you can have the kite and be on the meadow ready."
+
+I had taken up the kite in my hand, but I threw it aside again the
+moment George turned his back upon me, and sitting down upon the stones
+near the water's edge, with Frisk's fore-paws stretched across my lap,
+looked gloomily at the water and at Aleck's new boat. Evil feelings grew
+stronger and stronger within me as I looked. Though fascinated so that I
+could not take my eyes off it, I hated the very sight of the pretty
+little schooner, and wished heartily that George had never made it. And
+I thought about Aleck, how happy he was this morning, and how miserable
+I was; and I thought it unfair of him to be happier in my own home than
+I was; and then I wondered why George should care for him so much as to
+take all that trouble for him, forgetting how I had begged old George to
+love my cousin who was to be like my brother, and forgetting, too, that
+Aleck's pleasant ways had won upon the old man during the past few
+months, so that he had gained quite an established place in his
+affections.
+
+These and countless other, but similar thoughts, chased each other
+through my head in a far shorter time than they take to relate, whilst
+dreamily I kept watching the little vessel, and mechanically taking note
+of its different points. The sails at first were flapping listlessly,
+the rocks, as I mentioned before, affording shelter from the breeze. But
+presently the breeze shifted a little, and this change, together with
+that produced by the tide, now just at its full height, moved the
+schooner somewhat further from the rocks; then gradually the sails
+filled once again, and after stopping a minute at one point, and a
+minute at another, as, drifted by the motion of the waves, it finally
+escaped from the little creek and stood steadily out into the open
+channel of the Cove. I sprung to my feet and followed in pursuit,
+running or jumping from rock to rock towards the mouth of the Cove. But
+the little vessel got under the lee of a projecting rock, and was
+stopped in its course for a while, so I sat down once more, not caring
+to find my way round to the other side and release it, according to my
+usual fashion, but finding a moody satisfaction in staring straight
+before me, and paying no attention to Frisk, who was flourishing about
+with barks, and waggings of his tail and prickings of his ears, as if
+he thought he ought to be sent in pursuit of the new boat, and
+considered me deficient in public spirit for not stirring in the matter.
+Then, as I steadily refused to notice him, he took to playing with the
+end of the rope on which the rings were fastened, which slipped on to
+the iron stake, as before-mentioned, and constituted our "harbour-bar;"
+seeming as pleased as a kitten with a ball of worsted, when he found
+that he could push the ring up and move it with his paws. In fact, the
+stake was so very short, and the ring so light, that I could see five
+minutes more of such play, and probably the rope would be unfastened,
+and the channel clear to the open sea.
+
+Another moment and I noticed that the little vessel was clearing out
+from its shelter under the rock, the wind coming down into the Cove in
+gusts and draughts, so that it seemed to blow every way in succession,
+and was now standing straight towards the mouth of the harbour.
+
+There was a quick, sharp conflict between the strong whisper of
+temptation and the protesting voice of conscience, when I marked the
+position of the boat, and saw also, that in another moment Frisk's
+antics would have unfastened the barrier between it and the wide waters
+beyond. A quick, sharp conflict, and I came off defeated.
+
+Hastily turning my back upon the harbour-bar, I ran to the head of the
+Cove without disturbing Frisk, who was so taken up with his newly found
+amusement, that he did not miss me; took up the kite and sped off to the
+meadow, which lay between the Cove and the lodge, where I was joined by
+the dog, two or three minutes after, panting and breathless at my having
+stolen a march upon him.
+
+George, too, came a minute later from the other side into the meadow,
+which, although out of sight of the Cove, owing to the rise of the
+ground, was as good a place to wait in as any, since Aleck would have to
+pass through it on his way from the house.
+
+Ralph appeared also, and through our united efforts, and to our united
+satisfaction, my new kite was soon soaring higher than any kite ever
+seen before by any member of our little party; great was my excitement
+in holding the string and letting it out, or taking it in as I ran from
+one part to another, Frisk the while dashing about wildly, and barking
+as though at some strange bird of which he entertained suspicions.
+
+Old George looked as pleased as if he had been a boy of six, rather than
+a man of sixty, and Ralph rushed recklessly here and there and
+everywhere, with his head thrown back and his eyes rivetted upon the
+soaring kite, until, like Genius in the fable, he was suddenly prostrate
+through stumbling over an unnoticed stump.
+
+"See what comes of not looking where you're going," moralized George, as
+he picked him up and gave him a general shaking by way of seeing that
+nothing had come loose in his tumble; a sentiment from which it is
+possible the youngster might have derived more profit, had not his
+elderly relative experienced a similar mishap almost immediately
+afterwards.
+
+I was the only heavy-hearted one of the trio; and even I forgot my cares
+and anxieties in the glorious excitement of holding in the kite, which
+tugged and tugged at the string as if it would carry me up to the
+skies, rather than give in.
+
+"I wonder what's kept Master Aleck such a time?" said old George, after
+we had spent nearly three-quarters of an hour kite-flying.
+
+The load at my heart came back again in a moment as I answered
+hurriedly, that I did not mind Aleck's being detained, for the pleasure
+of flying the kite was as good as anything. And George, who inferred
+that the cloud he had noticed before over me had passed away, rejoiced
+accordingly.
+
+It was more than an hour from the time of his leaving, when Aleck
+reappeared, holding one side of a small hamper, whilst one of the
+men-servants held the other.
+
+"Lots of good things for luncheon," he said, by way of explanation, as
+they deposited their burden on the grass. And then he proceeded to
+unfold how some one had been calling on his uncle and aunt, and he could
+not speak to them at first; and then how his uncle had told him the
+drive would have to be later, and more distant than they had intended;
+and, finally, that the game of cricket being given up, we might have
+our luncheon and picnic at the White-Rock Cove, returning any
+reasonable time in the afternoon.
+
+"Won't it be splendid?" Aleck continued, gleefully, whilst I drew in
+line, and my kite slowly descended; "we shall have time for the sailing
+match, and madrepore hunt, and the caverns--everything!"
+
+I assented with as much of pleasure in my tone as was at command,
+thinking after all how very pleasant it would be if--there came the
+_if_--and I scarcely dared admit to myself, how sorry I began to feel at
+the thought that my man[oe]uvre had probably succeeded, or how sorely
+the disappointment to George and my cousin would mar our happiness! If
+only I could know that what I had wished to happen an hour ago had not
+happened, then how wonderfully light my heart would feel. A sickening
+feeling of anxiety, such as I had not dreamt of in my little happy life
+before, came over me, and nervously I hurried on the winding up of my
+string.
+
+"What a noble kite it is," said my cousin, "I wish I could go up upon
+one!"
+
+"'If wishes were horses'--you know the old saying, Master Gordon,"
+responded Groves. "I think you'd be sorry enough after getting up five
+hundred feet into the air, to feel that a puff of wind might tumble you
+over, and make the coming down a trifle quicker, and less agreeable,
+than the going up."
+
+"It was the going up, and not the coming down that I meant," rejoined
+Aleck, "though I have heard papa say that coming down from a great
+height does not hurt."
+
+"Ugh!" I ejaculated, "you wouldn't have me believe that. Just a little
+while before you came to us I had a bad fall off the table. I can tell
+you it hurt!"
+
+"I've fallen, too, off a tree," answered my cousin, not to be outdone,
+for boys are wont to brag of their honourable scars, "and it hurt a
+great deal, but I mean falling from higher still. One of the sailors I
+talked to on board ship had fallen from a mast, and he told me that he
+went over and over; the first time he went over seemed quite a long
+time, and between that and the second time he seemed to remember almost
+everything he had ever cared about much in all his life, but after the
+second going over he never knew anything until he found himself lying in
+the cabin, and the doctor setting his arm, which had been broken in the
+fall, though he never felt it."
+
+"I'll be bound he felt it enough when the doctor got to work upon him,"
+remarked George.
+
+"Yes; but he didn't feel it when it broke," returned Aleck, who wished
+to establish his point.
+
+By this time the stately kite was lying on the grass. I lifted it up,
+and we started in procession for the Cove, Aleck acting train-bearer to
+the long tail, and winding it up as he went along; and Groves and Ralph
+carrying the hamper.
+
+Another moment, and we were in sight of the Cove. My heart was beating
+violently, and I felt the crimson flush mount suddenly to my face, and
+then leave it again; but no one else noticed it, and as yet I could not
+see to the harbour-bar, so as to know whether the ship were safe or not.
+The little creek in which it had been left was, however, full in view,
+and Aleck instantly observed that his new treasure was not there.
+
+But there was an entire absence of uneasiness in his tone, as he quietly
+remarked,--
+
+"I suppose you put it into the boat-house lest it should be blown about
+whilst we were away;" and without waiting for an answer he placed the
+rolled-up tail of the kite in my hand, and ran forwards to look into the
+boat-house for it.
+
+It was in vain, however, that he searched first my miniature boat-house,
+and then every nook and corner of the real one.
+
+"It's not there," he said. "I thought you must have put it away."
+
+"I never said so," I answered; and then a bright thought coming to me,
+as to what would be an impregnable position to take up in all future
+inquiry, I boldly added, "I never touched it after you went away."
+
+"Where can it be, then?" said Aleck; and yet, though it was clearly a
+hopeless task, we once again looked carefully for the missing treasure
+in both boat-houses. There was the "Fair Alice," my own beautiful little
+vessel, that had seemed the most perfect thing of its kind, until the
+arrival of the new one; but the other was nowhere to be found.
+
+"Tell you what, Master Gordon," said old George, "the wind's been
+uncommon shifting and fanciful this morning, and we left her with sails
+set; depend upon it, sir, that she's been drifting out with the tide a
+bit, and the wind so off shore, as it is now, she'd be up towards the
+mouth of the Cove. We ought to have thought of the wind and the change
+of the tide; it will be well if she's not out to sea."
+
+"Oh, no fear of that!" exclaimed Aleck, joyfully, "because I myself put
+the harbour-bar across this morning when I sailed her first;" and so
+saying, he bounded off along the rocks towards the mouth of the Cove,
+the rest of us following almost as fast.
+
+One hasty glance and I knew that what I had expected had taken place;
+the ring which tightened the rope across, so as to constitute a barrier,
+was now under water--the rope, it must be understood, being arranged to
+lie along the bottom when not specially adjusted--the channel out to sea
+was perfectly unimpeded, and there was no trace of the little vessel
+which, an hour and a half before, had been sailing so merrily upon the
+water.
+
+"O George!" exclaimed Aleck, "see the rope is down; it must have gone
+out to sea; it _can't_ be gone!"
+
+But Aleck's face of sad conviction belied his words.
+
+"It can't be gone!" he repeated; and yet the tears of disappointment
+were forcing themselves into his eyes, though he battled up bravely
+against his trouble, and tried to believe still that there was some
+mistake.
+
+Then we betook ourselves to searching in every nook and corner of the
+Cove, exploring impossible places amongst the rocks, and once again
+returning to look through the boat-house; I, hypocritically, as active
+as others, lest there should be any suspicion raised.
+
+"Master Willie," said Groves at last, as if a bright thought had struck
+him, "I know what it must be, sir. You're up to a prank sometimes--in
+fact, rather often--and you've hidden away the yacht, for there's been
+no one else in the Cove but you; though where you can have put it I'm
+puzzled to say, seeing there's not a place fit to hide a walnut-shell I
+haven't looked in, not to say a schooner yacht drawing half a foot of
+water."
+
+All faces looked relieved by the idea--the three other faces I mean. But
+as its tendency was to fasten a certain measure of responsibility upon
+myself, I thought it better to become indignant.
+
+"I don't know why you say I must have done it," I answered hastily. "I
+never touched the boat; what should I touch it for, it wasn't mine; you
+didn't make it for me. I told Aleck I hadn't touched it."
+
+"Master Willie, Master Willie," expostulated Groves, "don't be angry; I
+only thought you might have been up to a bit of fun, and I was
+mistaken."
+
+"Then, George--O George!" exclaimed my cousin, grasping him by the arm,
+"she _must_ have gone out to sea;" and he tried hard to gulp down his
+feelings; "you know the harbour-bar is down."
+
+"And I should like to know how it came to be down," said George,
+severely. A new idea evidently passed all in a moment through my
+cousin's mind. With a fiery flashing in his eyes that I had never seen
+in him before, he turned suddenly upon me.
+
+"You naughty, wicked boy," he said.
+
+"You didn't touch the boat you say; but you didn't like my having it;
+you didn't like its being mine, because it was better than yours, and
+had two masts; and so you let down the bar, and--and she's got out to
+sea and is lost!" And so saying he burst into a passionate fit of tears.
+
+It is difficult to say which of us was the most surprised by this
+unlooked-for accusation of Aleck's. I had never seen my cousin in such a
+temper before, but was far too conscious of the wrong part I had acted
+to be able at once to answer with a protest of innocence. So that in the
+very short space of time which was occupied by George telling Aleck the
+case was not hopeless, and the vessel might be found yet, and that he'd
+be sorry for the wrong words he had said to me, a rapid controversy
+passed silently between me and my conscience somewhat in this wise:--
+
+_Conscience._--"You know that what he said is true about your not liking
+his having the schooner, and you know you wanted it to get lost."
+_Answer._--"But I can say with perfect truth that I did not touch it _or
+the rope_."
+
+_Conscience._--"You know if you had called off Frisk the schooner would
+not have been lost." _Answer._--"But I never _saw_ Frisk unloose the
+ring; and I can say, with truth, that until just now I did not _know_
+that it was not safe."
+
+_Conscience._--"That will be a lie all the same. You have often been
+told that what makes a lie is the intention to deceive, and not the
+words only." _Answer._--"What's the use of telling now that I really am
+very sorry it has happened. It's not any good confessing to Aleck that I
+might have prevented it. After all, it was Frisk who did it, and I did
+not even see Frisk do it. And Aleck's in such a towering passion; I
+could never face him and have him know the whole."
+
+_Conscience_, more feebly.--"That's bad reasoning; you ought simply to
+find out what is right, and do it." _Answer._--"And now that I come to
+think of it, it's a great shame that Aleck should fly out so at me, and
+I won't stand it." And at this point the voice of conscience became
+perfectly silenced, and, turning defiantly to my cousin, I exclaimed,--
+
+"I don't know what you mean, Aleck, by accusing me of it; I never
+touched the rope, and I never touched the boat; I'm quite certain that I
+did not, and it's a lie of yours to say that I did."
+
+"O Master Willie, Master Aleck," gasped old George, in consternation.
+"Young gentlemen, these words are not fit to come from such as you; what
+would your parents say?"
+
+But our brows lowered angrily, and we made no response; whilst George
+continued, abandoning in his dismay the usual form of address, and
+speaking as from age to youth, "My boys, children, have you not been
+taught of Him 'who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He
+suffered, He threatened not.' Christian boys should try to be like their
+Master, and such words as passed between you should never be heard
+amongst them. You've forgotten yourselves, young gentlemen, and you'll
+be very sorry soon for what you have said to each other. Master Aleck,
+you're wrong, sir, to say that Master Willie did it when he denies it.
+I've known Master Willie since he was born, and he speaks the truth.
+He's told me with the greatest of honestness when he's done things
+which was wrong, and no one else knowed of; as, for instance, when he
+ate the cherries and swallowed the stones, and when he got the cat's
+tail all over pitch--I can remember a score of things he's told me of,
+quite frank and open, and I'm sure he's spoken the truth now."
+
+I felt somewhat self-condemned whilst George thus enumerated the
+instances of my candour in simple unconsciousness of the fact that
+confessions of scrapes were generally received by him with such
+indulgence that it required the smallest possible amount of moral
+courage to make them.
+
+"Shake hands, young gentlemen," he added, after another pause, "and be
+friends, and let us all do what we can to find the schooner--she's cost
+me many an hour's work."
+
+And at this moment, for the first time, it flashed upon me painfully how
+great the disappointment was to George as well as to Aleck, and I was
+sorry, more sorry than I had hitherto felt.
+
+The pair of small chubby hands that met in the old sailor's rugged palm
+were unused to so ceremonious a meeting, and their owners were somewhat
+solemnized at being treated like grown-up gentlemen. But a fierce look
+of suspicion still lingered in Aleck's face, and I doubt not a glow of
+anger and excitement in mine, which showed that Groves's peacemaking had
+not been thoroughly effectual--we _felt_ still as we had _spoken_
+before.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+THE MISSING SHIP.
+
+
+In the meantime Ralph had been busy getting all the things ready for our
+sail; so we took our places in the boat, and stood out to sea. The wind
+being steadily off shore, our progress was rapid; we bounded lightly
+over the water, and had soon placed some distance between us and the
+Cove.
+
+George sat at the helm, keeping a keen look out in every direction;
+whilst Aleck, Ralph, and I, strained our eyes in fruitless efforts to
+discover the tiny white sail we were longing to see.
+
+The glorious sunshine dancing and sparkling on the water seemed to mock
+the gloomy heavy-heartedness that was darkening the hours of our long
+anticipated holiday. Aleck and I were almost entirely silent. When we
+spoke, it was to Ralph, or George, as convenient third parties; not a
+word would we say to each other.
+
+Old George did his best, with clumsy kindness, to make lively remarks
+from time to time; but the responsive laugh was wanting; and, after
+experiencing two or three signal failures, he struck his colours and
+yielded to the spell that had fallen upon us.
+
+The whole Braycombe coast for many miles is deeply indented with creeks
+and coves, and diversified with outstanding rocks and promontories,
+about the most picturesque and the most dangerous part of our southern
+shores. Old George decided that probably the object of our search had
+been driven in by the fitful wind amongst some of the near rocks and
+creeks, and might, perhaps, be recovered by a careful search. So, warily
+steered by our experienced sailor, we set ourselves to the work, having
+scanned, to the best of our ability, the open sea beyond with a pocket
+telescope.
+
+What with the tackings frequently necessary, and the taking down sail in
+one place, and then putting it up in another, the time passed on
+rapidly; and we were quite surprised, as we finished the exploration of
+one of the little inlets, to hear Groves remark that it was "nigh upon
+two o'clock, and that we'd all be the better of a little food." For the
+first time in our lives we had forgotten to be hungry.
+
+It was decided that we should spread the luncheon on a broad flat stone,
+near which our boat was now curtseying listlessly on the water, and take
+our repast ashore. George and Ralph lifted out the hamper, and spread
+the cloth, and arranged the various good things we found inside.
+
+"And don't let us forget," said old George, reverently, lifting his hat,
+"the thanks we owe to our Father, which art in heaven, for His bounties
+provided for us."
+
+The train of thought thus started seemed to go on in his mind, after we
+had set to the serious business of luncheon. "You see, young gentlemen,"
+he presently continued, "we're to remember that all the good things He
+sends us come from the same hand that sends us our disappointments too;
+and though we don't always see it, it's true that the troubles and
+trials are amongst the _good_ things. Many a time I've kept a-thinking
+of that verse which says, 'He that spared not His only-begotten Son, but
+delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not, with Him, also freely
+give us all things'--the _all things_ there meaning, you see, the
+troubles and losses as much as the gains, and successes, and pleasures.
+And I think it's the same with children as with grown people; _their_
+trials, which are small to grown-up people, are great to _them_, and
+they don't come by chance. And, when we are able to feel this way, young
+gentlemen, it's easier to bear up when the wind seems dead against you,
+and to say, when things go wrong, and there's a deal of beating about,
+and a shipping of heavy seas, as you're taught to say in the Lord's
+prayer, 'Thy will be done.'"
+
+I forget what was said after George finished this homely, but practical
+and excellent children's sermon; but I can remember that Aleck's face
+looked somewhat lighter; the words seemed to have touched some inner
+chord, and to have met _his_ troubles more than they did _mine_. _My_
+load, on the contrary, lay all the more heavily on my conscience; as I
+realized that I was entirely shut out from such consolations as George
+tried to offer, so that I became _more_ rather than _less_ gloomy.
+
+The old man resumed the thread of conversation soon again.
+
+"It seems strange now," he said, "to think how we're grieving over this
+bit of a toy ship, and then to think of how one's felt seeing, as I did
+once, a good ship with her crew, men and boys, clinging to the rigging,
+and going down before your eyes, and you not able to help them, though
+they kept a-screeching out and a-calling to you all the while."
+
+"Couldn't you do anything?" we both exclaimed, our interest now fully
+awakened; "did you try to help them?"
+
+"Oh yes, sir," George answered, and I could see the tears standing in
+his eyes; "God be praised, we didn't see 'em go down without doing what
+we could for them; and I'm glad to think of it, though my life didn't
+seem worth the having for many a long day afterward."
+
+"Oh, why?" asked Aleck, eagerly; and I, in spite of our being upon terms
+of not speaking, caught myself whispering to him, "Don't you
+know?--Ralph's father was drowned."
+
+But George went on, with his eyes fixed on the water, as if the great
+sea which had swallowed up his dead were a book, and he were reading
+from it.
+
+"His father"--and with a turn of the head he indicated Ralph--"was with
+me; he was but four-and-twenty, and as handsome as handsome; a young
+fellow such as there was not many to be seen like him; and he was a good
+son--a good son to his mother and to me--and a child of God, too, Heaven
+be praised! 'Father,' says he, 'we must try to save them;' and, with the
+sound of those poor creatures' cries ringing in my ears, I dared not say
+no, though the odds were fearful against us, and I was careful over
+_him_, though I'd not have minded for myself. Well, sir, two others
+joined us, and we succeeded in getting off; but just before we reached
+the sinking vessel, a heavy sea struck us, and in a moment we were all
+struggling in the water. I thought I heard Ralph--_he_ was Ralph too--I
+thought I heard him just say, 'God have mercy on my poor Betsey!'--she
+as you know, Master Willie--and then I knew nothing until I woke up in
+a room where some kind people were rubbing me with hot flannels, and
+offering me hot stuff to drink. So soon as I could speak, 'Where's
+Ralph?' I says, looking round for him; and then I saw in their faces how
+it was; and they came round me, treating me quite tenderly like a child,
+though they were rough sailors. And one of 'em, a God-fearing man, who
+had spoken a bit to us many a time when we'd no parson, was put forward
+by them, and he comes and whispers to me, 'You'll see him again, George,
+when the sea shall give up its dead. You'll meet before the throne of
+God and of the Lamb.' Well, sir, I was but a poor frail mortal, and my
+senses left me again, and I was long of coming round. But ever since
+then, as I look at the wide water, I seem to hear a voice saying, the
+sea shall give up its dead, and we'll meet some day before the throne of
+God and of the Lamb. Yes; I'm not afraid of the open Book for him, poor
+boy, for long afore that day I knew he'd taken his sailing orders under
+the Great Captain. 'Father,' he's said to me, 'I know Jesus Christ has
+_died_ for me; I must _live_ for him.' And when the poor body was washed
+ashore, there was his little Testament in his pocket, all dripping with
+the sea water. I dried it, and found it could still be read, and even
+some of his marks; there's not another thing I prize so much."
+
+Old George took the little unsightly-looking volume from his pocket, and
+gave it reverently to us to look at, and Aleck and I bent over it
+together, and deciphered on the title-page, in crooked lines of round
+handwriting, the name, _Ralph Groves_--_his book_; and underneath was a
+verse of a hymn, evidently remembered and not copied, which must have
+been one of those sung amongst the Methodists on that part of the coast
+where, as George told me, Ralph used to attend their meetings.
+
+    "Lord Jesus, be my constant Guide,
+      Then when the word is given,
+    Bid death's dark stream its waves divide,
+      And land me safe in heaven."
+
+"You see, young gentlemen," resumed George, when we had given him back
+the little book, "things which seem hard to bear--ay, and _are_ hard to
+bear now--are but little things after all, and will be as nothing in
+that day when all wrong words and tempers will seem great things, far
+greater than we sometimes think."
+
+Aleck and I had listened with full hearts to Groves's touching account
+of his son's death, and it was in a subdued quiet manner that we rose up
+from our meal and settled ourselves again in the boat. There was
+evidently an inward struggle going on in my cousin's mind, and I almost
+feared that he was going to ask my pardon, which I should have disliked,
+knowing myself to be so much the most in the wrong. It was quite a
+relief to find that in this I was mistaken; he only remained, as before,
+very silent; and I, too, was silent, and found myself, with eyes fixed
+on the water, thinking of George's son, and of the opened Book, and
+wondering concerning the things written therein, and whether all that
+had happened this day would be found there; whilst old George's words
+seemed to repeat themselves over in my mind, and I kept saying to
+myself, "The loss of the ship will be a very little thing then, whilst
+all wrong words and tempers will seem greater than we think."
+
+We had not resumed our search very long, when Aleck declared that he saw
+something white in the distance which he thought was the little vessel.
+We all eagerly turned our eyes in the direction indicated, and although
+no one felt very sure that we had at last discovered the object of our
+search, there was sufficient uncertainty to make us eager in pursuit. We
+had to tack frequently, but at last reached the little white thing which
+inspired our hopes, and, alas! discovered that it was only a whitened
+branch of a tree washed out from shore, on which the wet leaves
+glistened and shone in the afternoon sun. It was a fresh disappointment
+to us all, and the time our chase had occupied prevented the possibility
+of any further research. Even as it was, we were quite late in reaching
+the Cove, and found that my father had been on the watch for us with his
+telescope, and had been greatly perplexed by the erratic character of
+our movements.
+
+Of course he was instantly told the tragical history of our day. Aleck,
+whose sorrow had been renewed by our fruitless search, did not hesitate
+to lay emphasis upon the fact that I had been left alone at the Cove;
+and I was quite startled by the quick abrupt manner in which my father
+turned round to me and said,--
+
+"Willie, did you meddle with the ship or the rope whilst Aleck was
+away?"
+
+But, thankful that the inquiry took this form, I was able to answer
+unhesitatingly,--
+
+"No, papa, I did not touch the boat once, or the rope either, this
+morning, and it's very, very wrong of Aleck to say that I did."
+
+Whilst Aleck, the dark angry look flashing once again from his eyes,
+exclaimed,--
+
+"I know he hated my having the yacht; I'm sure he wanted me to lose it."
+
+Mr. Gordon, although as much shocked at this outburst as George had
+been, was not disposed to treat the matter quite as he had done.
+
+That both of us were guilty of wrong temper there could be no doubt, but
+he saw also that there was still something to be cleared up; and instead
+of quenching the subject by telling us we had both behaved badly, and
+deserved to be unhappy, as is the self-indulgent custom of many grown-up
+people in the matter of children's quarrels, he forbade any further
+recrimination, and after dinner was over, calmly and quietly inquired
+into every particular of our story, with as much care as if he had been
+on his magistrate's bench in court, and this were a case of great
+importance; first questioning Aleck, and then myself.
+
+As my examination drew to a close, however, Aleck once again burst in
+with the determined assertion that I knew more than I had said.
+
+My mother, who was present, was indignant at his persistency, saying
+that in all my life I had never told a lie, and it was unpardonable thus
+to speak of me; whilst my father simply said, "Since you are not able to
+conduct yourself with propriety, Aleck, you must go to bed." And my
+cousin left the room accordingly, whilst I was subjected to the moral
+torture of a further cross-examination; from which, however, strong in
+the distinct assertion that I had not touched either rope or boat, I
+came off clear.
+
+One step, indeed, my father gained, in the course of his inquiry,
+towards the truth. In answer to one of his questions, I used the
+pronoun _we_.
+
+"Who's _we_?" asked my father, quickly.
+
+"Frisk and I, papa."
+
+"Then you had Frisk with you, and I suppose as playful as usual?"
+
+"Yes, papa."
+
+"Did Frisk get at the ship or the rope, do you think?"
+
+"I never saw him touch the ship; I don't think he could touch it; but
+then I went to the meadow to fly the kite."
+
+"Did Frisk get near the rope?"
+
+"Yes, papa, just before I came away; but I didn't see him slip off the
+ring, though now I think he must have done so."
+
+"You think so because you saw him going near the rope?"
+
+"Yes, papa; but I can't tell you any more. I went to fly my kite, and
+Frisk came up quite panting soon after, having run hard because I had
+happened to leave him behind."
+
+"It was the dog did it," said my father quite decidedly, turning to my
+mother. "Willie, you should have been more careful; you might have known
+it was not safe to leave Frisk in the Cove; but I quite believe your
+word, and that you had no hand in the matter."
+
+Then the subject was dismissed: I played a game of chess with my mother,
+and finally went up to bed at the usual time, to receive, before going
+to sleep, the never-omitted visit, which was the peaceful closing to so
+many peaceful days.
+
+My mother stayed but for a moment on this evening, going on almost at
+once to my cousin's room.
+
+I heard all about that visit afterwards, so that I am able to tell what
+passed almost as well as if I had been present.
+
+My mother found Aleck lying wearily and restlessly in bed, with tearful
+eyes and hot flushed face, that told of sleep being by no means near.
+She sat down beside him and said, "It was a sad disappointment for you,
+Aleck, to lose your pretty new boat; and I daresay you feel it hard not
+to have your own dear mamma to tell all about it."
+
+Aleck tried to answer, but failed, bursting into tears instead, and my
+mother talked on in her gentle loving way until the sobs grew less
+frequent, and my cousin became at last quite calm. She told him that I
+had always spoken the truth--she little knew--and that she could not
+doubt my word, and that my father had become quite convinced it was the
+mischievous work of the dog that had brought about all this trouble; and
+then she made him feel how wrong it was to have accused me, instead of
+believing my word; so that, before she left the room, he had told her he
+was very very sorry for what he had said, and he hoped she and his uncle
+would forgive him, and that he meant to ask my forgiveness also. I know
+that my mother told him of a higher forgiveness that must be obtained
+before he could feel at peace with his conscience, and spoke to him
+somewhat in the same manner that George had, about trials great or small
+being kindly and lovingly permitted by a heavenly Father.
+
+I was almost asleep when my door opened, and the pattering of shoeless
+feet announced a visitor. Aleck was groping in the dark, and, guided by
+my voice, reached the bottom of my bed, discovered the mound raised by
+my feet, felt his way along the ridge of my person, and having arrived
+at my head, flung his arms around my neck, and kissing me warmly--in my
+eye by mistake--said he could not sleep until he had told me how sorry
+he was for having behaved so badly, and suspected me, and called me bad
+names. He was quite sure now that Frisk had done the mischief, and he
+hoped I would forgive him, adding that there was still just a chance of
+finding the vessel, and that he meant to be up very early, and out by
+six o'clock the next morning, to have a good look down in the White-Rock
+Cove. "I daresay I shall find it after all, Willie, and if not--why, I
+must finish the old thing we've been working at so long. But I once
+found a knife of mine after I had lost it a week in a hay-field; so you
+see I'm lucky." He kissed me again and went back to his bed, whilst I
+lay tossing and wakeful, full of shame and self-reproach, and yet more
+than ever built up in my determination that I would not, and could not,
+confess the whole truth; it would be too great a shame and humiliation
+after having so fully committed myself, and when my parents had
+expressed such perfect confidence in my truthfulness.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+ANOTHER SEARCH.
+
+
+Half-past eight o'clock in the morning. The gong had sounded, and we had
+all assembled in the library for prayers. All but Aleck, who, for the
+first time since he had been with us at Braycombe, was not in his usual
+place.
+
+My father missed him, and turned to ask me where he was.
+
+"I expect he has gone out, papa," I replied; "he meant to go down to the
+shore to look for his boat."
+
+"If you please, sir," said Bennet the footman, "I saw Master Gordon
+quite early this morning, maybe about six o'clock; he telled me he was
+going down to look after the ship."
+
+Family prayer was concluded and breakfast began, and still Aleck did not
+appear. As he had no watch, it was not surprising that he should
+mistake the time to a certain extent; but we all wondered he should be
+so very late, and at last my father began to feel uneasy. "He must have
+been a long way off not to have heard the eight o'clock bell," he said;
+"yet he's a careful boy; it seems unlikely he should come to any harm."
+
+"Run out on the lawn, Willie," suggested my mother, "and take a good
+look round; perhaps he may be in sight."
+
+But although I put a liberal interpretation upon the direction, and not
+only ran out upon the lawn, but also down the drive for a little way,
+and up the overhanging bank, from which we could got a sight far off
+towards the White-Rock Cove, I could see nothing of my cousin, and
+returned breathless to the dining-room without the tidings that my
+parents expected.
+
+The post had come in whilst I was out, and my father was engaged in the
+perusal of a letter from Uncle Gordon, reading little bits of it aloud
+to my mother as he went on. "Just starting for the Pyrenees ... need
+send no letters for a fortnight ... address Poste Restante, Marseilles,
+after this; the constant change of air has done wonders," &c. &c. When
+the letter was finished, I saw there was one enclosed for Aleck, which
+according to custom I laid upon his plate, repeating, at the same time,
+that I had looked in every direction, but could see nothing of my
+cousin.
+
+"He must have gone down to the lodge, and perhaps Groves kept him,
+finding it was late, and gave him something to take," said my mother.
+Whereupon my father rung the bell, and desired Bennet to go down at once
+to the lodge and inquire whether Master Gordon had been there, whilst in
+the mean time I finished my breakfast, and was sent to the school-room
+to get my lessons ready for Mr. Glengelly.
+
+It was not long before my father came to me. "Willie," he said, "I can't
+understand what has kept Aleck, and I fear he may have hurt himself, and
+not be able to make his way home; so I am going out at once to look for
+him, and you must help me."
+
+There was something rather dignified in being thus spoken to by my
+father, and, had it not been for the secret load, of which I dared not
+tell him, but which already began to weigh with additional heaviness on
+my heart, I should have felt somewhat elated at finding myself of
+importance.
+
+My father continued in a quick, decided manner: "Leave your lessons, and
+run off at once to the lodge. If you find Ralph anywhere about, so much
+the better, he can go with you; in any case you and George could manage
+to get the little boat round to the White-Rock Cove, keeping in shore as
+nearly as George thinks safe, and keep a sharp look-out all the way
+along for your cousin.--Stay; on second thoughts Rickson shall run down
+to the Cove too, in case Ralph is not to be found; you will want another
+hand."
+
+I did not need twice telling, but was off in an instant, and, breathless
+with excitement, reached the lodge a few minutes after.
+
+My story was soon told, and George lost no time in getting out the
+smallest of our boats, and with Ralph, who happened, as George said, to
+be fortunately "handy" on the occasion, we started upon our search. I
+could not help thinking of the morning before, and its search, but the
+excitement now kept up my spirits; it was something so new to be thus
+suddenly dismissed from lessons, and trusted to help in what was
+evidently considered a matter of some anxiety; _why_ they should be so
+anxious I did not trouble myself to reflect, having little idea but that
+Aleck had wandered further than he intended, and perhaps experienced
+some difficulty on his way home.
+
+We glided along quickly and pleasantly enough, past the first inlet, and
+the second, from our own Cove, scrutinizing all the banks, and rocks,
+and shady nooks, so familiar through many a wild exploring of ours; to
+reach the third we were obliged to stand out a considerable distance to
+sea, as the promontory bounding the White-Rock Cove on this side
+stretched far beyond the other rocky buttresses, making one of the most
+prominent land-marks in that part of the south coast. It was underneath
+its shelter that we had lunched the day before, and as we passed by the
+broad, flat stone in the little creek, the conversation we had had there
+repeated itself again and again in my mind.
+
+It was about half-past eleven o'clock when we had cleared this point,
+and George gave the order to haul down sail.
+
+"It's best to take to the oars now, Master Willie; we'd be a long while
+at it if we tacked--Now, Ralph, pull steady--You'll be about right if
+you keep her head straight for the White-Rock, Master Willie"--I was at
+the helm--"ease her, ease her a bit; more to port, sir, more to
+port--now steady again--now ship oars--the tide's running in pretty
+fast, and will carry us in." George's commands, thus given at intervals
+as we doubled the promontory and made for the Cove, alone broke silence,
+until, having shipped oars, there was nothing particular for him to do,
+and then all at once his tongue seemed unloosed. "Poor boy," he said,
+"it would be a sad day to us all if aught has happened amiss to him, and
+his parents too off in foreign parts. How cut up he was about his bit
+ship yesterday, but it matters little if he is safe to-day. I mind now
+he told me just afore we parted yesterday, that he thought it was quite
+possible our little ship might have driven ashore here. But I hope he
+hasn't been rash in trying to climb where it's dangerous even for an
+active boy like him."
+
+"He told me last night," I said, "that he meant to look all along the
+shore as far as this. Papa said we were to come here just in case--"
+
+We were getting close into shore now, and Ralph, standing up in front of
+me, held his oar to push us off from the rocks until we reached our
+usual place for landing. George sat facing me, so that Ralph was the
+only one who was able to see well ahead at the moment. There was
+something in his manner which startled me, as he bent down all at once
+and simply said, "Grandfather!" George turned round in a moment, and his
+short ejaculation and smothered "Oh!" confirmed me in a terrible fear
+they had made some discovery, and almost at the same instant, leaning
+forward, I could see my cousin lying prostrate on the beach just by the
+White Rock, at the bottom of a steep part of the cliff, and scarcely a
+foot from the water's edge.
+
+I felt my knees shaking, as I tried to rise and could not; tried to
+speak, and the words died on my lips; then, for a moment, buried my face
+in my hands, and gasped out presently, "He's dead." I thought for a
+moment that I should die too, the sense of utter, hopeless, unbearable
+misery seemed so terrible.
+
+[Illustration: THE DISCOVERY.]
+
+George only answered, "Please the Lord, Master Willie, it may not be so
+bad as that;" and hastily drawing in the boat to the rocks, he leapt
+ashore, and made his way, in less time than it takes to relate, to where
+my cousin was lying. Ralph and I got ashore also, but my knees trembled
+so that I could not stand, but sunk down upon the rock. Ralph flung the
+rope to me. "Keep her from drifting, master," he said, "and I'll run and
+help grandfather."
+
+It was a moment of terrible suspense. Groves knelt at Aleck's side, bent
+his cheek down to his lips, then listened for the beating of his
+heart--he might have heard mine at that minute--and then turning towards
+me he exclaimed, "He's still alive!"
+
+I had courage to move now, and fastening the rope, I came and stood by
+Groves, as he knelt on the beach beside Aleck. I could scarcely believe
+it was not death when I looked at the colourless face and closed eyes,
+and needed all Groves' reassurance to convince me that he had not been
+mistaken when he said my cousin was still alive.
+
+"Thank God, Master Willie, we came when we did!" he added reverently,
+and pointing to the waves as they washed up to our feet; "ten minutes
+more, and the tide will be up over this place where he's lying. We must
+move him at once--but he's deadly cold. Off with your jacket, Ralph and
+put it over him, and--oh! see here!" he pointed to the arm which hung
+down heavily as he gently raised the unconscious form,--"the arm's
+broken."
+
+The question now was how we were to get him home. By land it would not
+be more than an hour's climb; but then a _climb_ it must be, and this
+was almost impossible under the circumstances; whilst, on the other
+hand, with the wind no longer in our favour, it would be a good two
+hours getting back by water, and there was the anxiety of not being able
+to let my father know.
+
+Whilst George was anxiously deliberating with himself--for neither of us
+boys were in a state to offer any suggestions--we looked up, and saw my
+father rapidly descending the hill-side.
+
+In another moment he stood in the midst of our little group, and had
+heard how it was with my cousin. "I feared so," he said, "when I saw you
+all standing together. Thank God, the child is still alive!"
+
+There was no longer any questioning of what was best to be done. My
+father was always able to decide things in a moment. "It would be too
+great a risk to carry him without any stretcher. We must take him round
+in the boat. How's the wind, George?"
+
+"Not favourable, sir; we must trust more to the oars."
+
+"Then you and Ralph must row. Willie, I think I can trust you, but
+remember a great deal may depend upon your carrying your message
+correctly. Run home as quickly as you can by the lower wood, it's quite
+safe that way; tell mamma that Aleck is hurt, and that Rickson must go
+off for Dr. Wilson in the dog-cart at once; if Dr. Wilson cannot be
+found, he must bring Mr. Bryant; and James must bring down the carriage
+to wait for us at the lodge. Don't frighten your mamma; tell her as
+quietly and gently as you can. If you meet Mr. Glengelly, tell him
+first, and he will break it to mamma. Do you quite understand?"
+
+"Yes, papa," I replied, thankful to have something given me to do, and
+yet feeling as if I were in the midst of a terrible waking dream. After
+my father had taken the precaution of once again repeating his
+directions, I sped off up the steep hill-side, by way of the lower wood,
+towards home, whilst he gently lifted up my cousin and carried him to
+the boat.
+
+I shall never forget that walk home--_walk_ I call it, though, wherever
+running was possible, I _ran_. The feeling of misery and terror that was
+upon me, seemed to be mocked by the gay twittering of the birds, and the
+dancing of the sunbeams through the leaves, and the familiar appearance
+of the laden blackberry bushes, and copses famous for rich returns in
+the nutting season. Everything in nature looking so undisturbed and
+unaffected by what was filling me with grief, appeared to add to my
+wretchedness. All the way along, I had the vision of my cousin's pale
+face before my eyes. True, he was not dead; but, child that I was, I had
+sufficient sense to know that often death followed an accident which
+was not immediately fatal, and _if_ he died it would be almost as though
+I had murdered him. I can remember trying hard to fancy it was a
+dreadful dream, and that I should wake up, as I had done on the
+preceding night, to find that my fears were all unreal; and as every
+step, bringing me nearer home, made this increasingly impossible to
+imagine, I changed the subject of my speculations, and took to
+remembering all the dreadful things I had ever read in history or
+story-books, of people dying of broken hearts, or living on and never
+smiling again, and fancying it was going to be the same with me; and I
+grew quite frightened, and trembled so much that I scarcely knew how to
+climb up the steep bits of the path.
+
+I was still about a quarter of a mile from the house when I met Mr.
+Glengelly, who was also on the search for Aleck. It was a wonderful
+relief to have some one to speak to after the long silence of the past
+hour, and to be cheered up by his assurance that a broken arm was no
+very formidable accident after all, and that a little severe pain, and a
+few weeks invalidism, sounded very alarming, but would in reality pass
+quickly by.
+
+"Then you think, perhaps Aleck won't die," I faltered, struggling to get
+breath, for the haste in which I had come had made speaking difficult.
+
+"Die!" echoed my tutor cheerily; "why, Willie, people don't die of a
+broken arm! I broke my arm when I was a little boy of twelve, and you
+see I'm alive still." I smiled faintly; it was so much better than
+anything I had expected to hear. "It's true," added the tutor, "that
+there may be more than the broken arm, but we must hope for the best. In
+the meantime, Willie, you have had enough running, you are quite out of
+breath, and had better come the rest of the way quietly; I will go on
+and carry out your father's directions."
+
+When I reached home every one seemed in a bustle, and too busy to take
+any notice of me. My mother indeed spared time to tell me I had been a
+good brave boy to come home so fast with the message, and that I had
+better go and sit quietly to rest in the school-room; but she hurried
+away immediately to finish her preparations, and I found she was getting
+the spare room next to her own ready for Aleck, instead of the little
+room next to mine.
+
+I had a lingering hope that Mr. Glengelly might appear in the
+school-room, but he had gone down with Bennet to the lodge to see if he
+could be of use when the boat came in, so that I was quite alone, and
+could only watch from the half-open door the doings of the servants as
+they passed to and fro, all seeming in a flutter, and as if it lay upon
+them as a duty to move about, and run hither and thither, without any
+particular object that I could discover.
+
+After about an hour, the sound of wheels on the drive announced the
+approach of the carriage. I sprang to my post of observation, and saw
+Aleck, still deathly pale, and unconscious, carried carefully in by my
+father and Mr. Glengelly, and my mother on the first landing of the
+stairs, looking terribly anxious but perfectly composed, beckoning them
+up, as she said to my father,--
+
+"Everything is ready, dear, in the room next to ours."
+
+Then they all went up-stairs, and I saw nothing more until, a few
+moments later, Mr. Glengelly looked in and told me I was to go to dinner
+by myself, as he was going to drive to Elmworth at once, and my parents
+could not come down-stairs.
+
+It seemed strange and forlorn to go into our large dining-room, and sit
+at the table all by myself, whilst James stood behind me and changed my
+plate, and handed me the dishes all in their proper order, as if I had
+been grown up. I was hungry, or rather, perhaps, stood in need of food,
+after the morning's exertions, but I felt quite surprised at my own
+utter indifference as to _what_ I had to eat, when I had the opportunity
+of an entirely free selection. I took my one help of tart, and a single
+peach, without the shadow of a desire such as is common to children, and
+which I should in happier times unquestionably have shared, to improve
+the occasion by a little extra allowance.
+
+I had scarcely finished when my mother came in for two or three minutes.
+
+"Mamma," I said, running eagerly to her, "do tell me, will Aleck die?"
+
+"My darling," she answered, "we cannot say how much he is hurt until the
+doctor comes;" and she stooped down to kiss away the tears that came to
+my eyes when I noticed the sad, quiet voice with which she spoke, so
+unlike Mr. Glengelly's cheerful, re-assuring manner. "You must pray to
+God, my child, that if it be His will he may recover, and try to cheer
+up, because there is still hope the injury may not prove very serious;
+we must hope for the best. I am going to bring papa up a glass of wine
+and a biscuit; will you carry up the plate for me?"
+
+Just as we were going up-stairs, she added, to comfort me,--
+
+"Willie, my child, how thankful I feel that you had nothing to do with
+the loss of the ship."
+
+At which, observation--from her point of view, consolatory; from mine,
+like a dagger-thrust--I became so convulsed with sobs, that my mother
+slipped into the room where Aleck was, laid down the plate and the
+wine-glass, and returning again, took me down to the school-room, and
+simply devoted herself for some minutes to soothing me back into
+composure. She rose to go, but I clung to her dress; "Mamma, mamma," I
+entreated, "don't leave me, please don't leave me."
+
+"I _must_ leave you, Willie," she answered, "and you must try to bear up
+bravely for my sake, and for Aleck's. You will do what you can to help
+in this sad time of trouble, and not add to my distress by giving way
+like this. You are over-tired, I think, and had better take a book, and
+stay here for the present, and lie down on the sofa and rest.
+Afterwards, if you like, you can go in the garden."
+
+I preferred remaining in the school-room; I could see the hall-door, and
+up the first flight of stairs, and could hear the opening and shutting
+of doors up-stairs, and occasional remarks from passers through the
+hall, so that I felt less lonely than I knew I should feel in the
+garden. Frisk came and sat with his fore-paws on my lap--he seemed aware
+that something had gone wrong--and wagged his tail, not merrily, but
+slowly and mournfully, as if to express, after his fashion, how truly he
+sympathized in our distress.
+
+At last, once again there was the sound of wheels; it was the dog-cart
+this time, and Frisk threw back his head, pricked up his ears, and,
+with a quick bark, darted off to sanction the arrival of the doctor with
+his presence.
+
+My father, too, was at the hall-door in an instant.
+
+"I am thankful to see you," he said, as the doctor sprung from the
+dog-cart; "you have heard the circumstances?"
+
+"I have," answered Dr. Wilson, following my father quickly up-stairs.
+"Is he still unconscious?"
+
+The answer was lost to me; but all at once, as I thought of Dr. Wilson,
+and how much depended upon his visit, the recollection of my mother's
+words came back to me, "We must pray God, Willie, if it be His will
+Aleck may get better;" and with a sudden impulse I jumped up, shut the
+door, and kneeling down, with my head pressed upon my hands, I prayed
+with a sort of intensity I had never known before: "O Lord, make Aleck
+well, do make Aleck well, don't let him die,"--repeating the words over
+and over again, and getting up with some dim sense of comfort in my
+mind, as I thought that God had the power as much now as when in our
+human nature He walked upon this world, to heal all that were ill; and
+had He not said, "Ask, and you shall receive?"
+
+Why was it that the verse which I had repeated that morning to my
+mother, after breakfast, came back so often to my mind? "_If I regard
+iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me._" Generally my mother
+explained my daily text, but this morning, owing to the anxiety about
+Aleck's disappearance, there had not been the usual time, and she had
+simply heard the verse, and sent me off, as before-mentioned, to the
+school-room. Now I took to explaining it for myself. What business had I
+to pray with that iniquity hidden in my heart, of which no one knew but
+God? How could I get forgiven? what was I to do?
+
+Conscience took courage and put in the suggestion, "Confess boldly to
+your parents the sin that is lying so heavily upon you." But then the
+thought that, if Aleck never got better, they would think me his
+murderer, took possession of me, and I took pains to convince myself,
+against my own reason, that after all, I had not actually been guilty
+of falsehood, since the real manner in which the ship had been lost was
+actually guessed by my father; that it would do no good if I were to
+give them the pain of knowing that I had allowed it to happen, having it
+in my power to prevent it; that, after all, it would be enough to
+confess to God and get forgiven.
+
+But the reasoning, though for a time it silenced the promptings of
+conscience, did not give me peace of mind; and a sense that I could not
+pray--that, at least, my prayers would do no good--took from me the only
+comfort that was worth thinking of.
+
+I was so taken up with these reflections, that I never heard steps upon
+the stairs, and started with an exclamation almost of fright when the
+door opened rather quickly, and my father and Dr. Wilson came in.
+
+"Why, Willie, there's nothing to be frightened at," exclaimed my father.
+"Here's Dr. Wilson come to cheer us up about Aleck, who is to get quite
+well by-and-by, we hope."
+
+"Yes, yes, little man," said Dr. Wilson, kindly chucking me under the
+chin, after a fashion which I have noticed prevails amongst grown-up
+tall people who are amiably disposed towards children; "we shall soon
+hope to bring him round again. With all your monkey-like ways of
+climbing about the rocks, my only wonder is I've not had you for a
+patient long ago!"
+
+Something seemed to strike him in the face he was holding up by the
+chin, and releasing me from a quick glance of inspection, he asked
+presently whether I had seen Aleck, and listened to the account I had to
+give of how Ralph had first noticed him lying at the foot of the rock.
+
+Then he and my father stepped out by the window, and walked up and down
+on the lawn; and I heard Dr. Wilson say to my father, "Any one can see
+the boy has had a shock; take care he does not get frightened."
+
+From the fragments of conversation which reached me,--sitting as I did
+in the open window, whilst they passed by, walking up and down on the
+lawn outside,--I gathered that they were discussing the possibility of
+communication with Uncle and Aunt Gordon; and as they came in again
+through the school-room, my father said, "You are sure that the crisis
+will be over by that time?"
+
+"Quite sure. There is nothing for it now but perfect quiet, the
+administration of the medicines and cordials I have prescribed, when
+possible, and close watch of all the symptoms. I can assure you I am not
+without hope. You may look for me again by ten o'clock."
+
+And so saying, Dr. Wilson drove rapidly off, and my father went back
+again to Aleck's room. I think it must have been his planning, that
+nurse soon afterwards came down to the school-room and bestowed her
+company upon me for quite a long time, entertaining me at first, or
+meaning to entertain me, by a wearisome narration about a little boy who
+lived nowhere in particular a long time ago; but she wakened up all my
+interest when at last, unable to keep off the subject as she had
+intended, she gave me a detailed account of my cousin having been put
+into the bed in the spare room; and how he had lain so still, she could
+scarcely believe her senses he was not dead; and how, when Dr. Wilson
+set his arm, the pain of the operation seemed to waken him up for a
+moment from the stupor, but he had gone back again almost immediately.
+"The doctor said," she added, "that it was the injury to the head that
+was of the greatest consequence--the arm was nothing to signify, a mere
+simple fracture; as if a broken arm were a mere nothing. I should like
+to know whether, _if his own_ were broken, he would call it a simple
+fracture, and say it didn't signify!" And nurse looked righteously
+indignant, and as if she would be rather glad than otherwise for Dr.
+Wilson to meet with an accident, and learn, by personal experience, the
+true measure of insignificance or importance attaching to a broken limb.
+Remembering, however, at this point, the inconvenience which might
+result to ourselves from such a catastrophe, she retreated from the
+position, and took to speculating what the doctor's views were likely to
+be with reference to his night accommodation; whether he would go
+"between sheets," or merely lie down on the sofa, and what motives might
+be likely to influence him towards either decision; reasoning it all out
+to me as if I had been grown-up.
+
+In fact, one of the peculiar sensations which are stamped upon every
+recollection of that long sad day, was that of being treated as though I
+were a "person," and not a child, by almost every member of the
+community; a sensation bringing with it a dim sense of glory--that might
+have been--but which my guilty position kept me back from enjoying.
+
+Both my parents came down to a sort of dinner-tea, which we had together
+at about seven o'clock, and my mother stayed a little while with me
+afterwards, and then sent me off, rather earlier than usual, to bed,
+upon the plea of my being weary with the long, anxious day.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+SORROWFUL DAYS.
+
+
+To bed; but not to my usual peaceful sleep; for all the night through
+one terrible dream seemed to succeed the other, until, in the act of
+landing at the White-Rock Cove, and calling for help, I woke at last to
+find myself standing somewhere in the dark, I could not at first make
+out where, though it turned out to be in Aleck's room, to which I had
+made my way in my sleep.
+
+I began to cry with fright, and my father came running up to see what
+was the matter. He was quite dressed, and brought a candle with him, and
+looked so natural and real that he chased away all spectral frights.
+After he had put me back to bed, and sat with me a little, I fell into a
+quieter sleep than I had had before; and slept on, indeed, quite late,
+for nobody called me the next morning, and I did not come down until
+prayers were over, and breakfast just about to commence.
+
+Only my father and Dr. Wilson were in the room. My father looked very
+anxious; but Dr. Wilson spoke to me cheerily enough.
+
+"So this is the young gentleman," he said, drawing me towards him, "that
+is not content to walk by day, but must needs walk by night also!" and
+he looked straight at me, as if he could read me through and through;
+whilst I, knowing the dreadful story hidden in my heart, felt quite
+alarmed lest he might read _that_ there; and I could feel the beatings
+of my heart, as if a steam-engine were at work, as I tried not to meet
+the glance of those keen, piercing eyes.
+
+He released me after a moment, and presently afterwards said to my
+father,--
+
+"Close your lesson-books for a while; the boat and the saddle will be
+the best lesson-books, or you may have more trouble than you think of."
+
+I felt sure what he said had something to do with me, and wondered what
+he meant,--finding the explanation in Mr. Glengelly's strange
+indisposition to give me anything but a drawing-lesson that morning, and
+taking me off for a long ride before dinner, contrary to all established
+customs.
+
+Aleck grew no better all through the day, and the next night he was
+worse.
+
+On Saturday morning, two other doctors came to consult with Dr. Wilson;
+and I could read in the grave faces around me that the worst was
+apprehended. But I saw scarcely anything of my father or mother, or even
+nurse, so that all tidings from the sick-room came through remote
+channels--servants who had taken something up to the room, or Mr.
+Glengelly, who had seen one of the doctors for a moment, and whom I
+suspected of keeping back the full gravity of the verdict.
+
+If I could only have seen my father or mother alone quietly, without
+their being in a hurry, I thought I should have told them everything;
+but no opportunity presented itself, and another weary day wore by
+without any unburdening of my conscience, or relief to my gloomy
+anticipations.
+
+Sunday morning! Such a happy day generally! for my parents contrived to
+make it really, and not nominally, the best of all the seven; but now,
+how dreary was the awakening to a Sunday which I expected to be only the
+melancholy repetition of the preceding days, if not far sadder!
+
+The weather had turned chilly, and the servants, to make things look a
+little brighter, made this the excuse for a fire in the dining-room, by
+which I crouched down on the rug, after breakfast, with a Sunday
+story-book in my hand, wondering whether I should go to church, or what
+would happen in a state of things so different from what was usual; and
+why it was I was told I need not prepare my repetition lesson from the
+Bible, according to custom. By-and-by my father came in and told me to
+get ready to go with him to church; he thought he might safely leave
+Aleck for a little while, and would like to have me walk with him.
+
+We had not far to go, for the church stood but a quarter of a mile from
+our house, and there was a direct pathway to it through the woods. I
+thought perhaps I should muster courage to open my heart to my father as
+we went along. But first we met one person and then another, anxious to
+know the last report from the sick-room, so that we had no time alone,
+and I had to reserve my confession until we should come home after
+church. Aleck was to be prayed for in church, my father told me; and he
+added that I was to think of Uncle and Aunt Gordon too, in the Litany,
+for it would be a sore trouble to them to have been away from their only
+child in such a time as this. And then he spoke to me of childish fears
+about death, and said that, for those who were safe in Jesus, death was
+a friend, and not an enemy; and that I must pray that, if it pleased God
+Aleck should never get well, he might go to the beautiful home prepared
+for all the children of God: and the firm grasp of my father's hand, and
+his clear, unhesitating voice, conveyed to my timorous, troubled heart,
+a sort of belief in a calm, sheltered haven, that might succeed in time
+to the outside tossings on stormy waters, and I felt comforted, though I
+scarcely knew how.
+
+Mr. Morton, our clergyman, was away for a month's holidays, and it was a
+stranger who performed the service. When I heard the prayers of the
+congregation requested for "Alexander Ringwall Gordon, who was
+dangerously ill," it seemed almost more than I could bear, the long
+formal enunciation of his name sounding so terribly like a
+death-warrant.
+
+If ever I tried to _pray_ the Church prayers, and not merely say them,
+it was that morning; and it seemed to me quite wonderful how much of
+them agreed with my own feelings, how many things there were in the
+service that were exactly what I wanted. Hitherto the singing had
+appeared the only attractive portion of divine worship; but now that,
+for the first time in my life, I knew what it was to have a really
+sin-burdened conscience, the sweetest music seemed as nothing in
+comparison with the assurance that a broken and contrite spirit would
+not be despised of God, or to the comfort of ranking myself unreservedly
+amongst the miserable sinners in the Litany--concerning whom I had
+hitherto only wondered, Were they so miserable after all?--and pleading
+alike with voice and heart for God's mercy, of which I felt myself to
+stand so sorely in need.
+
+The Commandments were being read when the little door leading into our
+large family-pew was opened, and Rickson softly came in and whispered to
+my father, who in his turn leant over and whispered to me. A message had
+come from the house, he said, and he must go back at once; he knew I
+could be trusted to stay by myself and walk home afterwards. He and
+Rickson quietly slipped out, and I was left sole tenant of the large
+square pew, with its high partition, and ponderous chairs, and
+fire-place, and table, just like a small room, as is the custom in
+old-fashioned churches.
+
+Very lonely indeed I felt, as I stood up by myself, and tried to join in
+the hymn, and wished that I were not so small or the pew not so lofty;
+it seemed so strange to be joining in singing with people of whom no
+single individual could be seen--it had never struck me before, with my
+own dear parents always at my side. Presently the clerk appeared opening
+the door of the pulpit--that at all events I could see--to the strange
+clergyman, who seemed to me to look with a searching glance of inquiry
+straight down into my solitary domain, as if he meant to call me to
+account for being there all alone.
+
+Having nobody to look at as an example, I sat myself timidly upon a
+corner of one of the chairs after the hymn was over, and then, suddenly
+remembering I had made a mistake, knelt down with the colour mounting to
+the very roots of my hair, and a terrible sense of the congregation all
+looking at me and taking notes of my behaviour.
+
+We smile at our childish embarrassments as we look back upon them, but
+they are very serious and real troubles whilst they last.
+
+When I rose from my knees, I was far too shy to place myself
+comfortably, but sat, as before, upon a little corner of a chair, and
+hoped the congregation wouldn't take any notice, whilst mentally I
+prepared myself for unrestrained meditation on the all-engrossing
+subject of my thoughts, in place of the many speculations with which I
+was wont to beguile sermon-time in general.
+
+For here I must pause to observe that Mr. Morton's sermons were usually
+entirely beyond my childish understanding, and attention to them on my
+part was practically in vain; so that after learning the text by heart,
+which I was always expected to repeat perfectly afterwards, I used to
+spend a great part of the time remaining to me in a minute survey of all
+objects falling within the limited range of my observation, including
+especially the monumental tablets, of which there were many on the
+church walls; those on the right being for the most part to the memory
+of the Grants of Braycombe; those on the left to the successive rectors
+of Braycombe parish, who had lived and died after what seemed to me
+boundless periods of ministry amongst their attached flock.
+
+Two of these tablets in particular had supplied much food for
+consideration in my early days.--I used to look back upon early days
+even at ten years old with a sort of affectionate patronage.--These
+tablets exactly corresponded with each other in size and position, and
+were both beyond the range of complete legibility, only words in
+capitals coming out distinctly. But these very words in capitals were
+the cause of my anxious meditations. For on the one hand I read the name
+of the "Rev. Joseph Brocklehurst, Rector," with, a line or two further
+down, "Mary, wife of the _above_;" whilst on the other, which was to the
+memory of my grandfather, my own name at full length, "William Preston
+Grant," was underneath the only other word I could distinguish, and that
+word was "_Below._" Many a Sunday did I ruminate upon the unpleasant
+contrast which, to my mind, was suggested by the two prepositions
+between the present condition of the Rev. Joseph Brocklehurst and that
+of my grandfather; and it was not without some hesitation that I
+revealed my perplexity to my father at last, by the abrupt inquiry, one
+day on our way home from church, whether my grandfather had been a
+_very_ wicked man. Greatly surprised were both my parents at this
+unlooked-for question, and I believe not a little amused at the train of
+reasoning which had led me to it; but they took an early opportunity of
+taking me into the church, not on a Sunday, and permitting me to go near
+to the tablets, pointing out the connecting words which were not
+legible, and which supplied a full explanation of all that I wanted to
+know, and showing me that the _below_ referred to the position of the
+family vault under the church, and the _above_ to the relative position
+of the Rev. J. Brocklehurst's name to that of his wife.
+
+Often after that explanation I thought, as I looked at the tablets, of
+the words my father said to me at the time: "Willie, there are many
+things in God's dealings with his children that are hard to understand
+_here_; by-and-by, when we see things nearer, in the light of eternity,
+we shall find out that our difficulty has just been because here we see
+in part--as you did the inscriptions--but _then_ we shall see face to
+face, and know even as we are known."
+
+There was another monumental tablet about which I thought a great deal,
+which preached to me a silent sermon as often as I looked at it. Under
+the name and date of birth and death of the person it commemorated were
+the words, "_Prepare to meet thy God._" I spent a long time looking for
+them in my Bible, and thought a great deal about the verse when I had
+found it; wondering whether the young midshipman, son of one of the
+rectors, upon whose monument it had been engraved, had thought about
+them too, or whether it was a sort of warning because he had _not_
+prepared. It was upon this latter train of thought, with reflections
+concerning Aleck and myself woven into it--_I_ clearly not prepared, and
+wondering whether Aleck was prepared--that I found myself starting as I
+settled shyly upon my little corner of the chair, and looked timidly for
+my Bible in order to find the text.
+
+What was my surprise when Psalm lxvi. 18 was given out, and the
+well-known words, so often repeated to myself, were repeated slowly and
+impressively by the stranger clergyman from the pulpit--"If I regard
+iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me."
+
+It seemed to me so wonderful and so strange that he should have fixed
+upon the very passage that I had thought of so often within the previous
+two days, that at first I almost fancied I was dreaming. But I felt
+still more surprised when, after anxiously attending to what was said
+for a few minutes, I found the sermon was as easy to understand as my
+mother's conversation after a Bible reading: all inattention was gone,
+and for the first time in my life I was listening with interest deep
+and anxious, whilst the clergyman, in simple language, explained the
+text so clearly that not one in the church need have gone away
+uninstructed.
+
+_The_ great question that I wanted to hear answered was, Whether, in my
+circumstances, with an unconfessed sin lying heavily on my heart, it was
+of any use for me to pray to God for Aleck?--what was the exact meaning
+of _regarding iniquity_ in my heart?
+
+The very first words of the sermon landed us in the midst of the
+question. "Unforgiven sin," said the clergyman, "is a barrier between
+our souls and our God." And presently afterwards he referred us to
+Isaiah lix. 2: "Your iniquities have separated between you and your God,
+and your sins have hid his face from you that he will not hear;" and to
+a long passage in the 1st chapter of Isaiah, finishing with the words,
+"When ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of
+blood." Then he spoke to the congregation of the many Sundays during
+which they had come together to worship, whilst in the case of many of
+them their lives were unsanctified, their religion for one day in seven
+only, not for the whole week;--they loved their sins and would not give
+them up on any account, hoping to square their account with God by an
+outward attendance on Divine worship. It was all put in very simple
+language; and we were told to look back into one week of our lives to
+find out whether we were _fighting against_ sin as an enemy, or
+_cherishing_ sin as a friend: and if living in sin, as servants of
+Satan, we had the solemn truth to lay home to our consciences that our
+prayers never reached heaven; the promise, true for the children of God,
+that he would hear and answer prayer, was not true for those who were
+the servants or slaves of sin.
+
+Then there was an appeal to those who felt conscious of sin and wished
+for forgiveness, and I felt I belonged to that class, and listened with
+increasing eagerness. Was it for them to say, "I must then reform my
+ways and make myself better before I can go to Christ for pardon?" Oh,
+no! The prayer of the publican, "God be merciful to me a sinner," was
+heard and answered. Christ's invitation was addressed to the weary and
+_heavy laden_, "Come unto _Me_." He died to take our punishment instead
+of us; and those who, instead of cherishing sin, felt it a burden too
+heavy for them to bear, were to bring it and lay it down at the foot of
+the cross, and find rest to their souls.
+
+There followed a few words about sins _forgiven_ being sins _forsaken_.
+Any person who had been in the habit of dishonest dealing would adopt
+habits of rectitude, and would make restitution when possible. Those who
+had uttered falsehoods would no longer persist in untruthfulness, but
+would speak the whole truth, even if to their own cost. And all this
+would be because Christ _had_ forgiven them, and not in order to _obtain
+forgiveness_. I do not remember the rest of the sermon, but just at the
+end there was a beautiful piece about the happiness of finding the great
+barrier gone:--Just as when a little child, conscious of some wrong
+action, feels ashamed to meet the eyes of its loving parents, and is
+conscious of a separation that casts a dark shadow over all the usual
+home happiness, at last, with repenting heart and quivering voice,
+whispers in the loving ears of father or mother the secret trouble that
+lies heavily upon the sin-burdened conscience, and in the tender embrace
+of forgiveness finds pardon and peace: so with the sinner who has found
+peace at the foot of the cross; the barrier of separation is no more;
+the way into the holiest is made manifest by the blood of the Atonement;
+and the promise is written in letters of gold, "_If ye abide in me, and
+my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will and it shall be done
+unto you._"
+
+Before I left the church, and took my solitary walk home through the
+wood, I had made up my mind to confess all to my parents at the very
+earliest opportunity; and with this determination there was already a
+sense of relief.
+
+But the opportunity did not occur so soon as I had expected; for I found
+a solitary dinner awaiting me, and the whole of that long afternoon,
+except for the servants, who brought a message once or twice from the
+sick-room to the effect that my parents dared not leave even for a
+minute, I was quite alone, either sitting on the hearth-rug by the fire,
+or standing at the door listening for any footstep on the passage
+up-stairs, or even the opening or shutting of doors.
+
+At last, at about five o'clock, I heard my father coming softly
+down-stairs, and sprang to meet him. "Papa, papa, tell me, is Aleck
+better?"
+
+"I fear not, my child," answered my father gently. "I think, Willie,
+that God is going to take him to Himself. But he is conscious just now,
+and wants to see you. He has asked that he may wish you good-bye. You
+must be very quiet indeed, and speak very gently."
+
+I felt the tears coming hot and fast, and there was a terrible choking
+in my throat; but it was impossible to hold out one moment longer, and,
+struggling through my sobs, I gasped out, "Oh, papa, I have killed
+him!--it's all my fault!--oh! what shall I do?" and I clung,
+terror-stricken, to the hand which he had placed on my shoulder.
+
+My father sat down, and tried to soothe me, putting his arm around me,
+and saying kind, comforting words, evidently at a loss to understand the
+purport of my broken utterances, whilst I tried, and tried in vain, to
+control my sobs, and regain sufficient composure to explain.
+
+At last he said firmly,--
+
+"This agitation would do Aleck grievous harm; I must not take you to him
+until you are quite calm, Willie, and yet the moments are precious: keep
+what you have to say until another time, and try to stop crying; I shall
+have to go up-stairs without you, unless you can be ready soon."
+
+Then he gave me a glass of water, and still telling me not to speak,
+waited until I had mastered my emotion and was tolerably calm, then led
+me by the hand up to Aleck's room.
+
+"Wish me good-bye," I said over and over to myself. Such a long
+good-bye, how could I bear it!
+
+There was no one else in the room at the moment but my mother, who sat
+at the foot of the bed with something in her hand for Aleck. It was not
+until I had advanced nearly to the bed that, with tear-blinded eyes, I
+could distinguish my cousin's face. It was so deadly pale that I started
+at the sight; but though pale and wan he was perfectly conscious, and
+as I drew near he whispered softly,--
+
+"I'm so glad you've come, Willie--I wanted to see you, and wish you
+good-bye." There was a pause, and then more faintly he continued,--"I
+want to be quite sure you've forgiven me, Willie;--Jesus has; I've asked
+him."
+
+I bent forward and kissed the white face that lay so quiet and still,
+struggling to keep down my sobs, though I felt as if my heart would
+break, and longing to be able to say but one word, that Aleck might know
+it was I who asked his forgiveness, but longing in vain.
+
+"You forgive me quite, Willie," murmured Aleck again.
+
+[Illustration: WILLIE AT ALECK'S BED SIDE.]
+
+But at the first attempt to speak, I broke down utterly, with such a
+burst of pent-up grief, that to control it was impossible, and I was
+hurried quickly out of the room, lest my emotion should be injurious to
+Aleck; my mother herself almost carrying me down-stairs, and sorely
+divided between the desire to stay and comfort me, and at the same time
+to remain at her post up-stairs with my cousin.
+
+For a few minutes, however, she remained with her arm around me, and my
+head resting on her shoulder; and when, by degrees, I grew a little more
+calm, though it cost a fearful effort, I contrived to sob out my
+confession, and let her know how wicked I had been, and also how
+miserable. I could see it was a terrible shock to her when she grasped
+my meaning, and she did not attempt to disguise the pain it cost her.
+For the first time in my life I saw my mother shed tears. But the
+knowledge of my guilt seemed to add to her pity for me.
+
+"My poor little Willie," she said; "you have indeed had a terrible load
+upon your heart; your punishment has come more quickly upon you and more
+heavily than sometimes happens: but remember there is One whose blood
+cleanses from all sin--the heavenly Father's ear is open to you, Willie,
+through Jesus, and you must get forgiveness where those who really seek
+it are never turned away."
+
+"I wanted to tell Aleck, mamma, too; but I couldn't."
+
+"There is no need to trouble Aleck about that now," said my mother
+sorrowfully: "the ship seems a little thing to him now, Willie; his
+thoughts are on the great things of eternity. It might agitate him, and
+it would not make him happier to know about it; but if you like I will
+tell him that you love him dearly, and are very sorry for everything you
+have ever done that may not have been kind."
+
+Even this message, vague as it was, seemed better than none, and I
+thankfully endorsed it.
+
+"But oh, mamma," I added, "do tell me that you think it just possible he
+may get well again. I think it will kill me if he does not."
+
+"He is in God's hands, Willie," answered my mother, "and with God all
+things are possible; but I fear there is little hope of his getting any
+better. Dr. Wilson does not say there is _no_ hope, but the other
+doctors quite gave him up. I do not hide it from you, my child, because
+it is easier to know the worst than to be in doubt and suspense; and God
+will help you--help us all--to bear it."
+
+There were tears in my mother's eyes and a tremble in her voice as she
+said this, and as it rushed upon me all at once how greatly it must add
+to her trouble to know that I was the cause of it, my own grief seemed
+rekindled. She gently unclasped my hands, which were tightly locked
+around her.
+
+"I must leave you now, my poor child," she said; "I cannot stay a minute
+longer away from Aleck;" and stooping down, she kissed me in spite of my
+wickedness, and went away up-stairs; whilst I, throwing myself upon the
+sofa, buried my head in my hands, and wept until, from sheer exhaustion,
+I seemed to grow quiet at last, whilst the day-light faded away, and the
+faint flickering of the fire-light produced mysterious shadows on the
+ceiling, and made the things in the room assume to my fevered
+imagination weird and fanciful shapes.
+
+But there was a species of dim comfort in watching the fire; and a
+comfort, too, in spite of my misery, in the recollection that I had
+confessed my sin--that it was no longer a dread secret in my own sole
+keeping, but was shared by the strong, tender hearts, of my parents: and
+it seemed to come soothingly to my mind that now the barrier of sin
+might be taken away, and my heart rose once again in earnest prayer to
+God for forgiveness. Then I began to think about the great things of
+eternity my mother had spoken of; and of the meeting-time for those who
+were parted on earth, of Aleck, and of Old George, and his son--Ralph's
+father; and of what Groves said about the open book; and then came the
+recollection of the sea-stained little Testament, and the quaint verse
+at its beginning, and the young sailor's profession of faith, "Father,
+He died for me, I must live for Him." My mind travelled from one thought
+to another, whilst ever and anon a struggling sob for breath seemed like
+the subsiding of a tempest. Shaping themselves into more or less
+definite plans, came thoughts, too, of the future before me in this
+world:--I should never be quite happy any more, I thought; but I would
+try to keep on, like Ralph's father, living for Christ in some way, and
+grow up to be very good--perhaps I should be a missionary--I was not
+quite sure on the whole what sphere of life would be the most trying or
+praiseworthy--and then at last Aleck and I would meet in heaven. This I
+believe to have been the last point of conscious reflection, for more
+and more vague and desultory became my thoughts afterwards. Nature would
+have her revenge for all the restlessness and anxiety of the past few
+days. I fell into a profound sleep.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+SUNDAY EVENING.
+
+
+Where I was, why I was where I was, and what time of the day or night it
+might happen to be--were questions which presented themselves to my mind
+in hazy succession, as, roused from my slumbers by the hum of voices, I
+woke slowly to the consciousness that, though I had been asleep, I was
+not in bed. It was only by a very gradual process of recollection that
+the past came back upon me almost like a fresh story, and I was at least
+a minute rubbing my eyes, and collecting my thoughts, before I took in
+all the familiar objects in the room, from the sofa on which I found
+myself reposing, to the fire-place at which, with their backs turned to
+me, my father and Dr. Wilson were in close conversation. My father's
+voice was low and serious, and at the moment when, having finished the
+process of awakening, I was going to speak, his words came slowly and
+distinctly to my ears, and sank down into my heart:--
+
+"The thought of his parents' grief on hearing of the death--such a
+death, too!--of their only child, has been almost more than I could
+bear."
+
+Aleck was dead!--there was no hope left! I thought; and with a piteous
+exclamation of grief, I turned round and hid my face in my hands,
+leaning up against the sofa.
+
+In another moment my father was at my side. I felt his arm encircling me
+as he drew me towards him, and bending down, whispered softly,--
+
+"It is no time for grief now, Willie; I was speaking of what _might_
+have been; let us give God thanks, for the danger is over--Aleck is
+spared to us."
+
+I slowly drew back my hands from my face. The relief was so great I
+could scarcely believe in it; and I must have appeared--as I certainly
+felt--utterly bewildered, whilst I tried to find words, and only at last
+succeeded in repeating my father's mechanically:
+
+"The danger is over--Aleck is spared to us."
+
+"To be sure he is," said Dr. Wilson, in his cheeriest tones. He had got
+up from his chair, and was standing with his back to the fire looking at
+us. "Yes, he'll be quite well again by-and-by; and all the more prudent,
+we'll hope, for the trouble he's been putting us in during these last
+few days. He's had a lesson that ought to last for some time to come;
+but boys never learn their lessons, do what one will to make them."
+
+There was a moment's pause after this discouraging general statement
+with reference to boys; and then the doctor added, as if thinking to
+himself, in quite a different tone:
+
+"Poor boy! poor boy! it's been a very near thing. By the help of God,
+we've brought him through. May it be a life worth the saving--a life
+given back to God!"
+
+"Amen!" ejaculated my father, earnestly; and then, at his suggestion, we
+knelt together, and, in a few heartfelt words, he offered thanks to the
+heavenly Father for his goodness to us, and turned kind Dr. Wilson's
+aspiration into a prayer, that the life given back to my cousin might
+be by him given back to God.
+
+I knew, as I knelt there by my father's side, for the first time in my
+life, the feeling of a deep and speechless thankfulness, for which all
+words would be too poor.
+
+It was very late--past ten o'clock--but I was not allowed to go up to
+bed at once. Supper was ready, my father said, and I should come into
+the dining-room, and have it with him and Dr. Wilson. Accordingly, in
+spite of all remonstrances of nurse, who put in her appearance, and
+thought fit to reflect upon the utter impropriety of such late hours, I
+went to supper; and felt, moreover, greatly refreshed and strengthened
+by it, sitting there close by my father's side, and rejoicing every
+moment of the time in the feeling as of a great deliverance.
+
+So it came to pass that my second night did not begin until eleven
+o'clock.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+THE WHITE-ROCK COVE AGAIN.
+
+
+Aleck was a long time getting well. He had to be nursed and taken care
+of all through that winter, only gradually making little steps towards
+recovery.
+
+It was quite a festival when he was first carried down-stairs; and then
+again when he was taken out in the carriage for a drive, lying at full
+length upon a sort of couch which we erected for him, and to which he
+declared, in my anxiety to make him comfortable, I had contributed all
+the sofa cushions in the house.
+
+The subject of the lost ship was forbidden for a long while; and I grew
+to thinking of it as a sort of formidable undertaking, though one upon
+which I was firmly bent--the confession to Aleck himself of my guilt in
+the matter.
+
+But when at last I was permitted to approach the subject, I could only
+feel surprised that I had been for so long afraid of it. Aleck received
+my confession so quietly, instead of getting angry, and spoke so kindly
+and gently, that I could scarcely believe it was the same Aleck whose
+look of fiery indignation on that eventful morning of the 20th of
+September had so startled me.
+
+In one way, indeed, he was _not_ the same; for the accident, and illness
+consequent on it, seemed in some peculiar manner to have rendered him
+far more lovable and thoughtful than he had been formerly; a trifle
+graver, perhaps--at least I thought so, until, when he grew quite strong
+again, his merry laugh would ring out as cheerily as ever--and more
+serious in his way of looking at things, but not less happy. That I was
+sure of; for all through the long weeks of confinement there was not a
+brighter place in the house than the place at the side of his couch--he
+was so uniformly cheerful, and seemed so thoroughly to enjoy every
+little plan that we were able to form for his amusement.
+
+I told him I was quite surprised that he received my confession so
+gently; it would have been so natural if he had got angry. I remember
+his answer very well:--
+
+"Why, you see, Willie, it seems quite a little thing to me now. I don't
+think I can exactly put what I mean into words; but you know when I
+thought I was dying, and eternity seemed quite near, everything else
+seemed so little--only, the wrong words I had used to you seemed much
+worse than I had thought they could. Old George's words came back to me
+so often, about the loss of the ship being a very little thing; whilst
+wrong words and angry feelings would appear more terrible than we ever
+fancied possible. I was dreadfully frightened until I felt quite sure I
+was forgiven. You can't think how glad I was when I got your message."
+
+"I wanted to tell you," I said, "when I came into your room that time;
+but I couldn't speak, though I nearly choked in trying to stop crying."
+
+"Well since then," resumed Aleck, "the feeling doesn't seem to have gone
+off. I don't mean I don't care for things, because you know I like
+everything very much--our games, and the books, and madrepores; but I
+feel as if before my accident God and heaven and the Bible were all
+being put by, and got ready, for the time when one was old and grown up,
+and I've felt so different since then. It was when I felt so frightened
+at the thought of what a naughty boy I was, and of all the bad things I
+had done, and began to tell Jesus about it--in my heart, you know, for I
+couldn't speak--and remembered he was so good and kind he never turned
+any one away, and so felt sure he had heard me, that I began to think so
+differently."
+
+At this point of Aleck's narration I broke in impetuously with--
+
+"Oh, Aleck! for _you_ to be feeling like that--you, who had only felt
+angry--what would you have done if you had been me?" And then I
+proceeded, with feelings of unconcealed horror, to tell him of my misery
+during the few days succeeding the loss of the boat; the terrible walk
+home that morning; the lonely terrors of the nights; and my feelings at
+church with that verse always sounding in my ears, "If I regard iniquity
+in my heart, the Lord will not hear me."
+
+Before I had finished my story Aleck had got hold of one of my hands,
+and was stroking it as if he had been a girl. "You see," I said, "I was
+feeling rather like you, only I couldn't know I was forgiven, with that
+dreadful sin that no one knew of."
+
+"We had both done wrong," Aleck replied; "it doesn't much signify which
+of us was worst. Willie, do you know I want us always to do something
+together that we haven't done before."
+
+"What is it?" I inquired.
+
+"I should like us to read a little bit of the Bible together every day,
+quite for our own selves; not like a lesson, you know, nor even having
+auntie to explain it to us, but just for our own selves, like when I
+have one of papa's or mamma's letters to read. I think it would help us
+to remember the really great things better, like auntie's text in my
+room."
+
+I need scarcely say that the habit--afterwards continued, whenever
+practicable, through our school-life--was at once begun. In fact,
+Aleck's merest wish was a law to me; for all through the winter months
+every opportunity of rendering him any service was hailed with delight.
+I could never forget that his weakness and suffering were the result of
+my wicked behaviour, and could only comfort myself by doing all that in
+me lay to make his confinement as little wearisome as possible. Knowing
+his active, restless nature, I could fully appreciate what the trial
+must be, even with every alleviation, and often wondered he was able to
+bear it so cheerfully.
+
+But when I ventured to express to my cousin these speculations of mine,
+he would laugh them off merrily.
+
+"Why, Willie, how can I help being thankful and happy? Not to speak of
+uncle and aunt, who seem to be doing something for me every hour of the
+day; nor of old George, who toils up every morning to see me, though he
+used to tell me that it made his old bones ache--a fact he will never
+allow now; nor of Frisk, who sits upon my feet for hours, on purpose to
+keep them warm; I should like to know how I could help being cheerful,
+with your own dear old self giving up the greater part of your play-time
+to chess, or carpentry, or madrepores, and spending every penny of your
+pocket-money--No; it's of no use your stopping me to deny it. I've
+counted up, and you've spent every penny of your pocket-money--just as I
+was saying--in buying books, or tools, or things for me; waiting upon
+me, too, as if I were a prince and you my slave. Why, I'm perfectly
+afraid of admiring anything you have, lest I should find it done up in a
+parcel, and sent to me, like the illustrated copy of 'Robinson Crusoe'
+the other day!"
+
+In this sort of grateful spirit, making much of all my little trifling
+acts of kindness, Aleck scarcely allowed us to feel that he was
+under-going any deprivation during the months that he lay on the sofa.
+
+Once only I remember noticing a little cloud, that vanished again almost
+as soon as it appeared. One morning, after lessons were over, I came
+running into the study with my Latin exercise.
+
+"Papa, Mr. Glengelly was so pleased with my exercise, he has sent me in
+to show it to you."
+
+My father looked over it, reading little bits aloud, and finding with
+surprise that, difficult though it was, there were no mistakes. From my
+father's table I flew to the sofa on which Aleck was lying, with Frisk
+at his feet as usual, the open copy-book in my hand. But in an instant I
+could see there was some trouble in my cousin's face.
+
+"Aleck, dear Aleck," I whispered anxiously, "what is it? Have I done
+anything?"
+
+"No--nothing at all," replied my cousin with a great effort, and hastily
+brushing away his tears. "Let me have a look at it too. I'm ashamed of
+myself, Willie. I believe I was making myself unhappy at thinking that I
+shall just have gone back as much as you've gone forward. I didn't know
+I cared so much for being first in my lessons."
+
+After that I avoided ever talking of my lessons when Aleck was in the
+room; but he noticed this, and insisted on introducing the subject,
+speaking often to Mr. Glengelly about my progress, and looking over my
+exercises from time to time, whilst he would playfully remark that "we
+should be about equal when he was allowed to begin lessons again, and
+better companions than ever before."
+
+Sometimes he wondered at my getting on so much faster than formerly, not
+knowing the spirit of resolve and determination that had grown out of
+all the sad time of trouble, when I had found out for the first time
+what a poor sinful child I was, and had learned to seek and find for
+myself the sure Refuge and Strength--not for times of trouble only, but
+for the whole of life's journey.
+
+From the circumstance of my play-time being in great part spent with my
+cousin, at least such part of it as was not taken up in rides or drives
+with my parents, it came to pass that my visits to the Cove were far
+less frequent than they had been at any previous time. But though old
+George growled and grumbled at seeing so little of me, he always
+encouraged me not to desert my cousin.
+
+Now and then, however, I found my way down the Zig-zag to the lodge, and
+it was upon one of these occasions that I unburdened my mind to my old
+friend of a desire, which grew and strengthened upon me, in some way to
+provide for Aleck a boat which should be quite equal to the one he had
+lost. I knew it was worth a great deal more than I should be able to
+save in pocket-money, and a vague idea of the possibility of bartering
+some of my possessions had been dismissed as impracticable.
+
+To part with the "Fair Alice" without old George's sanction would not be
+right, but if he would make no objection, it seemed to me that this
+would be on the whole the easiest mode of reparation, and I took him
+into consultation on the subject accordingly.
+
+"I know it's your present to me, George," I said, feeling sadly alive to
+the delicacy of the request; "but if you'll give me leave, I think it's
+the only thing I have that would do to give Aleck. I can't think of any
+other way. I know it took you a tremendous time to make, and I care for
+it more than for anything. But I would rather give it to Aleck."
+
+Old George chuckled rather provokingly, and seemed to be taken up with
+some abstruse calculation. "Well, I won't be against it, Master Aleck,"
+he said, "unless--no--I'm not sure--" (the old man seemed to grow quite
+composed in his uncertainty), "I think--I may show you." And so saying
+he led the way into the work-shop.
+
+I started with surprise--another little schooner-yacht was in course of
+construction, precisely similar to the one that had been lost.
+
+"O George, how kind!"
+
+"No; it's not a bit kind," responded George, "for I'm being paid for it.
+I meant to have done it without, but your papa, sir, has insisted upon
+it being his order, and I've been obliged to cave in."
+
+It was to be a secret from Aleck, however.
+
+How hard it was to keep that secret, when, every time there was a talk
+of Aleck's being able to get down to the Cove, I was on the point of
+letting out what he was to see there!
+
+I did contrive to keep it, however; and when at last February was
+ushered in with a burst of warm weather that tempted all the little buds
+to unfold themselves with a perfectly reckless disregard of the cold
+that was sure to follow, and primroses and violets to start into blossom
+as though they could not lay the bright carpet for spring's advance too
+soon, Dr. Wilson decreed that nothing would do his little patient more
+good than a couple of hours of the freshest sea breezes, caught and
+partaken of on the spot, a mile off from shore;--which meant that Aleck
+had leave to go to the Cove once more, and out upon the sea for a sail.
+
+Of course I had a whole holiday for the occasion; and I had satisfaction
+in observing that I was not the only one unable to settle down into
+quiet occupation. The carriage was nearly ready to drive my parents and
+Aleck down to the lodge, when I started off by way of the Zig-zag, to
+the Cove.
+
+There was the new yacht, already decked from bow to stern with the tiny
+flags which I had been collecting for weeks past. All the sails were
+set, but a little anchor--also my addition to the furniture of the new
+vessel--kept her safely moored; and as she curtsied upon the water,
+every sail and flag reflected as in a mirror, I thought I had never seen
+anything so pretty.
+
+Perhaps Aleck thought so too, for when he arrived a few minutes after,
+leaning on my father's arm, he seemed as if he could not speak, and had
+to sit down quite quietly in the boat whilst he drew the yacht close up
+to the side, and looked at it all over. Then he turned to my father,
+and said something about not being able to thank--and at this point
+broke down in a manner that was so singularly infectious, that no one
+was found able to break the silence at first.
+
+My father said presently, however, "You must carry him off to sea,
+George; and I shall call you to account if those pale cheeks don't
+gather roses from the crests of the waves."
+
+Then we drew up the anchor of the little yacht, and pushed off from the
+shore. A basket of provisions had been placed in the boat, and before we
+had been very long out at sea, George insisted upon its being unpacked,
+threatening Aleck that he should be reported as insubordinate unless he
+consumed precisely the quantity of wine and the whole amount of cold
+chicken dealt out to him.
+
+"Willie," whispered my cousin to me, after dutifully doing his best at
+the luncheon, "I want very much indeed to go to the White-Rock Cove--do
+you think George will let us?"
+
+Certainly I did _not_ think so, but Aleck wished it, and that was quite
+enough to make me join earnestly in his entreaties that we should turn
+the boat's head round in the direction he wished.
+
+Groves consented at last, but not without many misgivings, the
+White-Rock Cove being, he said, about the last place he'd have thought
+of taking us to; and sentiments to the same effect were respectfully
+echoed by Ralph, who, in my private belief, had held the place in
+superstitious horror ever since the 20th of September.
+
+All of us, however, yielded as a matter of course when it was found
+Aleck had set his mind upon it; and the wind being favourable, we were
+not very long in rounding Braycombe headland.
+
+Once in the Cove, my cousin asked me to land with him, requesting George
+and Ralph to leave us ashore a little while.
+
+"It must have been almost exactly here, I think," said Aleck, leading
+the way to the spot which I remembered only too vividly, and glancing
+round to assure himself that our companions were out of sight. "Willie,
+I want us to thank God here, on the very spot--there's no one to see
+us--let us kneel down."
+
+We knelt together at the foot of the White Rock; Aleck, who was still
+very weak, leaning against me for support. They were only a few childish
+words he said, but they came from a full heart; and I never remember in
+later life any liturgical service in church or cathedral that stirred my
+feelings more deeply than that simple thanksgiving. Nor even now, after
+the lapse of many a long year, can I visit that little retired nook in
+the dear Braycombe coast, and hear the plash of the ripple, and the flap
+of the sea-gulls' wings, and the echoing murmurs of the sea in the
+caverns, without being carried back by a rush of tender recollection to
+that day when all Nature's sweet voices seemed to be uniting in one hymn
+of praise, taking up and beautifying and repeating the utterance of two
+little thankful hearts--
+
+"We praise Thee, O God."
+
+
+THE END
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Story of the White-Rock Cove, by Anonymous
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE ***
+
+***** This file should be named 22404-8.txt or 22404-8.zip *****
+This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:
+        http://www.gutenberg.org/2/2/4/0/22404/
+
+Produced by Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe, Mary Meehan and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+(This file was made using scans of public domain works in
+the International Children's Digital Library.)
+
+
+Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions
+will be renamed.
+
+Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no
+one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation
+(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without
+permission and without paying copyright royalties.  Special rules,
+set forth in the General Terms of Use part of this license, apply to
+copying and distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works to
+protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm concept and trademark.  Project
+Gutenberg is a registered trademark, and may not be used if you
+charge for the eBooks, unless you receive specific permission.  If you
+do not charge anything for copies of this eBook, complying with the
+rules is very easy.  You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose
+such as creation of derivative works, reports, performances and
+research.  They may be modified and printed and given away--you may do
+practically ANYTHING with public domain eBooks.  Redistribution is
+subject to the trademark license, especially commercial
+redistribution.
+
+
+
+*** START: FULL LICENSE ***
+
+THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE
+PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK
+
+To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free
+distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work
+(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project
+Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full Project
+Gutenberg-tm License (available with this file or online at
+http://gutenberg.org/license).
+
+
+Section 1.  General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic works
+
+1.A.  By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to
+and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property
+(trademark/copyright) agreement.  If you do not agree to abide by all
+the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or destroy
+all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your possession.
+If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound by the
+terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person or
+entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8.
+
+1.B.  "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark.  It may only be
+used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who
+agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement.  There are a few
+things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works
+even without complying with the full terms of this agreement.  See
+paragraph 1.C below.  There are a lot of things you can do with Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this agreement
+and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works.  See paragraph 1.E below.
+
+1.C.  The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the Foundation"
+or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection of Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic works.  Nearly all the individual works in the
+collection are in the public domain in the United States.  If an
+individual work is in the public domain in the United States and you are
+located in the United States, we do not claim a right to prevent you from
+copying, distributing, performing, displaying or creating derivative
+works based on the work as long as all references to Project Gutenberg
+are removed.  Of course, we hope that you will support the Project
+Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting free access to electronic works by
+freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm works in compliance with the terms of
+this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with
+the work.  You can easily comply with the terms of this agreement by
+keeping this work in the same format with its attached full Project
+Gutenberg-tm License when you share it without charge with others.
+
+1.D.  The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern
+what you can do with this work.  Copyright laws in most countries are in
+a constant state of change.  If you are outside the United States, check
+the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this agreement
+before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, distributing or
+creating derivative works based on this work or any other Project
+Gutenberg-tm work.  The Foundation makes no representations concerning
+the copyright status of any work in any country outside the United
+States.
+
+1.E.  Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg:
+
+1.E.1.  The following sentence, with active links to, or other immediate
+access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear prominently
+whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work on which the
+phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the phrase "Project
+Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, performed, viewed,
+copied or distributed:
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+1.E.2.  If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is derived
+from the public domain (does not contain a notice indicating that it is
+posted with permission of the copyright holder), the work can be copied
+and distributed to anyone in the United States without paying any fees
+or charges.  If you are redistributing or providing access to a work
+with the phrase "Project Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the
+work, you must comply either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1
+through 1.E.7 or obtain permission for the use of the work and the
+Project Gutenberg-tm trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or
+1.E.9.
+
+1.E.3.  If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted
+with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution
+must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any additional
+terms imposed by the copyright holder.  Additional terms will be linked
+to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works posted with the
+permission of the copyright holder found at the beginning of this work.
+
+1.E.4.  Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this
+work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm.
+
+1.E.5.  Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this
+electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without
+prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with
+active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project
+Gutenberg-tm License.
+
+1.E.6.  You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary,
+compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including any
+word processing or hypertext form.  However, if you provide access to or
+distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format other than
+"Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official version
+posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm web site (www.gutenberg.org),
+you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense to the user, provide a
+copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means of obtaining a copy upon
+request, of the work in its original "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other
+form.  Any alternate format must include the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1.
+
+1.E.7.  Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying,
+performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works
+unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.
+
+1.E.8.  You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing
+access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works provided
+that
+
+- You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from
+     the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method
+     you already use to calculate your applicable taxes.  The fee is
+     owed to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he
+     has agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the
+     Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation.  Royalty payments
+     must be paid within 60 days following each date on which you
+     prepare (or are legally required to prepare) your periodic tax
+     returns.  Royalty payments should be clearly marked as such and
+     sent to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the
+     address specified in Section 4, "Information about donations to
+     the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation."
+
+- You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies
+     you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he
+     does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+     License.  You must require such a user to return or
+     destroy all copies of the works possessed in a physical medium
+     and discontinue all use of and all access to other copies of
+     Project Gutenberg-tm works.
+
+- You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of any
+     money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the
+     electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days
+     of receipt of the work.
+
+- You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free
+     distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works.
+
+1.E.9.  If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic work or group of works on different terms than are set
+forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing from
+both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and Michael
+Hart, the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark.  Contact the
+Foundation as set forth in Section 3 below.
+
+1.F.
+
+1.F.1.  Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable
+effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread
+public domain works in creating the Project Gutenberg-tm
+collection.  Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may contain
+"Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate or
+corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other intellectual
+property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or other medium, a
+computer virus, or computer codes that damage or cannot be read by
+your equipment.
+
+1.F.2.  LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right
+of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project
+Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all
+liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal
+fees.  YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT
+LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE
+PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH F3.  YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE
+TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE
+LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR
+INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
+DAMAGE.
+
+1.F.3.  LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a
+defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can
+receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a
+written explanation to the person you received the work from.  If you
+received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium with
+your written explanation.  The person or entity that provided you with
+the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in lieu of a
+refund.  If you received the work electronically, the person or entity
+providing it to you may choose to give you a second opportunity to
+receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund.  If the second copy
+is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing without further
+opportunities to fix the problem.
+
+1.F.4.  Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth
+in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS' WITH NO OTHER
+WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO
+WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTIBILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE.
+
+1.F.5.  Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied
+warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of damages.
+If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement violates the
+law of the state applicable to this agreement, the agreement shall be
+interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or limitation permitted by
+the applicable state law.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any
+provision of this agreement shall not void the remaining provisions.
+
+1.F.6.  INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the
+trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone
+providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in accordance
+with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the production,
+promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works,
+harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, including legal fees,
+that arise directly or indirectly from any of the following which you do
+or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this or any Project Gutenberg-tm
+work, (b) alteration, modification, or additions or deletions to any
+Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any Defect you cause.
+
+
+Section  2.  Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of
+electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of computers
+including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers.  It exists
+because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations from
+people in all walks of life.
+
+Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the
+assistance they need, is critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's
+goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will
+remain freely available for generations to come.  In 2001, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure
+and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future generations.
+To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation
+and how your efforts and donations can help, see Sections 3 and 4
+and the Foundation web page at http://www.pglaf.org.
+
+
+Section 3.  Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive
+Foundation
+
+The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit
+501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the
+state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal
+Revenue Service.  The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification
+number is 64-6221541.  Its 501(c)(3) letter is posted at
+http://pglaf.org/fundraising.  Contributions to the Project Gutenberg
+Literary Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent
+permitted by U.S. federal laws and your state's laws.
+
+The Foundation's principal office is located at 4557 Melan Dr. S.
+Fairbanks, AK, 99712., but its volunteers and employees are scattered
+throughout numerous locations.  Its business office is located at
+809 North 1500 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887, email
+business@pglaf.org.  Email contact links and up to date contact
+information can be found at the Foundation's web site and official
+page at http://pglaf.org
+
+For additional contact information:
+     Dr. Gregory B. Newby
+     Chief Executive and Director
+     gbnewby@pglaf.org
+
+
+Section 4.  Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg
+Literary Archive Foundation
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide
+spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of
+increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be
+freely distributed in machine readable form accessible by the widest
+array of equipment including outdated equipment.  Many small donations
+($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt
+status with the IRS.
+
+The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating
+charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United
+States.  Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a
+considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up
+with these requirements.  We do not solicit donations in locations
+where we have not received written confirmation of compliance.  To
+SEND DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any
+particular state visit http://pglaf.org
+
+While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we
+have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition
+against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who
+approach us with offers to donate.
+
+International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make
+any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from
+outside the United States.  U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff.
+
+Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation
+methods and addresses.  Donations are accepted in a number of other
+ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations.
+To donate, please visit: http://pglaf.org/donate
+
+
+Section 5.  General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works.
+
+Professor Michael S. Hart is the originator of the Project Gutenberg-tm
+concept of a library of electronic works that could be freely shared
+with anyone.  For thirty years, he produced and distributed Project
+Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of volunteer support.
+
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed
+editions, all of which are confirmed as Public Domain in the U.S.
+unless a copyright notice is included.  Thus, we do not necessarily
+keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition.
+
+
+Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility:
+
+     http://www.gutenberg.org
+
+This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm,
+including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary
+Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to
+subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks.
diff --git a/22404-8.zip b/22404-8.zip
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..56c41ae
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-8.zip
diff --git a/22404-h.zip b/22404-h.zip
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..67e1e3b
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-h.zip
diff --git a/22404-h/22404-h.htm b/22404-h/22404-h.htm
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..539ecce
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-h/22404-h.htm
@@ -0,0 +1,4839 @@
+<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN"
+    "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd">
+
+<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
+  <head>
+    <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=iso-8859-1" />
+    <title>
+      The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Story Of The White-rock Cove, by Anonymous.
+    </title>
+    <style type="text/css">
+/*<![CDATA[  XML blockout */
+<!--
+    p {  margin-top: .75em;
+         text-align: justify;
+         margin-bottom: .75em;
+         }
+    h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6 {
+         text-align: center; /* all headings centered */
+         clear: both;
+         }
+    hr { width: 33%;
+	 margin-top: 2em;
+	 margin-bottom: 2em;
+         margin-left: auto;
+         margin-right: auto;
+         clear: both;
+       }
+
+    table {margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;}
+
+    body{margin-left: 10%;
+         margin-right: 10%;
+        }
+
+    .pagenum  { /* uncomment the next line for invisible page numbers */
+            /*  visibility: hidden;  */
+                position: absolute;
+                left: 92%;
+                font-size: smaller;
+                text-align: right;
+              } /* page numbers */
+
+    .linenum  {position: absolute; top: auto; left: 4%;} /* poetry number */
+    .blockquot{margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 10%;}
+    .sidenote {width: 20%; padding-bottom: .5em; padding-top: .5em;
+               padding-left: .5em; padding-right: .5em; margin-left: 1em;
+               float: right; clear: right; margin-top: 1em;
+               font-size: smaller; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: dashed 1px;}
+
+    .bb       {border-bottom: solid 2px;}
+    .bl       {border-left: solid 2px;}
+    .bt       {border-top: solid 2px;}
+    .br       {border-right: solid 2px;}
+    .bbox     {border: solid 2px;}
+
+    .center   {text-align: center;}
+    .smcap    {font-variant: small-caps;}
+    .u        {text-decoration: underline;}
+
+    .caption  {font-weight: bold;}
+
+    .figcenter   {margin: auto; text-align: center;}
+
+    .figleft     {float: left; clear: left; margin-left: 0; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top:
+                 1em; margin-right: 1em; padding: 0; text-align: center;}
+
+    .figright    {float: right; clear: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em;
+                 margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0; padding: 0; text-align: center;}
+
+    .footnotes        {border: dashed 1px;}
+    .footnote         {margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-size: 0.9em;}
+    .footnote .label  {position: absolute; right: 84%; text-align: right;}
+    .fnanchor         {vertical-align: super; font-size: .8em; text-decoration: none;}
+
+    .poem             {margin-left:10%; margin-right:10%; text-align: left;}
+    .poem br          {display: none;}
+    .poem .stanza     {margin: 1em 0em 1em 0em;}
+    .poem span.i0     {display: block; margin-left: 0em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;}
+    .poem span.i2     {display: block; margin-left: 2em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;}
+    .poem span.i4     {display: block; margin-left: 4em; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;}
+    // -->
+    /* XML end  ]]>*/
+    </style>
+  </head>
+<body>
+
+
+<pre>
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Story of the White-Rock Cove, by Anonymous
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Story of the White-Rock Cove
+
+Author: Anonymous
+
+Release Date: August 26, 2007 [EBook #22404]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe, Mary Meehan and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+(This file was made using scans of public domain works in
+the International Children's Digital Library.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a href="images/cover.jpg"><img src="images/cover.jpg" alt=""/></a>
+</div>
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+
+<h1>THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE.</h1>
+
+<h3>With Illustrations.</h3>
+
+<h3>LONDON:<br />
+T. NELSON AND SONS, PATERNOSTER ROW;<br />
+EDINBURGH; AND NEW YORK.</h3>
+
+<h3>1871.</h3>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a name="illus_004" id="illus_004"></a>
+<img src="images/illus_004.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<h3>WILLIE AND ALECK AT THE FOOT OF THE WHITE ROCK</h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h2>CONTENTS</h2>
+
+<!-- Autogenerated TOC. Modify or delete as required. -->
+<p>
+<a href="#CHAPTER_I">CHAPTER I. LONG AGO AT BRAYCOMBE</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_II">CHAPTER II. ALECK'S WELCOME</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_III">CHAPTER III. A WHOLE HOLIDAY</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_IV">CHAPTER IV. THE RIDE TO STAVEMOOR</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_V">CHAPTER V. SHIP-BUILDING</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VI">CHAPTER VI. THE SCHOONER-YACHT</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VII">CHAPTER VII. THE MISSING SHIP</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">CHAPTER VIII. ANOTHER SEARCH</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_IX">CHAPTER IX. SORROWFUL DAYS</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_X">CHAPTER X. SUNDAY EVENING</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XI">CHAPTER XI. THE WHITE-ROCK COVE AGAIN</a><br />
+</p>
+<!-- End Autogenerated TOC. -->
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<h2>LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS</h2>
+
+<p><a href="#illus_004">WILLIE AND ALECK AT THE FOOT OF THE WHITE ROCK.</a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#illus_027">OLD GEORGE AND WILLIE.</a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#illus_061">SAILING THE "FAIR ALICE."</a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#illus_171">THE DISCOVERY.</a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#illus_209">WILLIE AT ALECK'S BED SIDE.</a></p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE.</h2>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I"></a>CHAPTER I.</h2>
+
+<h3>LONG AGO AT BRAYCOMBE.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The Story of the White-Rock Cove&mdash;"<i>to be written down all from the very
+beginning</i>"&mdash;is urgently required by certain youthful petitioners, whose
+importunity is hard to resist; and the request is sealed by a rosy pair
+of lips from the little face nestling at my side, in a manner that
+admits of no denial.</p>
+
+<hr style='width: 45%;' />
+
+<p>"<i>From the beginning</i>;"&mdash;that very beginning carries me back to my own
+old school-room, in the dear home at Braycombe, when, as a little boy
+between nine and ten years old, I sat there doing my lessons.</p>
+
+<p>It was on a Thursday morning, and, consequently, I was my mother's
+pupil. For whereas my tutor, a certain Mr. Glengelly, from our nearest
+town of Elmworth, used to come over on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
+for the carrying forward of my education; my studies were, on the other
+days of the week, which I consequently liked much better, conducted
+under the gentle superintendence of my mother.</p>
+
+<p>On this particular morning I was working with energy at a rule-of-three
+sum, being engaged in a sort of exciting race with the clock, of which
+the result was still doubtful. When, however, the little click, which
+meant, as I well knew, five minutes to twelve, sounded, I had attained
+my quotient in plain figures; a few moments more, and the process of
+<i>fours into, twelves into, twenties into</i>, had been accomplished;
+and just as the clock struck twelve I was able to hand up my slate
+triumphantly with my task completed.</p>
+
+<p>"A drawn game, mamma!" I exclaimed, "between me and the clock;" and
+then with eager eyes I followed hers, as she rapidly ran over the
+figures which had cost me so much trouble, and from time to time
+relieved my mind by a quiet commentary: "Quite right so far;&mdash;No
+mistakes yet;&mdash;You have worked it out well."</p>
+
+<p>Frisk, the intelligent, the affectionate, the well-beloved companion of
+my sports, and the recipient of many of my confidences, woke up from his
+nap, stretched himself, came and placed his fore-paws upon my knees,
+and, looking up in my face, spoke as plainly as if endowed with the
+capacity of expressing himself in human language, to this effect:&mdash;"I'm
+very glad you have finished your lessons; and glad, too, that I was able
+to sleep on a mat in the window, where the warm sunshine has made me
+extremely comfortable. But now your lessons are done, I hope you'll lose
+no time, but come out to play at once. I'm ready when you are."</p>
+
+<p>And Frisk's tail wagged faster and faster when my mother's inspection of
+my sum was concluded, so that I could not help thinking he must have
+understood her when she said,&mdash;"There are no mistakes, Willie; you have
+been a good, industrious little boy this morning; you may go out to play
+with a light heart."</p>
+
+<p>I did not need twice telling, but very soon put away all my books and
+maps, and the slate, with its right side carefully turned down, that it
+might not get rubbed, wiped the pens, placed my copy-book in the drawer,
+and presented myself for that final kiss with which my mother was wont
+to terminate our proceedings, and which was on this occasion accompanied
+by the remonstrance that I was getting quite too big a boy for such
+nonsense.</p>
+
+<p>Then at a bound I disappeared through the window, which opened on the
+lawn, and let off my pent-up steam in the circumnavigation of the
+garden, with Frisk barking at my heels; clearing the geranium-bed with a
+flying leap, and taking the low wire-fence by the shrubbery twice over,
+to the humiliation of my canine companion, who had to dip under where I
+went over.</p>
+
+<p>The conclusion of these performances brought me once again in front of
+the school-room window, where my mother stood beckoning to me. She had
+my straw hat with its sailor's blue ribbons in one hand, and a slice of
+seed-cake in the other.</p>
+
+<p>"Here, Willie," she said, "put on your hat, for the sun is hot although
+there is a fresh breeze; and&mdash;but perhaps I may have been mistaken&mdash;I
+thought perhaps some people of my acquaintance were fond of seed-cake
+for luncheon."</p>
+
+<p>"No indeed, dear mamma," I made answer speedily, "you are not at all
+mistaken: some people&mdash;that is, Frisk and I&mdash;do like it very much; don't
+we Frisk, old fellow?"</p>
+
+<p>"And now," continued my mother,&mdash;who must certainly have forgotten at
+the moment her opinion expressed just five minutes before as to the
+propriety of kisses, for, smoothing back my hair, she stooped down to
+press her lips upon my forehead before putting my hat on,&mdash;"and now you
+are to take your troublesome self off for a long hour, indeed, almost an
+hour and a half: away with you to your play."</p>
+
+<p>"May I take my troublesome self to old George's, mamma?" I petitioned.</p>
+
+<p>"If you like," she answered; "only be careful in going down the
+Zig-zag; I don't want to find you a little heap of broken bones at the
+bottom of the cliff."</p>
+
+<p>I confess myself to being entirely incapable of conveying on paper to my
+young readers the charms, the manifold delights, of that Zig-zag walk,
+which was our shortest way down to the lodge.</p>
+
+<p>You started from the garden, then through the shrubbery, and from the
+shrubbery by a little wire gate you entered the natural wood which
+clothed the upper part of our hill-side. The path descended rapidly from
+this point, being very steep in parts, and emerging every here and there
+so as to command an uninterrupted view of the beautiful Braycombe Bay,
+which on this bright summer morning was all dancing and sparkling in the
+sunshine. Lower down, the wood gave place to rock and turf, until you
+reached the top of the shingle which the path skirted for a little
+distance; and, finally, crossing an undulating meadow, you gained the
+lodge, the abode of my friend old George, mentioned above.</p>
+
+<p>It was not its picturesque beauty alone which endeared the Zig-zag walk
+to me, although, child that I was, I feel sure the loveliness of the
+outer world had the effect, unconsciously to myself, of brightening my
+little inner world; but over and above all this must be ranked my keen
+enjoyment of a scramble, and of the sense of difficulty and danger
+attendant upon certain steep parts of the descent. It was one of my
+great amusements to be trusted occasionally to guide my parents'
+visitors down by this path, for the sake of the view, whilst their
+carriages would be sent the long way by the drive to meet them at the
+lodge. There were precipitous places, where even grave and stately
+grown-up people would give up walking and take to running; and then
+again little perilous points, where ladies especially would utter faint
+cries of fright, and would require gentle persuasion to induce them to
+step down from stone to stone; whilst I, fearless from long practice,
+would triumphantly perform the feat two or three times, to show that I
+was not in the least afraid, devising, moreover, short cuts for myself
+even steeper than those of the recognized path.</p>
+
+<p>I question whether the birth-day which conferred on me the privilege of
+going alone up and down the Zig-zag was the greatest boon to myself or
+to my nurse; the exertion involved in scaling the hill-side being to the
+full as wearisome to her as it was enchanting to myself. The
+emancipation, however, came early in my career, since my friend, old
+George, by my father's consent, assumed a sort of out-of-door charge of
+me at a period when most little boys are exclusively under nursery
+discipline. For my father reposed the utmost confidence in the old man's
+principles, and did not hesitate to let me be for hours under his care,
+saying, often in my hearing, that he would rather have me out on the
+water learning from him how to manage the boats, or climbing the rocks
+and exploring the caves under his safe guardianship, than learning from
+a woman only how to keep <i>off</i> the rocks and avoid tumbling into the
+water. He was an old seaman, united by strong ties of friendship and
+gratitude to our family. In earlier years he had served on board the
+same ship in which my father had been a young midshipman; and on one
+occasion, when my father fell overboard, at a time when the vessel was
+at full speed, had thrown himself into the water, and held my father's
+head up when he was too exhausted to swim, until the boat put out for
+the rescue had time to come up and save both lives, which the delay had
+placed in great peril. When, some years later, on my grandfather's
+death, my father came to live at Braycombe, he insisted upon Groves, who
+was just about to be pensioned off through some failure in health,
+coming to settle with his wife at the lodge, promising him the charge of
+our boats, so that he might have a taste of his old occupation. His
+daughter-in-law, widow of his only son, who had been drowned, obtained
+the situation of schoolmistress, and lived near to the old couple with
+Ralph, <i>her</i> only son, a lad some few years my senior, who was employed
+about the place under his grandfather's supervision, and helped in
+rowing when we went out upon the water.</p>
+
+<p>A friendship firm and tender had grown up between myself and the old
+seaman, I accepting him as a grown-up play-fellow, and revealing to him
+in detail all the many plans continually suggesting themselves to my
+fertile imagination, and finding in him an ever ready sympathy, and,
+when possible, active co-operation in my schemes.</p>
+
+<p>From which digression, explanatory of the relationship subsisting
+between old George&mdash;as he had taught me from infancy to call him, <i>Mr.
+Groves</i>, as he was more properly designated by the neighbourhood&mdash;and
+myself, I must return to the bright June morning upon which, after my
+usual fashion, I descended the Zig-zag, running, scrambling, sliding,
+with Frisk scampering and capering at my side, making wild snaps at
+pieces of cake which I broke off for him from time to time, and held up
+as high as I could reach, that he might have to jump for them.</p>
+
+<p>We were not long in gaining the lodge, which, by the carriage drive, was
+nearly three-quarters of a mile from the house. I produced a series of
+knocks upon the door, like those of a London postman, though, as old
+George was wont to remark,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"What's the use, Master Willie, of knocking like that; you never stop to
+hear me say 'Come in,' but just burst open the door and drive in like a
+gust of wind promiscuous." But, in self-defence, I must explain that my
+defective manners in this particular were entirely due to my old friend
+himself, who, from earliest infancy, had trained me in all manner of
+impertinent familiarities. It was traditional that I cried to go to him
+whilst I was still in arms; that I made attacks of an aggravated
+character upon his brass buttons before I could walk alone; and I could
+just remember experiments upon his white beard, as trying doubtless to
+him as they were interesting to myself, conducted with philosophical
+determination on my part, in order to ascertain whether it came off by
+pulling or not! In all of which proceedings my friend greatly encouraged
+me, so that the blame of my failure in the laws of etiquette lay at his
+door.</p>
+
+<p>Only Mrs. Groves was in the cottage when I rushed in eagerly upon the
+morning in question. She was busy in culinary mysteries, but assured me
+her master would be soon in, and, in the meantime, I was to make myself
+at home; which I did at once.</p>
+
+<p>"And your dear ma, how's she?" inquired the good lady presently,
+settling a cover on a saucepan in a decisive manner, and sitting down
+during a pause in her operations. "I saw her drive by yesterday; and
+Susan told me she'd been at the school. A blessed time children have of
+it these days, going to school; it's very different to what it was in my
+time."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you didn't go to school?" I asked, being privately of opinion that
+she was rather fortunate as a child.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh yes, sir, I went to school, but not like the schooling children has
+now-a-days, with a high-born lady like your ma going herself to see
+them;&mdash;our old dame, she teached us all she knew&mdash;to read, and mark, and
+learn,&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"And inwardly digest?" I suggested, as Mrs. Groves hesitated in her
+enumeration of accomplishments.</p>
+
+<p>But there was not time to satisfy me concerning this branch of her
+education, for old George appearing at the moment, I flew to meet him,
+and we strolled down to the water's edge together.</p>
+
+<p>"I've been longing to see you," I exclaimed. "It's about Aleck, my
+cousin Aleck, I wanted to tell you. He's coming, and uncle and aunt
+Gordon, on Thursday week; that's only just a fortnight, you know."</p>
+
+<p>Aleck was my only boy cousin, and ever since there had been a notion of
+his coming to Braycombe, I had been thinking and dreaming of him
+incessantly. My aunt Gordon had been in very delicate health, and the
+doctors ordered foreign air and constant change for the summer months,
+and a winter in some warm climate. There had been some hesitation as to
+how my cousin, their only child, should be disposed of. He was not very
+strong, and school life, it was feared, might be too great an ordeal for
+another year; so my parents had written, offering that he should spend
+that time at Braycombe, and share my tutor's instructions. The decisive
+answer from my uncle had only just arrived, and I was in a tumult of joy
+and excitement that it was in favour of my cousin's coming to stay with
+us, and that the actual day of our visitors' arrival had been fixed.</p>
+
+<p>George listened with every appearance of interest to my communication.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm glad your cousin's coming, Master Willie, as you're pleased," he
+said.</p>
+
+<p>"But aren't you glad, too, for your own sake?" I asked. "It will be so
+nice having him to play with us."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, I'll be pleased to see him, never fear for that," responded George.
+"I knew his father when he was but a little fellow like yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"Mamma calls me her <i>big</i> boy," I threw in, disapprovingly. "But what do
+you think Aleck will be like?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, sir, I should expect very much such another young craft as
+yourself; or, now I come to think of it, perhaps a year older or so."</p>
+
+<p>"Not a year," I replied; "ten months and a half. I asked mamma his
+birth-day. Do you think he'll be as tall as me? because papa and mamma
+say I'm tall for my age."</p>
+
+<p>"His father stood six feet one the day he came of age. I daresay his son
+will take after him," said George.</p>
+
+<p>"And be as tall as that?" I inquired, feeling rather anxious, until
+reassured, at the transformation of my cousin in prospect into a young
+giant.</p>
+
+<p>I suppose that few children had ever seen less of other children than I
+had up to this time. There were but three gentlemen's houses in our
+neighbourhood: the Rectory, where lived the elderly clergyman and his
+wife, who had never had a family; the Elms, a country seat, where Sir
+John and Lady Cosington and two grown-up daughters resided; and
+Willowbank, another country place, occupied by a young married couple,
+with one little baby. Elmworth, our nearest town, was seven miles off;
+and this distance almost entirely precluded intercourse with any of the
+families there.</p>
+
+<p>In consequence of this, I had been completely without companions of my
+own age up to this time. In books I had read much of children's
+amusements with their companions; and although the perfect happiness of
+my own home left nothing really to be wished for, if ever a wish <i>did</i>
+occur to me for anything I had not, it was for a play-fellow and
+companion somewhere about my own age; and now, when this wish of mine
+was really on the eve of being realized, I was filled with vague dreams
+and anticipations of all the delight which it was to bring to me. When
+George and I had mutually agreed that my cousin Aleck&mdash;allowing for the
+difference of age&mdash;might be reasonably expected to be somewhat taller
+than myself, we sat down on the beach, and began to discuss certain
+plans of mine for giving him a suitable welcome.</p>
+
+<p>Dim ideas, the result of "Illustrated London News'" pictures, were
+floating in my mind&mdash;bouquets, triumphal arches, addresses, and so
+forth&mdash;even although I wound up by saying&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Of course, not like that exactly; only something&mdash;something rather
+grand."</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a name="illus_027" id="illus_027"></a>
+<img src="images/illus_027.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<h3>OLD GEORGE AND WILLIE.</h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p>Old George, however, kindly and wisely pulled my schemes down, and laid
+them affectionately in the dust:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"You see, Master Willie, anything written, even in your best hand,
+wouldn't come up to what you will say in the first five minutes by word
+of mouth; and then the school banners, though very suitable for a
+feast&mdash;and I'm sure my Susan would be right pleased to look them up for
+you&mdash;would be no ways suitable. '<i>A merry Christmas and happy New
+Year</i>,' or, '<i>Braycombe Schools, founded 1830</i>,' would look odd-like
+flying in the avenue at this time of year. And though I'd be glad to do
+anything to give you pleasure, I'd rather be opening the gate to your
+uncle and aunt and cousin, as they drive up, than firing off a gun,
+which might disturb their nerves, not to say frighten the horses."</p>
+
+<p>All of which was perfectly unanswerable. But as old George put on his
+spectacles in conclusion, I knew he meant to consider the subject with
+attention; and I therefore remained quietly at his side, sending flat
+stones skimming along the water, or throwing in a stick for Frisk to
+fetch out again, until, as I expected, he signified to me that he had
+thought of what would do.</p>
+
+<p>He said that the light arch which supported the central lamp over the
+gate might be very easily decked with evergreens for the occasion, and
+the word <i>welcome</i>, traced in flowers, put up so as to appear very
+pretty with the green background; whilst the flag-staff at the top of
+the hill, just by the shrubbery, should display all the flags that our
+establishment could boast of.</p>
+
+<p>Groves' scheme, though not quite so extensive as those which had floated
+through my childish imagination, was sufficiently attractive to be very
+welcome; and I eagerly insisted upon our immediately returning to the
+lodge, where George took certain measurements of the arch which
+impressed me wonderfully with a sense of his superiority, and wisdom.</p>
+
+<p>By which time Mrs. Groves looked out to say that her husband's dinner
+would be spoiled by waiting, or eaten by the dog, "which there was no
+driving off." And I, thus reminded of the time, settled the difficulty
+about Frisk by taking him up bodily in my arms, and, hurrying off,
+reached home only just in time to get ready for dinner before the gong
+sounded.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II"></a>CHAPTER II.</h2>
+
+<h3>ALECK'S WELCOME.</h3>
+
+
+<p>It is almost unnecessary to remark that the fortnight preceding my
+cousin's arrival was one of the longest I had ever spent&mdash;even longer
+than those preceding birth-days or Christmas. However, the long
+looked-for Thursday came at last.</p>
+
+<p>I pleaded hard for a whole holiday, but my mother would not be
+persuaded; so I had to do my morning lessons as usual, and confessed,
+after they were over, that the hours had passed much faster than I at
+all expected.</p>
+
+<p>In consideration of the travellers having, in all probability, had but
+little time for refreshment, dinner was to be rather earlier than usual;
+and Aleck and I were to have it, for once, with the elders of the
+party. Luncheon was also early; and not having the time to go down to
+the lodge before it, I went out into the garden with my mother to help
+in gathering a nosegay for my aunt's room.</p>
+
+<p>How fresh and beautiful everything looked that morning, as we stood
+there amongst the flowers, my mother selecting the materials for the
+nosegay, and I holding the basket, and handing her the scissors as she
+wanted them, or executing at intervals little by-plays with Frisk. I
+remember feeling a kind of intense thrill of happiness, which to this
+day is vividly recalled by the scent of those particular roses and
+geraniums; and also a sort of dim wonder about the unhappiness which I
+had heard and read of as the fate of some&mdash;pondering in my own mind how
+it felt to be so very unhappy, and whether people couldn't help it if
+they would only go out into the fresh air and warm sunshine, and enjoy
+themselves as I did. From which speculations I was recalled by my mother
+saying,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I think we have enough flowers, Willie; perhaps just one creeper for
+the outside of the vase. There&mdash;we shall do now."</p>
+
+<p>Then we went in by the school-room window, and I fetched the large vase
+from the east bed-room, and stood by my mother whilst tastefully and
+daintily she arranged the flowers as I thought none but she could
+arrange them. She had nearly completed her task when my father came into
+the school-room.</p>
+
+<p>"I am sending the carriage early, dear," he said to her; "for although I
+think they cannot arrive until the 4.50 train, there is just the chance
+of their catching the one before. Have you any messages for Rickson?"</p>
+
+<p>"None, dear," answered my mother. "But you must stay for a moment and
+look at my flowers. Are they not sweet and pretty?"</p>
+
+<p>"Very sweet and very pretty," replied my father. But I thought he looked
+at her more than at the flowers when he said so; and she laughed,
+although, after all, there was nothing to laugh at.</p>
+
+<p>"Willie and I have been gathering them," she said; "and now we are going
+to put them in Bessie's room."</p>
+
+<p>"I know who remembers everything that can give pleasure to others,"
+observed my father, whose hand was on my shoulder by this time. "Willie,
+I hope you will grow up like your mamma."</p>
+
+<p>Not quite seeing the force of this observation, I replied that, being a
+boy, I thought I had better grow up like him. And both my parents
+laughed; but my mother said she quite agreed with me, it would be far
+better.</p>
+
+<p>Then we carried the vase up, and placed it on the table in the window of
+the east bed-room; and my mother flitted about, putting little finishing
+touches here and there to complete the arrangements for the comfort of
+her visitors, whilst I received a commission to inspect portfolios,
+envelope-cases, and ink-bottles, and to see that all were freshly
+replenished.</p>
+
+<p>These matters being finally disposed of, I persuaded my mother to ascend
+to the more remote part of the house, where a room next to my own had,
+at my earnest request, been prepared for my cousin, and in the
+decoration of which I felt peculiar interest. There was a twin bedstead
+to my own, and various other pieces of furniture corresponding;
+moreover, in an impulse of generosity I had transferred certain of my
+own possessions into Aleck's apartment, with a noble determination to be
+extremely liberal.</p>
+
+<p>My mother noticed these at once, but I was a little disappointed that
+she did not commend my liberality.</p>
+
+<p>"You see, mamma," I explained, "there's my own green boat with the
+union-jack, and the bat I liked best before papa gave me my last new
+one, and the dissected map of the queens of England."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I see, Willie," replied my mother; proceeding in the meantime to
+certain readjustments urgently called for, by the critical position of
+the bat standing on the drawers against the wall, and the boat nearly
+falling from the mantelpiece.</p>
+
+<p>"There, my child," she said; "the bat will do better in the comer, and
+the ship upon the drawers. And now the puzzle: why, Willie, this is the
+very one of which I heard you say there were three pieces missing; and
+then Mrs. Barbauld you think childish for yourself!"</p>
+
+<p>My countenance fell, for I had been indulging in the cheap generosity of
+giving away second-bests, and I could see my mother did not admire such
+liberality. Indeed, after a moment's consideration, I was ashamed of it
+myself, and hastened with alacrity to hide Mrs. Barbauld, and the Queens
+of England, and one or two other trifles, in the obscurity of my own
+room; whilst my mother decided upon the best position for a couple of
+prettily-framed pictures which she had had brought up, and fastened an
+illuminated text, similar to one in my own room, opposite the bed&mdash;"<i>The
+things which are seen are temporal; the things which are unseen are
+eternal</i>"&mdash;and placed a little statuette of a guardian angel, with the
+scroll underneath, "<i>He shall give His angels charge over thee</i>," over
+the bed-head.</p>
+
+<p>"What a good thought, mamma," I said, when she had finished her
+arrangements; "that looks exactly like mine."</p>
+
+<p>"Just what I want it to look, Willie. You and Aleck are to be as like
+brothers to each other as may be. You have never had brother or sister
+of your own, Willie&mdash;not that you can remember [there <i>had</i> been one
+infant sister, whose death, when about a month old, had been my parents'
+greatest sorrow]&mdash;but now that your cousin is likely to stay a long time
+with us, I hope that you and he will be as much as possible like
+brothers to each other."</p>
+
+<p>Then my mother, who was sitting at the foot of the bed, drew me towards
+her, and quietly talked to me about some of the new duties as well as
+temptations which would come with new pleasures, bidding me remember
+that I was to try never to think first of myself, but to be willing to
+consider others before myself. We had been reading the 13th of First
+Corinthians that morning together, and her observations seemed to me as
+if drawn straight from that source; indeed, before long she reminded me
+of it, bidding me remember it supplied the standard we ought to aim at,
+and telling me that strength would be always given, <i>if I sought it</i>, to
+help me to be what I wanted to be; it was only those who did not
+heartily strive who got beaten in the conflict.</p>
+
+<p>It is not to be supposed that this was all uttered in a set speech; I am
+giving the substance only of a few minutes' quiet talk which we had up
+there in the bed-room together that morning before luncheon, and which I
+confess to having felt at the time rather superfluous, my delight in the
+anticipation of my cousin's arrival convincing me that there would be no
+fear of my finding anything but happiness in my intercourse with him.</p>
+
+<p>My mother, on the contrary, as I afterwards had reason to know, was by
+no means without anxiety. She knew that hitherto I had been completely
+shielded from every possible trial. The darling of herself and my
+father, and, as the only child, a favourite amongst the attached members
+of our household, my wants had been all anticipated, and every pleasure
+suited to my age had been planned for me so ingeniously, that I had
+never had the chance of showing myself selfish or ill-tempered. She
+feared that when for the first time I found myself not <i>first</i>
+considered in all arrangements, I might fail in those particular points
+of conduct in which she was most anxious I should triumph.</p>
+
+<p>My mother's gentle admonitions, to which I at the time paid little heed,
+were interrupted by the luncheon gong.</p>
+
+<p>"When will the wonderful preparations at the gate be ready?" asked my
+father whilst we were at table.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, there's nothing left to do but to fasten up the flowers. Old George
+says it won't take an hour," I replied.</p>
+
+<p>"Then if I come down at three o'clock the show will be ready?"</p>
+
+<p>"Quite ready," I said. "And mamma will come too?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course mamma's coming too; unless, indeed, you mean to charge so
+high a price for the exhibition," said my father comically, "that I
+cannot afford it. But even then," he added, "mamma shall see it; I'll
+give it up for her."</p>
+
+<p>I was off from the luncheon-table as soon as possible, but found nurse
+lying in wait to capture me and enforce upon my mind the first duty of
+returning by four o'clock, to be dressed properly before the arrival of
+our visitors, whose impression of me, she conceived, would be most
+unfavourable were they to find me in what she was pleased to call "this
+trumpery," referring to a little sailor's suit of white and blue in
+which I was very generally attired, and which nurse chose to
+disapprove. She wound up her admonition by a sort of lament over my
+light-mindedness as to my best clothes; a spirit which, she remarked,
+was apt to cling to people to their graves&mdash;sometimes afterwards; which
+I scarcely thought possible.</p>
+
+<p>Frisk and I darted down the Zig-zag at our usual pace, so soon as I was
+released from nurse's kind offices, and joined old George, who was on
+the look-out for us.</p>
+
+<p>Very pleased we were with the result of our exertions when the really
+pretty triumphal arch was completed; the letters of the word <i>Welcome</i>
+in conspicuously gay flowers forming a pretty contrast to the leafy
+background, and eliciting what we felt to be a well-merited admiration
+from my parents and a select committee of servants, who came severally
+to inspect our handiwork in the course of the afternoon.</p>
+
+<p>"It's fit for Her Majesty," said my father in his playful way, "and far
+too fine for a little stranger boy! In fact, it seems scarcely proper
+that a humble individual like myself should pass under it!"</p>
+
+<p>"You're not a humble individual, papa!" I exclaimed vehemently.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, dear! oh, dear!" sighed my father, "that it should come to such a
+pass as this; my only son tells me I am wanting in humility&mdash;not a
+humble person!"</p>
+
+<p>"An <i>individual</i>!" I said, feeling that made a great difference. "But
+now, papa, you're only in fun; you know I didn't mean that."</p>
+
+<p>"One thing I do mean very distinctly, Willie, which is, that I must not
+stay chattering here with you any longer, or my letters will never be
+ready before post-time. You may stay a little longer with George if you
+like."</p>
+
+<p>I stayed accordingly, determining to be home by the Zig-zag at the
+appointed hour.</p>
+
+<p>But my parents had scarcely had the time necessary for walking up to the
+house, when the sharp sound of horses' trot suddenly aroused my
+attention, and in another moment our carriage, with the travellers
+inside, was rounding the curve of the road, and had drawn up before the
+gate.</p>
+
+<p>My confusion and shyness at thus being surprised were indescribable;
+and a latent desire to take to immediate flight and get home the short
+way might probably have prevailed, had not my uncle's quick eye caught
+sight of me as I drew back under the shelter of old George.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, surely there must be Willie!" he exclaimed; and in another moment
+Groves had hoisted my unwilling self on to the step of the carriage, and
+was introducing me to my relations, regardless of my shy desire to stand
+upon the ground, and make geological researches with my eyes under the
+wheels.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir, this is Master Willie; he's been uncommon taken up with the
+other young master coming, and it's his thought having a bit of
+something [To think of old George designating our beautiful arch as a
+bit of something!] put up at the gate to bid him welcome."</p>
+
+<p>"There's for you, Aleck," said my uncle to a fair-haired boy sitting in
+the furthest corner of the carriage opposite to my aunt, whom I just
+mustered courage to look at. "You'll have to make your best bow and a
+very grand speech, to return thanks for such an honour."</p>
+
+<p>"Master didn't expect you so soon, sir," proceeded George; "he thought
+you'd be coming by the next train; that's how it is that Master Willie
+was down here."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I think the best thing we can do with Master Willie is to carry
+him up to the house with us," said my uncle. And accordingly I was
+lifted over from my step into the midst of the party in the carriage,
+and seated down between my uncle and aunt.</p>
+
+<p>The coachman was compelled to rein in the horses a minute longer, whilst
+they all looked at and admired the arch, and then we bowled off rapidly
+up the avenue. I sometimes think we remember our life in pictures:
+certainly the very frontispiece of my acquaintance with my cousin Aleck
+always is, and will be, a distinct mind's eye picture of that party in
+the carriage, with myself in their midst.</p>
+
+<p>Uncle Gordon sitting in the right hand corner with his arm round me,
+keeping me very close to himself, so that I might not crowd my aunt, who
+was leaning back on the other side of me, as though weary with the long
+journey. Opposite my uncle my aunt's maid, with a green bonnet decorated
+with a bow of red velvet of angular construction in the centre of the
+front, to which the parting of her hair seemed to lead up like a broad
+white road; she was grasping, as though her life depended upon her
+keeping them safely, a sort of family fagot of umbrellas in one hand,
+whilst with the other she kept a leather-covered dressing-case steady on
+her lap. In the fourth corner was my cousin, in full Highland kilt, such
+as I had hitherto seen only in toy-books of the costumes of all nations
+or other pictures, and which inspired me with a wonderful amount of
+curiosity. Lastly, myself in blue and white sailor's dress, looking, no
+doubt, as if I had been captured from a man-of-war; conscious of tumbled
+hair, and doubtful hands, and retribution in store for me in the shape
+of a talking-to from nurse, who had still unlimited jurisdiction over my
+wardrobe, for having been surprised in a state she would designate as
+"not fit to be seen."</p>
+
+<p>Aleck and I found our eyes wandering to each other momentarily as we
+drove along. When they met, we took them off again, and pretended to
+look out at opposite sides of the carriage; but this happened so often,
+that at last we both laughed, and&mdash;the ice broke. I was quite on chatty
+terms before we reached the house.</p>
+
+<p>"There are papa and mamma!" I exclaimed, as we came in sight of the
+entrance. They had heard the carriage, and were at the door to welcome
+their guests.</p>
+
+<p>"See, I have brought you two boys instead of one," said my uncle,
+lifting me out first, and then proceeding to help out my aunt, as if she
+were a delicate piece of china, and "With care" labelled outside her.</p>
+
+<p>When the greetings were over, my mother declared a rest on the sofa in
+her room and a cup of tea indispensable for my aunt's refreshment. My
+uncle took my father's arm and disappeared into the study; and we two
+boys were left to take care of each other until dinner-time.</p>
+
+<p>I proposed going round the garden, and Frisk being of the party,
+proceeded to show off his accomplishments. This led to an animated
+description of my cousin's dog, C&aelig;sar, and a comparison of the ways and
+habits of C&aelig;sar the Big with those of Frisk the Little, on the strength
+of which we became very intimate.</p>
+
+<p>Afterwards we returned to the house, and having shown Aleck his room, I
+took him into mine, where we were found seated on the floor surrounded
+by "my things," which I had been exhibiting in detail to my cousin, when
+nurse came, a little before six o'clock, to see that we were ready for
+dinner.</p>
+
+<p>"Aleck, tell me one thing," I had just said to my cousin; "are they
+really your knees or leather?"</p>
+
+<p>Aleck stared, "Leather! why, of course not; what made you think such an
+odd question?"</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't think they <i>could</i> be leather after the first minute," I
+replied, doubtfully; "but I couldn't know&mdash;"</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III"></a>CHAPTER III.</h2>
+
+<h3>A WHOLE HOLIDAY.</h3>
+
+
+<p>To what boy or girl does not the promise of a whole holiday convey a
+sort of Fortunatus' purse of anticipated enjoyment! I used to wonder&mdash;I
+remember wondering that very day after Aleck's arrival, when I had the
+most enjoyable whole holiday I ever spent&mdash;why grown-up people who
+always had them should seem so indifferent to their privileges, writing
+it down upon the secret tablets of my resolve, that when <i>I</i> grew up
+things should be very different with me.</p>
+
+<p>My cousin and I sat side by side at the breakfast-table in a vehement
+impulse of boyish affection, so completely taken up with each other that
+I for one never remember noticing any one else during the progress of
+the meal, except when once I caught a wistful look from my aunt, and
+heard her saying, in a rather sorrowful low voice, to my mother,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I am very thankful to see our boys take to each other; it is quite a
+load off my mind that Aleck should be with you instead of being left at
+school."</p>
+
+<p>"Won't Aleck come too?" I asked my mother, when she summoned me to our
+usual Bible-reading after breakfast.</p>
+
+<p>"Not whilst his own mamma is here," was the answer; and I was obliged to
+rest content. But the moment I had put away my Bible, I flew off in
+search of him, eagerly explaining that we were to do what we liked for
+the whole of the morning, and sketching out a plan for our amusement
+such as I thought would be pleasant to him:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"First, we must go over the whole house&mdash;you've only seen a little bit
+of it yet&mdash;and the kitchen-garden and the stables, and then down the
+Zig-zag to old George's, and we'll get him to go out with us in the
+boat. It's smooth enough to sail the 'Fair Alice'&mdash;that's a little yacht
+of mine that old George gave me."</p>
+
+<p>Aleck's face brightened. "May you go out in a boat when you like?" he
+asked, eagerly. "Oh, how <i>de</i>-light-ful!"</p>
+
+<p>How we careered over the house that morning, visiting every nook and
+corner of it, from the "leads" on the roof; accessible only by a ladder
+and trap-door, to the most hidden repositories in the housekeeper's
+domain! The servants good naturedly remarked I had gone crazy. Presently
+I bade Aleck shut his eyes, and submit to my guidance blindfold, whilst
+I led him to the only room he had not been in. We passed through several
+passages, and then I went forward, tapped at a door, and finding I might
+come in, fetched Aleck, still with eyes shut.</p>
+
+<p>"There now, you may look," I exclaimed, watching in a satisfied manner
+the astonishment with which he opened his eyes to find himself in the
+study, and his confusion on seeing my father seated at the library table
+near the window, surrounded by books and papers.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, uncle," he exclaimed, "I did not know I was in your room!"</p>
+
+<p>"And are very much startled at finding yourself there," said my father,
+finishing his sentence for him. "What shall we do with the culprit,
+Willie? Prosecute him according to the utmost rigour of the law, and
+sentence him to a year's imprisonment at Braycombe, with hard labour,
+under Mr. Glengelly and old George!"</p>
+
+<p>"I think that would be a very good punishment," I answered, "only I
+should like it to be more than a year."</p>
+
+<p>"See what a cruel fellow your cousin is," said my father, getting up
+from his chair, and proceeding to take Aleck round the room, showing him
+various curiosities with which I was familiar; then he sat down again,
+and keeping Aleck at his side, told him that so long as he remained at
+Braycombe he was to feel as much at home, and as welcome to the study as
+I was, and that he was to try and trust him as he could his own father,
+until we all had the joy of welcoming his parents home again.</p>
+
+<p>"Famous chats we get here sometimes, eh, Willie?" he concluded,
+appealing to me.</p>
+
+<p>"<i>Rather!</i>" I answered emphatically, seating myself on the arm of his
+chair, and looking over his shoulder. "Papa, shall you have time to
+play with us this afternoon. It's a whole holiday. I want you to very
+much."</p>
+
+<p>"I fear not, Willie. I must be away all the morning. Peter the Great
+will be at the door to carry me off in another minute, and I must keep
+the afternoon for your uncle and aunt. To-morrow afternoon I will give
+you an hour, only I stipulate you must have mercy upon your old father,
+and not expect him to climb trees like a squirrel, or run like a hare."</p>
+
+<p>"You know you're not an <i>old</i> father, papa," I said; "and, Aleck, papa
+can run quite fast&mdash;faster than anybody else I ever saw, and he climbs
+better than anybody else. He's been up the tree I showed you in the
+avenue."</p>
+
+<p>"Whatever papa's qualifications may be," my father observed, "the end of
+the matter just at present is, that Rickson is coming round with the
+horses, and I cannot keep his imperial majesty waiting."</p>
+
+<p>"What does uncle do?" inquired my cousin after we had been to the door
+and had seen my father mount and ride away on Peter the Great.</p>
+
+<p>"Papa! oh, he does quantities of things," I replied, somewhat vaguely.</p>
+
+<p>"What kind of things?"</p>
+
+<p>I proceeded to enumerate them promiscuously:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Why, he's a magistrate, and tries cases at Elmworth, and sends people
+to prison; and he goes to a hospital twice every week at Elmworth, and
+he goes to see poor people&mdash;we often have some from the hospital down
+here; and he always has quantities of letters; and he reads to mamma;
+and, do you know, he once wrote a book&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>I paused, not so much because I had exhausted the list of my father's
+employments, as because I had named that achievement which of all others
+filled me with the deepest awe and reverence. I could remember how, when
+I was four years old, my mother had lifted me up to see a volume on the
+counter of the great bookseller's shop at Elmworth, and had let me spell
+through the name "Grant" on the title-page. I felt as if I had risen in
+life, and looked upon books in general with a feeling of personal
+friendship, as from one behind the scenes, from that day; whilst,
+personally, I was much elated by the thought of what a very wonderful
+and extraordinary man my father was. I was rather glad when Aleck told
+me that he did not think his papa had ever written a book;&mdash;it made me
+feel a little bit superior to him.</p>
+
+<p>After going to the stables to see my pony, we proceeded to the Zig-zag,
+chattering fast the whole way. I was full of plans and projects, and
+anxious at once to interest my cousin in every one of them.</p>
+
+<p>"You see," I explained, "there are quantities of things that we haven't
+been able to do, because there's been only George and me; and he's
+always had it to say that there were only us two, and that he was old
+and I young, but he can't say that now."</p>
+
+<p>"He doesn't seem so very old," remarked Aleck.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think he is," I answered, "but he's taught me to call him old
+George since I have been a baby; everybody else calls him Groves or Mr.
+Groves. Now there's one thing I want very much to begin, and that is
+digging a hole right through the earth to come out at the other side,
+where, you know, we should find ourselves standing on our heads! George
+has always kept putting off beginning. But haven't you heard of many
+people beginning to do something great when they were boys?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Aleck, musingly; "I have a book about wonderful boys,
+and one of them cut out a lion in butter, and another drew a picture
+upon a stump of a tree; but I don't think we should be able to dig so
+very far down&mdash;we should have to stop at last."</p>
+
+<p>This unprejudiced opinion of my cousin's, adverse as it was to my
+favourite scheme, was rather disappointing, but we were now engaged in
+the excitement of descending the Zig-zag, so I had not leisure to think
+much about it.</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't it a jolly way down?" I exclaimed. "Papa says it's two hundred
+feet to that piece of rock down below."</p>
+
+<p>"It's not steeper than our hills at home," said Aleck; "only we have not
+the sea near us&mdash;oh, how I wish we had!"</p>
+
+<p>Aleck was quite as good a scrambler as I was, so we were not long in
+reaching the lodge, where old George seemed to be on the watch for us,
+and welcomed us both with his wonted heartiness.</p>
+
+<p>"Master told me you'd be coming down, young gentlemen, as he rode by,
+and that you were to go out as much as you liked in the boat; and so
+I've been telling my good wife she must keep the look-out for the gate.
+Ralph's coming along presently, and will be down at the Cove most as
+soon as we shall."</p>
+
+<p>George wanted Aleck to go into the lodge and see certain objects of
+interest, which, to use his own words, he "set <i>great store by</i>." But I
+was too eager to allow of this, and insisted upon our setting out at
+once for the Cove. "I want to show him the greatest treasure I have of
+all my treasures," I exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>"Is that the 'Fair Alice' you were telling me of?" asked Aleck.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; you'll see her presently," I replied; "and you won't wonder that I
+like her better than all my other things."</p>
+
+<p>I led the way at once by a footpath from the lodge across the sloping
+green meadow, then through a little tangled copse, and finally a short
+rocky descent to what was at Braycombe always styled <i>the</i> Cove. Not but
+that there were many coves on our beautiful indented coast, but this one
+was the most accessible on our grounds. The boat-house and the
+bathing-box were both here; and here, too, as being within easy reach, I
+had from earliest years climbed and scrambled and explored, until every
+stone was almost as familiar as the letters of my alphabet; and I could
+tell at what state of the tide certain rocks would be uncovered, and
+knew at a glance whether it would be safe to cross from one part to
+another on stepping-stones, or whether, to reach a given spot, we must
+go round by the side of the hill. How I loved, and do love, every foot
+of the ground, every stone, every rock, every silvery ripple of that the
+most charming of all possible play-grounds!</p>
+
+<p>Thither, then, I led the way, Aleck following me closely, and George
+more slowly behind.</p>
+
+<p>"There now," I cried, drawing up breathlessly as we gained our
+destination, "see, that's my boat-house." It was an exact miniature of
+the real boat-house, and Aleck stood transfixed with admiration looking
+at it; for of all things calculated for the amusement of children,
+nothing, I think, succeeds so well as real miniatures&mdash;imitations in
+proportion&mdash;of things which belong to the grown-up world. But the true
+kernel of the nut&mdash;the jewel of the case&mdash;was the elegant little model
+yacht, which I presently drew forth from her moorings within.</p>
+
+<p>"Now that's the 'Fair Alice,'" I continued; "isn't she lovely?"</p>
+
+<p>"Awfully jolly," Aleck replied, after gazing for a moment in speechless
+admiration. "I never saw anything half so nice before! Oh, if only we
+were small enough to get into it! Just look how beautifully the deck is
+made&mdash;I can see all the little timbers; and the mast, it's nearly as
+high as I am; and those little pulleys&mdash;oh, how perfect they are!"</p>
+
+<p>"You must see her with all her sails set, a-scudding before the breeze,
+Master Gordon," said George, overtaking us. "I reckon there's not a
+craft of her size that would beat her for speed."</p>
+
+<p>"Can you do the sails?" my cousin asked me, regardless of nautical
+phraseology.</p>
+
+<p>"Master Willie! he knows as much as a sailor born about reefing and
+unreefing the sails," said George, answering for me.</p>
+
+<p>"Then please do let us sail her at once. I do long to see her on the
+water," begged Aleck.</p>
+
+<p>And accordingly we two sat down, overlooked by George, who, from a
+delicate desire to show off my capacity to manage the sails alone,
+abstained from offering any help; and, drawing the boat up between us on
+the beach, set the sails, and then proceeded to launch her upon the
+clear deep water of the Cove.</p>
+
+<p>"This way now," I said to my cousin, when we saw that the breeze was
+filling the sails, and the "Fair Alice" was making her way out towards
+the mouth of the Cove. "Come and see my harbour bar;" and springing
+quickly from rock to rock, and running where there was sand, I guided my
+cousin to the entrance of the Cove, which was very narrow in proportion
+to the width and extent of the inlet. On each side of it there was a low
+stake strongly fastened into the rock, and from stake to stake a rope
+was stretched: it was long enough to lie along the bottom of the
+ground, and so offer no impediment to the boats; but when I was sailing
+my vessel in the Cove, and the tide was in, it was always stretched more
+tightly, so as to prevent the possibility of my little ship escaping
+from me into the wide sea.</p>
+
+<p>"See," I said, "I have only to slip this ring over the stake, and then I
+can feel quite sure the 'Fair Alice' is safe. She can't get past my
+harbour bar."</p>
+
+<p>In the meantime the little yacht had kept her course nearly to the
+entrance of the Cove, but a sudden shifting of the wind landed her on
+the opposite side, and I had to make my way all round to get her off
+again. Aleck remained on his side of the Cove, and we amused ourselves
+for some time in contriving to get the little boat to sail backwards and
+forwards, tacking gradually down to the boat-house.</p>
+
+<p>My cousin was so absorbed in the enjoyment of sailing the "Fair Alice,"
+that he was less eager about getting into our own boat for a sail than
+at first. But by-and-by, when we were dancing over the waves outside the
+Cove, he became quite wild with delight, and enjoyed himself, I verily
+believe, as much as is possible for a free, happy, eager boy; and that
+is saying a great deal. Of course I caught the infection from him,
+finding a fresh delight in my ordinary amusements through having a
+companion to share them; and, truly, a merrier boat's crew than we made
+on that whole holiday morning could not have been found.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a name="illus_061" id="illus_061"></a>
+<img src="images/illus_061.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<h3>SAILING THE "FAIR ALICE."</h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+
+<p>Aleck's love for the sea was an absorbing passion; and it quite amused
+me to hear all the questions he kept putting to old George&mdash;as, for
+instance, how old he was when he went to sea; how long before he went up
+the mast; how they reefed the top-sails in his vessel, and which of the
+ship's company did it in a gale; together with many other inquiries,
+showing a degree of technical knowledge that perfectly overwhelmed me,
+and which, he explained to us, was extracted from "The Cadet's Manual,"
+and a big book on "The Art of Navigation" which they had at home.</p>
+
+<p>I almost wished my cousin did not know quite so much; it made me feel as
+though the ten months were a longer and more important period than I had
+admitted to myself. But it was a relief, when the oars were called into
+action on our way in, to find that he could not row, whereas I had
+handled an oar almost as soon as I gave up a rattle; and, as I showed
+off my best feathering, I felt we were equal again.</p>
+
+<p>"How is it you can't row, sir, when you know so much about it?" asked
+Groves.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, there are only streams and the river at my home in Scotland,"
+explained Aleck. "We're up amongst the hills, you know. I have often
+fished, but I've scarcely ever been in a boat before, except when we've
+been travelling; and then it was going out to the steamer, and I
+mightn't do anything but sit still. It was famous, though, in the
+steamer," continued Aleck, kindling with the recollection of his
+journey. "I went down, and saw how the engine worked; and helped the man
+at the wheel; and learned about the compass&mdash;at least, I knew the points
+before, but it was different seeing how to steer by it. Only I liked the
+stoker the best. I had just gone down again with him to the engine-room,
+to see the engine stopped, and pulled off my jacket because it was so
+hot; and then the steam was let off, and made such a noise! Just when
+there was all the noise of the steam, I heard somebody shouting my name,
+and calling so loudly to me that I ran up to the deck at once. I had
+quite forgotten about not having my jacket on, and I believe my face had
+got blacked&mdash;it was, I know, when we got on shore. Everybody laughed at
+me; only mamma was poorly and frightened&mdash;she thought I had tumbled
+overboard. I suppose I oughtn't to have gone down just then, for that
+was the place where we were to go on shore," Aleck added, somewhat
+thoughtfully, remembering how very white was the face to which his own
+blackened one had been pressed.</p>
+
+<p>By this time we were re-entering the Cove.</p>
+
+<p>"You'll only be just in time for your dinner, young gentlemen," said
+George, as we drew in towards the landing-place; "I reckon it won't come
+a minute before you're ready for it."</p>
+
+<p>"You'll teach me to row, will you not, as soon as possible?" said my
+cousin, as we parted. "I should like to begin at once, please."</p>
+
+<p>"So soon as you like, sir. Master Willie, you mustn't be long in
+bringing down your cousin."</p>
+
+<p>Thus saying, Groves took his way to the lodge, and Aleck and I clambered
+quickly up the Zig-zag, reaching home in time to appear, with smooth
+hair, and rosy cheeks, and keen appetites, at the luncheon-table.</p>
+
+<p>Aleck was in wild spirits, and confided to me that he didn't think he
+had ever enjoyed himself so much before.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV"></a>CHAPTER IV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE RIDE TO STAVEMOOR.</h3>
+
+
+<p>A month after Aleck's arrival at Braycombe, it seemed so perfectly
+natural to have him with us&mdash;he had fitted so completely into the
+position of companion, play-fellow, school-fellow, brother&mdash;that I could
+scarcely fancy how it felt before he came.</p>
+
+<p>My uncle and aunt had left us after a fortnight's visit, and were now on
+the Continent. The parting was hard work&mdash;harder, I fancy, to them than
+to him, for boys soon get over trouble, whereas it was plain to see in
+my aunt's wistful eyes that it was a sore trial to her to leave her
+child behind. I believe that she did not anticipate, in as sanguine a
+spirit as did her husband, the happy meeting again that was talked of
+for the spring, after a winter in Madeira.</p>
+
+<p>It was a subject of great thankfulness, to both my uncle and aunt, that
+Aleck and I had formed such a friendship for each other. They had
+scarcely driven from the door, and Aleck's eyes were still wet with
+tears, when he told me that he did not think he could be so happy
+anywhere away from his papa and mamma as at Braycombe, with me for his
+companion; and I answered by assuring him I should never be happy again
+if he were to go away from me.</p>
+
+<p>We soon settled down into our school-room occupations together. Mr.
+Glengelly, who used to come three times in the week, now came daily,
+staying for the whole morning, and leaving us always lessons to prepare
+for the next day. Aleck and I spent almost the whole of our play-time
+down at the Cove; his passionate enjoyment of everything connected with
+the sea continuing in full force, whilst two or three times every week
+we had walks, rides, or drives with one or both of my parents.</p>
+
+<p>Aleck could ride beautifully, having been accustomed to it at his own
+home, and I was delighted to lend him my pony from time to time&mdash;more
+ready at first, if the truth is to be told, than afterwards. He also
+learned to row, though not so quickly nor so easily as I should have
+expected; and feathering remained an impossible mystery to him, being,
+as he said, more than could be expected from his clumsy fingers.</p>
+
+<p>In this one point&mdash;that of being unskilful in the use of his
+hands&mdash;Aleck was below the mark; in lessons he was far my superior,
+being, as I soon found, more than his year ahead of me. But, oddly
+enough, as it seemed to me, it was always in matters requiring skilled
+fingers that he was anxious to excel. He was never tired of playing at
+sailing the "Fair Alice," but would daily, before we launched her,
+examine afresh all the different parts of the little vessel, and sigh
+over the neatness of their workmanship, and ask himself and myself
+whether it were possible he should ever be able to make a ship like it.
+Various abortive attempts were to be seen in our play-room&mdash;pieces of
+wood cut, and shaped, and thrown away in disgust; but as yet he made no
+progress towards anything like skill in carpentry. The old play-boat of
+mine which I had given, to him afforded very little pleasure: it was not
+like a real vessel. Having seen the "Fair Alice," anything that fell
+short of it gave him no satisfaction. It added greatly to the pleasure
+which I had always felt in this possession, to see how ardently my
+cousin admired it, and how much he thought of the title of <i>captain</i>,
+which, as owner, had been playfully adjudged to me.</p>
+
+<p>I scarcely know when it was that the feeling first began to steal over
+me that I was not always quite so glad as I had been at first that my
+cousin was living with us. It was an unworthy feeling, and I felt
+ashamed to confess it to myself; but there it was, and I discovered it
+at last.</p>
+
+<p>Perhaps it was because of his quickness at lessons; perhaps because,
+from time to time in his turn, enjoyments which could not be shared by
+both were permitted to him&mdash;I had only the half, where before I should
+have had the whole; perhaps it was all this together, combined with the
+secret evils I had not hitherto found out in my own heart and
+disposition; but the result was, that I had now and then such miserable
+moments of being angry, and provoked, and unhappy, not because my cousin
+had done anything unkind, but simply because he had, in some
+unintentional manner, interfered with my pleasure, that I was ready to
+wish I had never had a cousin, or that he had never come to Braycombe.</p>
+
+<p>It is not to be supposed that this was my settled, constant state of
+mind. Far from it. In general, we two boys were as frisky, and merry,
+and happy with each other, as boys could be; but these dark feelings
+came and went, and came and went, until I began to be less surprised at
+them than when I first found them out. For some time my mother had no
+idea of their existence. To all outward appearance we were just as we
+had been in the early days of our friendship; and if I did not so often
+enlarge upon the happiness of having Aleck to live with me, I know now
+that she only put it down to the novelty of the companionship wearing
+off. I remember quite distinctly the first time that she noticed some
+little indication of the secret mischief that was going on. It was the
+time of afternoon preparation of lessons for the following morning, and
+I was sitting with my books before me at the school-room table, writing
+a Latin exercise; or perhaps it would be more correct to say, <i>not</i>
+writing my Latin exercise, for my pen had stopped half-way to the
+ink-bottle, and my chin was resting on my left hand and my elbow on the
+table, and I was indulging uninterruptedly in my own reflections, when
+the door opened, and my mother entered the room.</p>
+
+<p>"Where's Aleck?" was her first inquiry, as she looked round and saw that
+I was alone.</p>
+
+<p>"He's been gone five minutes," I replied, without raising my eyes, and
+in a tone which I meant to convey&mdash;and, I am aware, did convey&mdash;that I
+was in no pleasant mood.</p>
+
+<p>"How's that?" rejoined my mother, taking no notice of my manner. "Aleck
+was told not to leave the school-room until his lessons were finished.
+He knows my rule, and is not generally disobedient. I must go and see
+about him. Where is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"In his room, I suppose"&mdash;still in my former sulky manner; and, without
+further words, my mother left the room, and went in search of my
+cousin. I presently heard her voice calling to him at the foot of the
+stair-case leading to our rooms, and Aleck's voice more distantly
+replying to her. As, however, he did not immediately appear, I heard
+afterwards that she had gone up-stairs, and found him pulling down his
+sleeves and shaking off pieces of wood, and generally endeavouring to
+render his appearance respectable; which was made the more difficult as,
+in the course of his operations, he had dipped his elbow in the
+glue-pot, and was considerably embarrassed by the fringe of shavings
+which he was unable to detach.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm coming as fast as I can, auntie," he said, pulling at the shavings,
+and giving himself a rub with a duster in hopes that would make him
+right.</p>
+
+<p>"But, Aleck, how is it you're not in the school-room?" said my mother.
+"I have just seen Willie there alone. You know the rule about not
+leaving until lessons are finished. I fear that you have been tempted
+away too soon by your ship-building tastes."</p>
+
+<p>"Did not Willie tell you I had finished my lessons?" said Aleck,
+quickly. "Oh, auntie, I would not have left before."</p>
+
+<p>"Really finished, Aleck? Take care to be quite honest with yourself, for
+indeed you've had but short time."</p>
+
+<p>"Really and truly, auntie. I tried to be very quick to-day, because I do
+so want to get on with this last ship I've begun. It seems coming more
+like than the others. See, the stern is very like a real one."</p>
+
+<p>My mother carefully inspected the unshapely block upon which my cousin
+was at work, gave him a word or two of advice upon the subject, and came
+down-stairs again to me; having decided in her own mind, as she
+afterwards told me, to be present the next morning when Mr. Glengelly
+came, and notice whether Aleck's work had been thoroughly prepared.</p>
+
+<p>"How soon shall you have finished, my child?" she said, laying her hand
+softly on my shoulder, and bending down to inspect my writing. "Let me
+see what there is to be done."</p>
+
+<p>"This exercise, and the verb to be learned, and my sum"&mdash;very grumpily.</p>
+
+<p>"And how much have you done already?"</p>
+
+<p>"Part of the exercise&mdash;not quite half; and I'm doing the verb now; and
+the sum is finished, all but the proving."</p>
+
+<p>My lip was quivering as I completed the list of what I had achieved, and
+I was as nearly bursting into tears as possible.</p>
+
+<p>My mother's loving, pleasant way staved off the sulky fit, however.</p>
+
+<p>"These lessons begun, and not one of them finished off!" she exclaimed.
+"Let us see how long they will take you. First the exercise, we will
+allow a quarter of an hour for that; five minutes will prove your sum;
+and the verb, an old one you say and very nearly perfect, two minutes
+for that: less than twenty-five minutes, Willie, and you will be so
+perfectly prepared that you will be longing for ten o'clock to-morrow,
+and Mr. Glengelly to come, all the rest of the evening."</p>
+
+<p>I could not help laughing at the notion of my pining for Mr. Glengelly's
+arrival, and a laugh is an excellent stepping-stone out of the sulks. My
+mother put her watch on the table, and stayed in the room, helping me by
+quiet sympathizing superintendence, and I set to work with such
+earnestness that I had completed my tasks in twenty minutes, and was off
+to the play-room without a trace of my wrong temper, as eager to join my
+cousin in the carpentry as if nothing had gone wrong between us, and
+only rejoicing that my lessons were over at last, without troubling
+myself to remember that the trial of Aleck's being so much quicker than
+myself at his studies was sure to recur again and again, and that,
+unless my dislike to his superiority could be conquered and stamped out,
+I should soon find every-day trouble in my every-day work.</p>
+
+<p>And in truth the conquering and stamping out of such feelings as these
+is no easy task. It is unquestionably a real trial to find that work
+which takes you an hour's hard labour can be accomplished by your
+companion in not much more than half the time; that even though the
+lessons are apportioned so as to give him the heavier burden, he can
+always dispose of the heavier more readily than you can of the lighter.
+In my own case, Aleck was often very good-natured, and would linger in
+<i>his</i> work to give me a help in <i>mine</i>; or purposely keep pace with me,
+so that we might go out to play together. But this was not always the
+way; when he was very eagerly engaged in any play-time occupation, he
+would bend all his energies to getting his tasks finished off quickly,
+and then hurry away, without appearing in the least troubled that I
+could not accompany him. Upon which occasions I thought him selfish and
+unfeeling, and was inclined not a little to regret that he had ever come
+to Braycombe.</p>
+
+<p>The worst of it was, that though I knew I was wrong, I could not muster
+courage to speak to either of my parents about it; no, not even in that
+moment of deepest confidence when my mother looked in to wish me
+good-night before I went to sleep, and sat, as she was wont to do, upon
+my bed talking to me about the various things which had happened during
+the day.</p>
+
+<p>Many a time, on such occasions, I thought of telling her my troubles,
+but was afraid lest she should think me very naughty; so I tried at last
+to persuade myself there was not much to tell after all.</p>
+
+<p>Half an hour spent with us in the school-room the next morning convinced
+my mother that Aleck's work had been well done. I fancy that she watched
+me a little closely for a few days, but I happened to be specially
+prosperous in my lessons, and nothing occurred to disturb my serenity,
+so that she dismissed after a time the anxiety which had begun to arise
+in her mind concerning me.</p>
+
+<p>As for Aleck, he had no notion of the real state of things. I am sure he
+must have thought me selfish and cross very often, but almost as often
+he would win me into good temper again; and his own temperament was
+naturally so bright and sunshiny, that trouble never seemed to remain
+long with him.</p>
+
+<p>It was about a fortnight later that I was sitting, after breakfast, in
+my father's study doing my arithmetic. Our school-room adjoined the
+study, and it was not an unfrequent arrangement, that whilst Aleck did
+his construing with Mr. Glengelly, I should take in my slate to my
+father's room and do my sums. I fancy he liked to have me with him; for
+whenever he was at home he would look up with quite a pleased expression
+when, after knocking at the door, I appeared with my slate and made the
+usual inquiry whether I should disturb him if I came in just then; and
+would tell me that I never disturbed him, and bid me show him my sum
+before I returned to the school-room, when he had always some pleasant
+remark to make upon it.</p>
+
+<p>I then was sitting on my favourite seat in the window working at
+compound division, when my mother came into the room.</p>
+
+<p>"I've been thinking," she said to my father, "that it's a pity both the
+boys should not go with you to Stavemoor: if you could manage without
+Rickson, or let him ride one of the carriage horses, I think you might
+trust Aleck on the gray."</p>
+
+<p>I listened to every word, my pencil going slowly and more slowly, whilst
+I put down three times nine, twenty-seven&mdash;two, carry seven; and was
+hopelessly wrong afterwards in consequence. This ride to Stavemoor was a
+special pleasure in prospect. Both Aleck and I had wanted to go; but the
+pony being mine, I had taken it as a matter of course that I should be
+the one chosen, and my cousin had not thought of questioning my rights.
+But now to hear my mother quietly proposing, not only that Aleck should
+go, but that he should ride the gray&mdash;it was a sore trial to my
+feelings: that gray had for months been the object of my ambition, but I
+had not been thought a good enough rider to be trusted, and now that my
+cousin should be thus promoted was hard to bear.</p>
+
+<p>The colour mounted to my face when I heard the proposition, and then my
+father's answer:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I am not sure about it; and yet the boy is at home in the saddle, and
+has a firm seat. I'll speak to Rickson. Aleck's been looking pale of
+late, and I think more rides than he can get when there's only the pony
+between the two boys, would do him good."</p>
+
+<p>"Papa," I said, with quivering lip and reproachful voice, "you've never
+let <i>me</i> ride the gray. It's always Aleck now&mdash;he gets everything, it
+doesn't seem to matter about me."</p>
+
+<p>My father gave one quick glance of surprise and consternation at my
+mother, and then turned to me:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Willie! my own little Willie!" he said, pausing as if for an
+explanation, and putting out his hand in a manner that meant I was to
+come to his side, which I did rather slowly.</p>
+
+<p>"I've so often asked you to let me ride the gray, papa, and you've never
+allowed it, and now you're going to let Aleck. I don't want to go to
+Stavemoor&mdash;Aleck may have the pony; I wish I had said so at first; I
+don't want to ride the pony, and have him on the gray." And thereupon,
+almost frightened by the evident distress my sentiments had occasioned,
+I burst into a passionate fit of crying, which permitted only a few more
+broken words to the effect that I wished Aleck had never come to
+Braycombe; I hated his being there; and that my parents were very unkind
+to care for him more than they did for me.</p>
+
+<p>My father held me there at his side whilst I sobbed and cried as if some
+tremendous calamity had overtaken me. I knew without looking up, which I
+was ashamed to do, that his eyes were resting upon me with an expression
+of sad surprise; and the silence became perfectly unbearable. He spoke
+at last:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"My poor little Willie," he said, "what sad feelings you have allowed to
+creep into your heart! how unhappy they will make you! You have said
+very wrong words, my child, and I cannot tell you how much pain you have
+caused to me and your mamma. I hope that you will be very sorry
+by-and-by; but you know, Willie, being sorry will not undo your fault,
+nor take away the envious feelings which you have allowed to spring up
+within you; and unless such feelings as these are conquered you will be
+an unhappy little boy, and grow up to be an unhappy man. Willie," he
+added, after another pause only interrupted by my struggling sobs at
+longer intervals than at first, "you know, my child, whose strength you
+will need to help you in the battle: you are but a weak little boy, and
+cannot help yourself; you must pray for the help of God's Holy Spirit,
+or else you will never conquer these wrong feelings."</p>
+
+<p>I hung my head, and remained silent.</p>
+
+<p>"I trust Aleck knows nothing of all this," resumed my father. "We have
+promised to care for him as though he belonged to us. I will not allow
+him to feel that he is disliked by the boy who promised to love him."</p>
+
+<p>"No, papa," I put in, for my temper had well-nigh expended itself; "I
+do like him still&mdash;rather&mdash;only not always. I like him very much
+sometimes: I think now I'm very glad he came&mdash;only I don't like his
+having things that I mayn't have."</p>
+
+<p>"That, Willie," answered my father, "must be left to me to decide. I
+shall miss my little boy very much this afternoon; but I cannot allow
+you to come to Stavemoor with me to-day, after all that has passed."</p>
+
+<p>There was just this ray of comfort in the announcement, that at least
+Aleck would not on this particular occasion gain the object of my
+ambition.</p>
+
+<p>"Is Aleck to ride my pony, then?" I inquired, half ashamed of myself for
+asking.</p>
+
+<p>The quick, decided manner, in which my father withdrew the arm he held
+around me, and answered,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly not, unless I find Rickson thinks the gray would be unsafe,"
+made me feel more unhappy than ever; and it was with a sorrowful heart
+that I obeyed a summons to the school-room brought in at that moment by
+my cousin, and showed up my incorrect and unfinished sum to Mr.
+Glengelly.</p>
+
+<p>I suppose that he saw something had gone wrong with me, by my
+appearance; he was certainly more merciful than usual over my
+shortcomings in arithmetic, and the lesson-time went by so pleasantly
+that I was quite in good humour by the time it ended, and went out in
+restored spirits for the half hour's exercise which preceded our dinner,
+determining that, the first moment I could see my father, I would tell
+him I was sorry, revoke what I had said about Aleck, and ride my pony to
+Stavemoor.</p>
+
+<p>In furtherance of these views, I ran round by the stables, and finding
+that only Peter the Great and the gray had been ordered, told Rickson in
+confidence that I had said to my father in the morning I would rather
+not ride; but, having changed my mind since then, he was to be sure and
+be ready to send round the pony as well.</p>
+
+<p>Aleck, in the meantime, heard of the treat in store for him, and was
+greatly elated, chattering briskly during dinner about the expedition,
+without any idea that I was likely to be left behind.</p>
+
+<p>My father was not a great luncheon eater, and when very busy, would
+often only have a glass of wine and a biscuit sent into the study,
+instead of joining us at table. Finding this was to be the case on the
+present occasion, I asked leave to carry in the tray, and was permitted
+to do so after I had finished my own dinner.</p>
+
+<p>My father was at his writing, and looked up when he saw me, making a
+place amongst his papers at the same time for the tray.</p>
+
+<p>"Papa," I said, when I had put it down, "I'm sorry for what I said this
+morning. I don't mind Aleck's riding the gray; and please I should like
+to ride my own pony. I saw Rickson before dinner, and told him I had
+changed my mind, and that very likely the pony would be wanted."</p>
+
+<p>My father answered, in a quiet, grave voice: "You might have spared
+yourself the trouble, Willie, of speaking to Rickson, for, though I'm
+sorry to leave you behind, I cannot allow you the pleasure of the ride
+to Stavemoor this afternoon."</p>
+
+<p>"But, papa," I pleaded, "you always forgive me when I say I am sorry."</p>
+
+<p>"And I do not say now that I will not <i>forgive</i> the wrong things you
+said this morning," he answered; "but I cannot let your conduct pass
+without punishment. You must remember, my child," he added, drawing me
+towards him, "that <i>forgiving</i> and <i>not punishing</i> are very different
+things. Do you remember when God forgave David his sin, yet He punished
+him by the death of his son. And it would be contrary to His commands if
+Christian parents were to allow their children's faults to be
+<i>unpunished</i>, although it is a Christian duty to exercise a <i>forgiving
+spirit</i>."</p>
+
+<p>The practical result of this statement was what I thought of most; it
+was clear to my mind that the ride to Stavemoor had to be given up, and
+my brow grew cloudy.</p>
+
+<p>"Then, papa," I said, poutingly, "I mayn't go with you this afternoon?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly not, Willie," very decidedly; "you will spend one hour, from
+the time we start, in your own room; and I trust that you will remember
+during that time&mdash;<i>if you are</i> really sorry&mdash;that mine is not the only
+forgiveness you have to seek."</p>
+
+<p>"Aleck's, papa?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, not Aleck's; I hope he will never have an idea of all the wrong
+feelings you have entertained towards him."</p>
+
+<p>"You mean God's forgiveness," I said, more seriously; for that was a
+name never to be pronounced without deep reverence.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Willie; don't forget, my child, that the youngest as well as the
+oldest of us has need to seek the Fountain opened for all uncleanness.
+No repentance will wash us clean. You must ask, through the Lord Jesus,
+not only that your sins may be forgiven, but that you may also have
+strength to do better for the future. You may go now. Remember what I
+said about the hour in your own room."</p>
+
+<p>I departed accordingly, passing Aleck in the passage all ready and
+equipped for his ride. Brushing past him, without giving an answer to
+his inquiry whether I was going to get ready, I ran quickly up-stairs to
+my own room, shut the door, and burst into tears.</p>
+
+<p>By-and-by I heard the horses coming round; then I wiped my eyes, and
+kneeling upon a chair at the window, where I could not be seen, watched
+all the proceedings.</p>
+
+<p>Rickson, faithful to my interests, had, I perceived, brought up the pony
+ready saddled. I almost hoped that Aleck would have had it after all.
+But no; I saw him in another moment mounted upon the gray, which,
+apparently conscious of a lighter weight than usual, began shaking its
+head, and showing off its mettle. Rickson held it firmly. "So-ho!
+so-ho!" I heard him saying. "Ease her a bit, Master Gordon; ease her
+mouth; there&mdash;there&mdash;so-ho!"</p>
+
+<p>Aleck held the reins firmly, and his ringing voice came up cheerily
+through the air.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm not a bit afraid, thank you, Uncle Grant."</p>
+
+<p>My father in the meantime mounted Peter the Great; and before starting I
+saw the stable-boy give him a leading rein, which he put into his
+pocket, for future use I mentally decided, in case Aleck should have
+difficulty in managing the gray. But no such difficulty occurred within
+the range of my observation. When Rickson removed his hand from the
+bridle she bounded off rather friskily; but in another moment Aleck had
+reined her in, and was displaying such ready ease in the management of
+his steed, that it was clear my father's confidence in his horsemanship
+was justified.</p>
+
+<p>As I turned round from the window I heard my mother's soft footstep in
+the passage, and in another moment she had entered my room. She had her
+walking things on, and a little basket in her hand, well known to me as
+invariably containing jellies, puddings, or packets of tea for some of
+the many invalids to whom my mother was as an angel of mercy. She
+stopped only for two or three minutes, to tell me how thankful she was
+to know I had felt sorry for my behaviour in the morning, and how
+grieved to have to leave me at home when she would have liked me to have
+been out riding with my father, or walking with her; and then, after
+some further words of monition, she left me to my solitary hour's watch,
+and I could see her taking her way down the drive, and turning off
+through the wood, until the last flutter of her blue ribbons was lost in
+the distance. Then I bethought me of seeing how much longer I had to
+spend in my own room, and, looking at the clock-tower over the stables,
+found it was scarcely more than three o'clock. I could not feel free
+until a quarter to four, and the time began to feel very long and
+wearisome.</p>
+
+<p>In general, I was a boy of manifold resources, and every moment of my
+leisure time seemed too short for the many purposes to which I would
+willingly have applied it. But on this particular afternoon I seemed to
+weary of everything. Even my last new book of fairy stories failed to
+interest me. I felt as if, instead of fancying myself the hero of the
+tale, I was perpetually being compared, by my own conscience, to the
+unamiable characters&mdash;Cinderella's sisters, for instance, or the elder
+of the two princes who lived in a country long ago and nowhere in
+particular; elder brothers being in fairy tales, as all true
+connoisseurs are aware, jealous, cruel, and sure to come to a bad end;
+whilst the younger brothers are persecuted, forgiving, and finally
+triumphant, marrying disenchanted princesses, and living happy ever
+after. I threw aside my fairy book, and sought for some other means of
+amusement in a repository of odds and ends, established in a corner of
+the room by the housemaid, whose efforts to observe order in disorder
+were most praiseworthy. There I was glad to discover a piece of
+willow-bough stripped of its twigs, and in course of preparation for the
+manufacture of a bow. Immediately I set myself to adjusting a piece of
+string to it, and completing its construction. This occupation was far
+more engrossing than the reading had proved; and almost sooner than I
+had expected, the three-quarters chime of the clock proclaimed my
+liberation. I seized my garden hat, ran down-stairs, and sped out upon
+the lawn, determined to feel very merry, and to enjoy trying my
+newly-made bow as much as possible. It was annoying that Frisk had gone
+with the horses&mdash;it made me feel more lonely not to have him to play
+with; but still, my hour's imprisonment being over, I thought I could
+find plenty of amusement. So I began firing away certain home-made
+arrows, to which my mother's loving fingers had carefully fastened
+feathers; putting up a flower-pot on a stand as a mark, and trying to
+hit it. But the arrows did not go very far after all, and I leant down
+upon the bow and tightened the string, and then tightened it again,
+until there was a sudden snap, and a collapse&mdash;it had broken in two
+pieces! I threw the bow aside in disgust, and went off into the
+shrubbery, and then down the carriage drive, hoping to meet my mother;
+but she happened to be detained that afternoon at one of the cottages
+where she was visiting, and missed her usual time for returning. Feeling
+very dreary and disconsolate, I finally wandered back again into the
+house, and hung about in the different rooms in a listless, dissatisfied
+mood, until, at about half past five, I could hear the rapid tread of
+horses' feet, and in another moment my father and Aleck cantered up to
+the door. Frisk was flourishing about in his usual style, and found me
+out in a moment, jumping up upon my shoulders, and licking my hands, and
+expressing in perfectly comprehensible language his regret that I had
+not been of the party, and his pleasure in seeing me again.</p>
+
+<p>Aleck was in a high state of spirits, triumphant at having proved
+himself sufficient of a horseman to manage the gray, and delighted with
+all the incidents of the expedition. He did not know the reason of my
+having stayed at home; but told me how sorry he was I had not been with
+them, and tumultuously recounted the various pleasures he had enjoyed.</p>
+
+<p>"See, I've got lots of shells," he said, "and several beautiful
+madrepores. You must have some of them. They'd had a wedding, too, and
+we had to eat some of the bride-cake, and drink their health, and&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>But Aleck's enumeration did not proceed further, for I think my father
+perceived how keenly I was feeling the contrast between his joyous
+excitement and my own very dreary heaviness of heart, and called to me
+to come to the study with him, and put away his riding whip. So I gladly
+turned away from my cousin, and followed my father to his room.</p>
+
+<p>To some children, the study, library, or whatever other room is
+consecrated to the use of the head of the family, is a sort of dreadful
+and solemn place, generally closed to them, but opening from time to
+time as a court of justice, to which they are brought when their
+misdemeanours have exceeded usual bounds, and are considered to require
+severer measures than are within the province of the lesser
+authorities. Very alarming, in consequence, is the summons when it
+comes.</p>
+
+<p>With me, however, the case was happily very different; the study was
+associated with countless hours of happy intercourse with a father whose
+very countenance was beaming with love. Times of reproof and punishment
+there had been also, but the returning happiness of forgiveness, the
+loving words of advice, the kind and constant sympathy, I never failed
+to find from him, made me look upon an invitation to his room as the
+best thing that could happen to me, whether I was happy or in trouble.</p>
+
+<p>"My poor little Willie," he said, sitting down almost immediately, and
+drawing me towards himself; "have you been very sorrowful?"</p>
+
+<p>I hid my face on his shoulder, and sobbed out that I was quite
+miserable.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you thought what it is that has made your day so sad, Willie?" he
+asked, kindly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, papa," I answered between my sobs; "I wasn't allowed to go to
+Stavemoor, and I was so unhappy in my own room all alone, and&mdash;and&mdash;I
+broke my bow just after I had finished making it&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"But the beginning of all this unhappiness, Willie&mdash;quite the
+beginning?"</p>
+
+<p>"Aleck's having the gray, papa," I said. "I think that was quite the
+beginning."</p>
+
+<p>"So do I think so, my child," rejoined my father; "or rather, the wrong
+feelings to which this gave rise. And now consider, Willie, how wrong
+and ungrateful you have been, to let this grow up into such a trouble.
+Just think of all to-day's mercies: your home, your loving papa and
+mamma, all the comforts that so many little boys are without; and then,
+besides all these, a pleasant excursion planned to give you special
+pleasure on your half holiday. And, in the midst of all these blessings,
+instead of being thankful and happy, you are suddenly overwhelmed, as
+though by a great misfortune; not because any of your enjoyments are to
+be diminished, but because another is to have a pleasure which you think
+greater."</p>
+
+<p>My father paused for a moment, and I could not help feeling that,
+according to his way of putting it, I certainly had been both naughty
+and foolish: still, it occurred to me that being happy was not in itself
+possible at all times; and that, similarly, if I were unhappy, I was
+unhappy, not by choice, but because it was not in my power to feel
+otherwise. I thought this, not indeed in words, or in any semblance of
+coherent argument, but in a sort of confused perplexity, which was only
+partly represented by my reply to my father:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Papa, I couldn't help feeling unhappy when I heard you talking about
+Aleck's going. I couldn't make myself feel happy."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah, Willie, you've come to the root of the matter now," he
+answered;&mdash;"'<i>couldn't make myself</i> feel happy!' That is just it,
+Willie; a wrong feeling of envy came into your heart&mdash;you know it was a
+wrong feeling that feeling of dislike that another should be happy, so I
+need not waste time in proving it to you; and you could not chase the
+enemy from your own heart, so, without ever remembering that there is
+One who promises to help all who cry to Him for help, and who is
+stronger than the strong man armed, you give in at once to the enemy;
+and as you couldn't help yourself, came out of the battle conquered and
+vanquished."</p>
+
+<p>I hung my head down, feeling I had been a coward. "I'm so sorry, papa,"
+I whispered.</p>
+
+<p>"I thought you would be ere long, my child," he said. "I hope you used
+the time in your room partly as I intended."</p>
+
+<p>I knew I hadn't, and felt still more ashamed of myself, but said
+nothing; I was never required to mention whether I had followed my
+parents' advice on such occasions, they were so fearful of making me a
+hypocrite.</p>
+
+<p>"Our heavenly Father will have forgiven you all your fault, if you have
+sought forgiveness through Jesus Christ; and now your earthly father is
+quite ready to forgive also, as you seem really sorry."</p>
+
+<p>My father gave me a kiss, and I threw my arms around his neck, and felt
+the loneliness and sadness of the day all over. My mother came in a few
+moments later, and joined us in the study, and with her loving, gentle
+words, completed my happiness in being forgiven and received back again
+into my usual position.</p>
+
+<p>She did not forget all that had passed, however. I found that out at our
+Bible readings; for almost the very next day she took for her subject
+with us boys, the sin of envy and its consequences, and the best means
+of conquering it. I can remember to this hour the different
+illustrations&mdash;Cain, and Saul, and the blood-thirsty Pharisees on the
+one side; and Moses, and David, and Jonathan, and Paul, on the other;
+and the verses we found out in Proverbs and in the Epistles: they
+perhaps did me some good at the time, but my heart was not really
+touched. I had not found out, in my own little personal experience, what
+my father meant by the <i>Fountain opened for all uncleanness</i>, and there
+were bitter but necessary lessons still in store for me.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V"></a>CHAPTER V.</h2>
+
+<h3>SHIP-BUILDING.</h3>
+
+
+<p>My story would grow too long were I to tell of all the employments,
+amusements, and adventures, which made the months fly rapidly by with us
+boys that summer and autumn long ago at Braycombe.</p>
+
+<p>My cousin's companionship made me more than usually diligent in my
+studies, and more than usually eager in my amusements; whilst the
+watchful care of my parents seemed to screen me from many of the minor
+trials and temptations which might otherwise have rendered me less happy
+than I had been in former days.</p>
+
+<p>I can remember now with admiration, how carefully they measured out
+even-handed justice to my cousin and myself. They never seemed to forget
+that they had promised Aleck should be as my brother, therefore every
+arrangement took us equally into account. And although the meanness of
+envy was held by them to be not only sinful, but contemptible, they were
+quite alive to the keen sense of justice which is born with most
+children, and would never violate it by the exercise of a partiality too
+common amongst those who have the charge of the young, either with the
+object of giving me as their child some special pleasure, or Aleck as
+our visitor some special indulgence.</p>
+
+<p>It was not long after the Stavemoor expedition that I was allowed to try
+my horsemanship by mounting the gray. Rickson was on the alert; but had
+it not been for his interposition, my equestrian pursuits would have
+come to a very disastrous ending. I was convinced against my will of the
+wisdom of my father's decision, that I should for the present be content
+with my pony; relying, for consolation, on his promise that, before very
+long, I should learn to manage the more spirited animal. In the meantime
+I no longer felt it a trouble that my cousin's superior skill in this
+respect should be recognized.</p>
+
+<p>Aleck seemed to care less about the riding than I did. His passion for
+the sea&mdash;for boats, sea-weeds, stones, caves, and cliffs, everything
+directly and indirectly belonging to the sea&mdash;grew and strengthened upon
+him. His special ambition was to succeed in constructing a rival to the
+"Fair Alice;" but although honourable scars on his fingers bore witness
+to the industry with which he plied his tools, his attempts at
+ship-building had hitherto proved signal failures. I was more successful
+in my carpentry than he was, and it was quite a pleasure to me to give
+him all the help I could. Between us we at last produced something more
+resembling a ship than all former attempts, and we rushed eagerly down
+to the Cove one bright September afternoon, impatient for the launch.</p>
+
+<p>Aleck and I had the Cove all to ourselves: old George had not been with
+us so much as usual for weeks past; there were, indeed, few days we did
+not see him, but he did not stay with us all through our play-time; he
+would come and go, and come and go, until we boys would take to teasing
+him with questions as to what it could be that kept him so much
+occupied. I had my own private suspicions, and communicated them to
+Aleck; but old George would throw no light upon the subject.</p>
+
+<p>I had good reason for remembering that the 20th of September, now
+drawing near, was my parents' wedding-day, my mother's birth-day, and
+almost the greatest festival in the year to us at Braycombe. Old George,
+who lay in wait for opportunities of giving me presents, always looked
+upon this anniversary as one that would admit of no questioning, and
+more than once the offering to me&mdash;by which he meant to show his love to
+my parents&mdash;had been the result of many a long hour's secret work. The
+"Fair Alice" had been my present on the preceding year, and I had dim
+suspicions&mdash;built upon a certain hasty glance into a little room called
+the work-shop at the back of the lodge&mdash;that something else was even now
+in course of construction, which I half suspected to be a schooner-yacht
+with two masts, such as I had more than once expressed a wish to
+possess. But George was impenetrable, and kept the work-shop closely
+bolted, so I had to nurse my curiosity until the 20th. It was the day
+before this great occasion that Aleck and I ran down to launch our boat,
+as before-mentioned.</p>
+
+<p>Alas! we had scarcely pushed it out upon the water, when, with a roll
+and lurch, it turned over upon its side, and floated like a wreck, in a
+helpless and melancholy manner. We drew it up on shore again and set to
+work; I cheerily and hopefully, feeling perfectly aware that everything
+that was at all good in the workmanship was mine; Aleck mournfully,
+knowing that all the faults in its construction were his.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder at Groves not coming," he said, presently; "I can't help
+thinking he could tell me how to make it float straight."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll just go and make him come," I replied; "he's been so little with
+us the last few days, I'm sure he might find time."</p>
+
+<p>Aleck agreed, and I set off to the lodge, leaving him to puzzle on by
+himself over the manifold difficulties of ship-building. To bring old
+George to the rescue, however, did not turn out the easy task that I had
+anticipated. He was in the work-shop, the door safely bolted, and not
+even the smallest aperture anywhere, through which I might discover the
+nature of his employment. My persuasions were all carried on at a
+disadvantage, and the conversation resolved itself into:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Please, George, <i>do</i> come and help us; it's very important. Aleck wants
+you particularly down at the Cove." This from my side of the door.</p>
+
+<p>Then from his side:&mdash;"I'm afraid, Master Willie, I can't possibly find
+the time; I'm very busy."</p>
+
+<p>From my side:&mdash;"But Aleck's boat won't sail, and we've tried everything
+to make it, and unless you come we can't do anything more."</p>
+
+<p>From his side:&mdash;"I'll come to-morrow, Master Willie, and then see if we
+don't get Master Aleck's ship to sail as merrily as the 'Fair Alice'
+herself."</p>
+
+<p>"Even <i>you</i> will not be able to do so much as that," I rejoined;
+whereupon a low chuckle of merriment and satisfaction was clearly
+audible on the other side. I continued:&mdash;"It's very well to laugh, but
+if you could see Aleck's boat all lying on one side, looking not so nice
+even as the tub-boat in the 'Swiss Family Robinson,' you wouldn't think
+it so easily made all right."</p>
+
+<p>No answer; but click, click inside.</p>
+
+<p>"At least, do tell me what you're working at," I said, growing
+impatient, and battering at the door; "do tell me&mdash;there's a dear old
+George."</p>
+
+<p>"Work that can't be hindered by playing with two young gentlemen all the
+afternoon. There, sir, now I've told you;" and another chuckle followed,
+and click, click went on as before.</p>
+
+<p>I had no excuse for lingering longer. George was like a besieged
+garrison within a secure fortress; there was no chance of enticing him
+out beyond the shelter of his walls. So I could only return discomfited
+to the Cove.</p>
+
+<p>"There's no use trying," I said to Aleck. "All that old George will
+promise is to come out to-morrow, and make your boat sail as well as the
+'Fair Alice' herself: those are his words."</p>
+
+<p>"He's not very likely to be able to do that," responded Aleck, dolefully
+surveying our workmanship. "I've been trying to trim it with a stone
+stuck securely on and tarred over; but look, even that has come off
+again, and it will do nothing but turn over in that wretched way. If I
+had been trying to construct a wreck now, I'm sure I couldn't have made
+anything more like."</p>
+
+<p>"And that's something, after all," I said, encouragingly. "It's not
+every one that could have made a wreck."</p>
+
+<p>But my cousin took little comfort from the suggestion; he stood looking
+and pondering, until, at last, after some minutes' pause, he drew a long
+breath and exclaimed, as if from depths of internal conviction, "I'll
+tell you what; I must pull it all to pieces, and put it together quite
+afresh&mdash;from the beginning."</p>
+
+<p>"A strong-minded decision, and spoken out most heroically, Mr.
+Shipbuilder!" said a voice from behind, and we started at finding my
+father had come upon us so quietly that we had not perceived him. "You
+two boys are just like a pair of doctors consulting over a bad case;
+only you've come to what is happily rather an unusual conclusion,
+namely, that the best plan is to kill the patient!"</p>
+
+<p>"I think the patient's dead already," answered Aleck, tragically.</p>
+
+<p>"And you're only going to dissect him&mdash;is that it?" asked my father
+merrily, inspecting the boat, and listening with interest to the various
+measures which had already been tried and had failed. "Well," he added,
+"if my opinion as a consulting physician is to be taken, I should
+recommend Groves as the best surgeon; his advice to be followed in every
+particular, and all operations he may suggest to be duly performed."</p>
+
+<p>"We've asked him," we both exclaimed, "and he said he was too busy to
+come."</p>
+
+<p>"But," I added, "he promises that to-morrow he will make Aleck's boat
+sail as well as mine."</p>
+
+<p>"His must be uncommonly clever fingers if they are equal to that task,"
+said my father doubtingly; "but, as I said before, Surgeon Groves is the
+man for your bad case. And now I should like to know which of you means
+to stay at home to-morrow morning and learn the lessons which ought to
+be prepared this afternoon, and which will not be ready unless we are
+betaking ourselves home very soon? You, Willie?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, papa," I said, "nor Aleck either; we mean to have a very
+delightful, long, whole holiday, and to do no lessons at all, not the
+very smallest little bit of one." And so saying, we picked up the boat
+and various other belongings, and, one on each side of my father, took
+the way of the Zig-zag up towards home.</p>
+
+<p>"We haven't quite settled all we are going to do to-morrow, papa," I
+proceeded; "but if we may, we want to have the boat in the morning, and
+sail the 'Fair Alice,' and go out to some place for madrepores; and
+George is going to see about Aleck's boat too. And then, in the
+afternoon, we would play cricket with you, dear papa."</p>
+
+<p>"I am much obliged to you, Willie," answered my father, playfully bowing
+to me, "and feel greatly honoured at your kind arrangement for my
+amusement. Perhaps you have planned for your mamma also; is she to
+field-out when I take my innings? or possibly she will bowl!"</p>
+
+<p>"Auntie couldn't soon put you out if she were to bowl," said Aleck,
+laughing; "it would not do to trust Auntie with the ball."</p>
+
+<p>"Then, perhaps, the wicket?" suggested my father.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, papa, you know," I interposed, "you will be all alone with dear
+mamma in the morning&mdash;you always are&mdash;but you always do play with me in
+the afternoon; and now that Aleck is here to play also, it will be so
+jolly. Please, dear papa, do say you will."</p>
+
+<p>"Shall I say, like the poor people, <i>I'll consider of it?</i>" answered my
+father. "But allow me to state to you both that I am at present
+considering another thing, which is, that so long as I have you two boys
+clinging one at each side of me, I am reduced to the necessity of
+climbing this steep hill with a matter of twelve stone in tow, and that
+at my time of life I ought rather to be looking upon you young people as
+crutches to assist my failing steps."</p>
+
+<p>"Do use me as a crutch, papa!" I exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>"Please, uncle, let me be another crutch," chimed in Aleck, and we
+insinuated ourselves into what we thought a convenient position under
+his elbows. Whereupon, suddenly bringing his weight down upon us, and
+contriving a dexterous movement towards the bank, my father landed us
+both on our backs amidst the grass and the ferns, and was off at such a
+pace that we were some time in catching him up again, out of breath as
+we were with the fall, and the laughing, and the running up the hill.</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't papa great fun?" I asked my cousin, as we were in pursuit.</p>
+
+<p>"Glorious!" was his only response; but I thought it quite sufficient.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI"></a>CHAPTER VI.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE SCHOONER-YACHT.</h3>
+
+
+<p>There are some unfortunate children who seem fated to have their
+holidays and special occasions drowned in rain. I, on the contrary,
+belonged to the favoured class, accustomed always to expect, and almost
+always to enjoy, sunshine bright and glorious, whensoever birth-days,
+high days, and whole holidays made me specially prize and value it.</p>
+
+<p>So it was by no means with surprise that I opened my eyes the next
+morning to find the sun's golden rays streaming in at my window, and to
+observe, on jumping up and looking out, that there was not a cloud to be
+seen, save, indeed, the shadowy gray morning mist that was fast
+dispersing over the sea. I pattered hastily into Aleck's room before
+proceeding to the business of the toilet, to awaken him, and to urge
+upon him the desirability of getting up as soon as possible, and coming
+down with me into the garden to gather a nosegay for my mother, an
+institution of three years' standing, and which I would not upon any
+account have dispensed with. Aleck murmured such a very sleepy assent to
+my views, that I was constrained to resort to extreme measures, lest he
+should "go off" again, and accordingly took to the gentle persuasion of
+water sprinkled on his face, the counterpane delicately withdrawn from
+his bed, and similar little attentions, which I felt to have been
+completely successful, when a pillow, wielded with the vigour of
+self-defence, gave notice that hostilities were about to be returned,
+and I withdrew to my own room.</p>
+
+<p>It was not long before we were both out in the garden busily engaged in
+a careful inspection of the flower-beds, preparatory to the
+flower-gathering. Any flowers I liked, I might gather on this particular
+morning, but as the nosegay must not be too large, choice was difficult.
+Aleck made plenty of fun, but in reality gave little help.</p>
+
+<p>"What's the use of my advising you," he said, not without reason; "you
+never take my advice when you get it?" And, in truth, I had uniformly
+taken the opposite line to the one he suggested, choosing a scarlet
+geranium where he offered a light-coloured verbena, and a rose when he
+had suggested mignonnette.</p>
+
+<p>"You see," I explained, "mamma won't care for it unless I arrange it all
+myself. Then Nurse has a lace paper ready which I shall put round it to
+make it look better. If you like you can hold the flowers," I added,
+kindly.</p>
+
+<p>But this did not meet my cousin's views.</p>
+
+<p>"I think I'll make a nosegay for uncle," he said, presently; "I suppose
+I may&mdash;eh, Willie?"</p>
+
+<p>I felt sure there could be no objection, and signified my opinion from
+the very centre of a geranium bed, in which I was making active
+researches, that would have turned the gardener's hair gray with
+consternation had he not been safely off the premises at the time,
+comfortably engaged in discussing his breakfast. And Aleck set to work,
+and soon gathered a nosegay that almost, if not quite, equalled my own.</p>
+
+<p>Which of our young readers who knows the delight of being let loose on
+some fine morning in a garden, with full permission to pluck flowers at
+their own sweet will, knows when to stop? We certainly did not, and
+should have produced bouquets, at all events, quite unrivalled for size,
+had it not been for the sounding of the first gong, and the appearance
+on the lawn of Nurse herself, still so called, although I was no longer
+her subject, in virtue of her unlimited right of jurisdiction over our
+clothes.</p>
+
+<p>"A fine sight you're making of yourselves, young gentlemen," she said,
+beginning with general statements, and then descending into details. "I
+should like to know what you call that style of hair-dressing which
+means that every hair stands straight out in any direction but the right
+one, and no two of them the same. And, Master Willie, if you think you
+can go down into the dining-room with your tunic in its present
+condition, not to mention your boots, or Master Gordon's jacket, you're
+greatly mistaken. And then to look at your collars! No wonder that the
+bills are as they are, with respect to French polish and blue for clear
+starching; I know that boys, be they young gentlemen or others, cannot
+be expected to act like creatures endowed with reason, but still it
+passes me to understand their ways with respect to clothes well fitted
+too, and made in the most approved fashion."</p>
+
+<p>"I think <i>we</i> should be black and blue if nurse were not really very
+good-natured, though she talks like that," I whispered to Aleck; feeling
+too much the cause she had for strictures upon my personal appearance at
+the time, to take that opportunity of defending the general character of
+boyhood. So we surrendered at discretion, and went up-stairs to make
+ourselves tidy, receiving before the second gong visits of inspection
+from nurse, who had in the meantime tied up our nosegays for us, and
+placed the lace paper round the one I had gathered for my mother.</p>
+
+<p>Very important I felt myself as I went down-stairs, for two little
+packets, folded in white paper, had been entrusted to my care by my
+parents respectively, containing, as I well knew, their presents for
+each other, which were to be delivered by me before breakfast.</p>
+
+<p>Directly after prayers the presentation took place. First, the little
+parcel addressed to my mother, with the message, which I delivered
+demurely enough, that a gentleman who would not give his name, had left
+it for Mrs. Grant yesterday, and&mdash;but here I broke down, and my appeal,
+"Oh, papa, I've forgotten what more it was I was to say," produced a
+peal of laughter, and put an end to our little pretence of mystery.</p>
+
+<p>"Your packet is much the smallest, papa," I said; and watched to see
+what would come out of the white paper. My father's face lit up with
+pleasure as he opened a small case and discovered a beautifully executed
+miniature of my mother.</p>
+
+<p>"Willie," he said, "I think the lady who left this for me yesterday must
+have been very like mamma."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, papa, she was <i>very</i> like indeed," I answered; and then we
+proceeded to inspect the contents of my mother's parcel, and admired, as
+much as it is in boys to admire jewelry, a beautiful bracelet, with
+which she seemed quite as much pleased as my father was with his
+present, and which had attached to it a locket in the form of a heart,
+containing, as we presently discovered, my hair twined with his.</p>
+
+<p>Then Aleck and I had to present our nosegays, which were, of course,
+greatly praised.</p>
+
+<p>"An unusual honour for me!" said my father merrily, when he received
+his. "Willie generally cuts me off with a sprig for my button-hole."</p>
+
+<p>"Aleck gathered it for you quite out of his own head, papa."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed!" said my father; "that is really the most wonderful thing I
+ever heard! Gathered the nosegay out of his own head! Well, I have been
+told of flowers growing in many strange places before, but never in so
+strange a place as a person's head. Aleck, my dear boy, you will be the
+wonder of the age, so prepare to be made a show of! a flower-garden in
+your head! We must let the gardener know! We ought to place you under
+his cultivation instead of Mr. Glengelly's!"</p>
+
+<p>What a merry breakfast-table we had that morning. My father declared
+that he felt just like a boy, so happy in having his holiday; and Aleck
+and I thought him more amusing and pleasant than any boy, no one ever
+seemed to make us laugh as he did.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course, however," he suggested, "as it is going to be a whole
+holiday, and no work, there need be no eating either."</p>
+
+<p>But that was by no means our view of the matter; we declared ourselves
+more hungry than usual, and made such inroads on the honey that my
+father asked at last whether he had not better send out for the hive.</p>
+
+<p>After breakfast we had our Bible reading with my mother; that was a
+treat and not a lesson&mdash;we never missed it even on whole holidays&mdash;and
+then my father joined us and took part in consulting over the plans for
+the day.</p>
+
+<p>"We shall dispose of these young gentlemen at once," he said, "for I
+find Groves is expecting them at the Cove, so soon as they can go; and
+they may have the whole morning to employ as they like, in the boats, or
+on the rocks&mdash;anything short of being in the water, which I do <i>not</i>
+recommend. And for ourselves, Rickson is going to bring round the pony
+carriage at twelve, when Mrs. Grant will be driven out by her humble
+servant, the coachman, supposing always that she sees no just cause or
+impediment." And my father playfully touched his forehead, as if waiting
+for orders.</p>
+
+<p>It was clear to read in my mother's eyes that she saw no difficulty in
+the way of the drive with my father; and we boys were not less ready to
+avail ourselves of the permission to go out at once and for the whole
+morning.</p>
+
+<p>We flew off to the play-room, loaded our pockets with a miscellaneous
+store of nails, string, and implements of one kind or another, such as
+we were wont to use in our various undertakings, and, carrying the
+melancholy hulk which Aleck had not had time to pull to pieces, we set
+off at express speed to the Cove, with Frisk barking at our heels.</p>
+
+<p>There was not much talking during the first part of the scramble, but
+Aleck contrived to get the contents of one of his pockets scattered by a
+hasty jump, and we had to stop and pick up the things, which was the
+signal for our chatter to begin as usual.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder what surprise old George has for us?" I observed
+confidentially to my cousin.</p>
+
+<p>"Whatever it is, I think he must have been a long time at it," replied
+Aleck; "he's been shut up in the work-shop so often of late."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," I said; "and since that one peep I told you of, I've never had a
+chance of looking in."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps more ships," my cousin suggested, his thoughts running in that
+line.</p>
+
+<p>"Ever since I can remember he's always made me something," I said; "once
+it was a pop-gun, and the next time it was a cart, and then, last time,
+the 'Fair Alice.'"</p>
+
+<p>Aleck listened quietly to the catalogue of my presents, only remarking
+that, if they got better each time, he wondered what they'd come to be
+at last; thus suggesting such a pleasant subject for speculation that I
+did not immediately find any occasion for further talk, but ruminated as
+we pursued our way for a few moments in silence.</p>
+
+<p>"It must be very nice," my cousin resumed presently, "having another day
+for presents besides Christmas-days and birth-days. I wonder where papa
+and mamma will be my next birth-day."</p>
+
+<p>"Whatever it is that George has made for me," I said, "you shall play
+with it too, Aleck. I like you to play with my things."</p>
+
+<p>"You're very good about the 'Fair Alice,' I'm sure," answered my cousin.
+"I wish I had anything to lend you that would give you half as much
+pleasure. I'm afraid this&mdash;referring to the boat he was carrying&mdash;will
+not come to much, in spite of George's promises."</p>
+
+<p>It certainly did not look encouraging, but by this time we were gaining
+the shingle, the fresh sea-breeze blowing in our faces seemed to quicken
+our steps, and the rest of our way was a race between us and Frisk until
+we reached the lodge.</p>
+
+<p>We found old George on the watch for us, his kind cheery face all in a
+pleasant glow of welcome. He was ready to start directly for the Cove,
+he told us, when the first salutations were over. But I did not feel
+quite so eager, as might have been expected, having a private desire to
+explore the work-shop, of which I perceived the door to be open.</p>
+
+<p>"May I go in now?" I asked, moving towards it.</p>
+
+<p>"Ay, ay, sir," answered my old friend with a merry twinkle in his eye,
+which developed into a broad smile by the time we returned from our
+fruitless inspection of bare benches and tools; and he took to
+singing,&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"When she came there, the cupboard was bare."<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>"That Master Willie is a quotation from a celebrated poet. I reckon
+you're ready enough now to come on to the Cove."</p>
+
+<p>We sallied forth accordingly, I convinced that there was some secret in
+store for me still; Aleck full of thoughts about his ship, which he was
+exhibiting to George as he went along, narrating its many
+mis-adventures, and incorrigible tendency to sail bottom upwards, and
+gaining from the old man nothing but a series of chuckles, together with
+assurances which seemed to afford to George himself infinite amusement,
+that "Master Gordon's boat should sail in the Cove as trim and tight as
+the 'Fair Alice' herself."</p>
+
+<p>It was a glorious morning. The sunshine was dancing and sparkling upon
+the water with a thousand gleaming flashes; the little waves came
+lapping playfully upon the sand and shingle to our feet, and made sweet
+music in the recesses of the rocks. We used to call these warm September
+days our Indian summer, and were wont to fancy that they were never so
+bright and beautiful anywhere as at Braycombe.</p>
+
+<p>Groves took a quick comprehensive look towards the offing, and round
+again towards the rocks, and finally off towards the west, and then, as
+if satisfied with the result of his observations, said to us: "It would
+be a beautiful day for the White-Rock Cove, young gentlemen; the wind's
+shifted a bit since early morning, and Ralph will be round in half an
+hour to give us a hand with the oars; if Mrs. Grant wouldn't mind your
+being a bit late for luncheon, as you're to dine in the evening, we
+could do it nicely."</p>
+
+<p>Now if anything had been wanted to add to the zest of our enjoyment,
+this suggestion of Groves's was just the thing. No expedition in the
+whole range of possibilities gave us so much pleasure as this one.
+First, it could only be accomplished in certain states of wind and tide;
+secondly, it occupied a longer time than could be usually available
+except on very propitious half holidays; and, finally, its attractions
+were of the most varied character. For what caverns were there in the
+whole neighbourhood that could compete with those at the White-Rock
+Cove?&mdash;with their deep clear pools, in which the pink seaweed and
+gorgeous anemones seemed to find a more congenial home than in any other
+place; with mysterious dark recesses and wonderful natural arches, and
+miniature gulf streams, that offered irresistible attractions to the
+spirit of enterprise, in the way of crossings on slippery
+stepping-stones; and with a soft white beach, spread out at the foot of
+the rocks, abounding with such a wonderful variety of shells, that our
+researches rarely ended without the discovery of some fresh specimen for
+our collections. Nor must we omit to mention the only white rock of any
+size which was to be found in our red sandstone district, which gave its
+name to the Cove, and as to which there were numerous traditions current
+in the neighbourhood.</p>
+
+<p>To the near side of the Cove there was, indeed, a short way through the
+woods, but unless we had a boat we could not reach the caverns, or find
+our way to the most attractive spots for shell gathering.</p>
+
+<p>Groves's suggestion was met, as might be expected, with rapturous
+applause, and by the time that we reached our own Cove, it was decided
+that one of us boys should go up to the house to obtain the necessary
+permission, whilst, in the meantime, the boat should be got ready for
+the sail.</p>
+
+<p>The door of our boat-house was lying open as we came up, and something
+of unusual appearance was dimly visible inside.</p>
+
+<p>"The secret!" I exclaimed, running eagerly forward and drawing to light
+a beautiful large kite with a wondrous flying eagle depicted on it, and
+a tail of marvellous length, together with an apparently inexhaustible
+length of string. "Oh, George, this is what you've been making&mdash;how
+beautiful it is!"</p>
+
+<p>"But maybe you don't guess for whom it's intended, sir; I don't deny the
+making of it," said the old man.</p>
+
+<p>"I think I do though," I answered, looking up at his kind, cheery face;
+"I think you've made it for me, George."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you're about right there, sir, and it's been a real pleasure to
+me the making of it, being, as it were, somewhat of a sailor's craft, it
+having to be driven of the wind, even though it might be said to be more
+for land than water."</p>
+
+<p>I heard Aleck say that it belonged rather to the air than to earth or
+water in his opinion. Then we took to a close inspection of the eagle,
+which we both agreed to be splendid, and became eager for an immediate
+trial of its flying powers.</p>
+
+<p>But here, to our surprise, old George did not at once agree. He wanted
+to see, he told us, whether he could not make Master Gordon's boat sail
+as well as mine. We could have a sailing match, and try which would go
+the best, if only we would get out the "Fair Alice;" and so saying he
+led the way to my own little boat-house, whilst we followed in
+speechless wonder at the absurdity of the proposition.</p>
+
+<p>"As if he could set my boat to rights in a few minutes!" said Aleck to
+me incredulously.</p>
+
+<p>"Here, Master Gordon," continued George, making pretended difficulties
+at the lock; "you had better open the door yourself, sir."</p>
+
+<p>Aleck stooped down to do so. "Why, George!" he exclaimed, "it's as easy
+as possible; what <i>did</i> you make such a fuss about? But&mdash;oh&mdash;what a
+beauty! Willie&mdash;Willie&mdash;look!" and so saying, he drew forth a
+beautifully made little vessel, about the same size as my "Fair Alice,"
+but even, as I thought, more perfectly finished, and with two masts.</p>
+
+<p>"A schooner-yacht," my cousin continued, triumphantly. "Oh, Willie, I
+like it a great deal better than even the 'Fair Alice.' Is it yours,
+George?" he inquired.</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir," answered Groves, quickly; "guess again."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know any one else, unless it's Willie."</p>
+
+<p>"Near it, but not right; try again, sir; somebody else that's not very
+far off."</p>
+
+<p>My cousin coloured with a wild flush of delight; but though he stooped
+down to finger the new yacht in a sort of tender way, as if he loved it,
+he hesitated to make another guess, and I broke in impatiently,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Aleck, why are you so nonsensical as to pretend you don't see it's for
+you?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's it indeed, Master Gordon; you'll understand what I meant about
+the sailing match now;" and the old sailor's face lit up afresh with
+kind enjoyment, as he marked the absorbing pleasure which his present
+was giving.</p>
+
+<p>Another moment, and Aleck was almost hugging the old man: "Oh, how very,
+very, very kind of you to make it for me; I like it better a great deal
+than anything I have ever seen, better than the 'Fair Alice' even, and I
+did think that nicer than anything else. May I have it out on the water
+to-day; and couldn't we sail them both together as you said."</p>
+
+<p>There was no time for answering him, as he ran on immediately into a
+minute individual examination of all the details of the little vessel,
+calling for attention and admiration in every case: "Look at the
+bowsprit, and then the rudder; see how delicately it moves; the royal is
+beautiful, and there are three flags; do look, Willie, mine will be the
+admiral's vessel, and I can signal to you."</p>
+
+<p>I looked, but said very little, though Aleck was too much absorbed with
+his own enjoyment to notice this, and kept appealing to me for
+sympathetic interest during the whole operation of unreefing the sails
+and launching the yacht for a trial sail in the Cove.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing certainly could look more graceful and pretty than did the
+little vessel, as it bent to the breeze, and steadily kept its course
+out towards the mouth of the Cove. Aleck clapped his hands exultingly,
+and ran forward to slip the rope across, as the tide was already pretty
+high, and still rising. Then slowly brought the treasure back again, and
+surveyed it at his leisure in one of the little creeks, where the
+shelter of the rocks prevented it from speeding off again on its
+journey. Frisk, too, took a great interest in the new acquisition,
+seeming to recognize in it an addition to his circle of friends. And
+George rubbed his hands, and chuckled with satisfaction, as he repeated
+again that Master Gordon's boat should sail on the Cove as tight and
+trim as the "Fair Alice" herself.</p>
+
+<p>And I&mdash;yes, I must confess it, found the old miserable feelings were all
+back again, and vainly tried to shake off the dead weight which had
+settled upon me from the moment that I had clearly understood that
+Aleck, and not I, was to possess the new vessel.</p>
+
+<p>Perhaps George detected something of what was passing in my mind, for,
+when the question arose which of us boys should go up to the house to
+ask permission for the expedition to the White-Rock Cove, he decided at
+once that it should be Aleck, saying that he and I would have time for
+trying the kite meanwhile; and, looking back at it now, I fancy I can
+understand his wanting to take off my thoughts from Aleck's present, and
+make me think about my own.</p>
+
+<p>So Aleck started off by the Zig-zag, and George and I would have set to
+flying the kite immediately, had not he discovered that one of the sails
+of our own boat had been taken up to the lodge, and that he must go and
+look for it first.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll be back in less than a quarter of an hour, sir," he said, however,
+as he left; "and you can have the kite and be on the meadow ready."</p>
+
+<p>I had taken up the kite in my hand, but I threw it aside again the
+moment George turned his back upon me, and sitting down upon the stones
+near the water's edge, with Frisk's fore-paws stretched across my lap,
+looked gloomily at the water and at Aleck's new boat. Evil feelings grew
+stronger and stronger within me as I looked. Though fascinated so that I
+could not take my eyes off it, I hated the very sight of the pretty
+little schooner, and wished heartily that George had never made it. And
+I thought about Aleck, how happy he was this morning, and how miserable
+I was; and I thought it unfair of him to be happier in my own home than
+I was; and then I wondered why George should care for him so much as to
+take all that trouble for him, forgetting how I had begged old George to
+love my cousin who was to be like my brother, and forgetting, too, that
+Aleck's pleasant ways had won upon the old man during the past few
+months, so that he had gained quite an established place in his
+affections.</p>
+
+<p>These and countless other, but similar thoughts, chased each other
+through my head in a far shorter time than they take to relate, whilst
+dreamily I kept watching the little vessel, and mechanically taking note
+of its different points. The sails at first were flapping listlessly,
+the rocks, as I mentioned before, affording shelter from the breeze. But
+presently the breeze shifted a little, and this change, together with
+that produced by the tide, now just at its full height, moved the
+schooner somewhat further from the rocks; then gradually the sails
+filled once again, and after stopping a minute at one point, and a
+minute at another, as, drifted by the motion of the waves, it finally
+escaped from the little creek and stood steadily out into the open
+channel of the Cove. I sprung to my feet and followed in pursuit,
+running or jumping from rock to rock towards the mouth of the Cove. But
+the little vessel got under the lee of a projecting rock, and was
+stopped in its course for a while, so I sat down once more, not caring
+to find my way round to the other side and release it, according to my
+usual fashion, but finding a moody satisfaction in staring straight
+before me, and paying no attention to Frisk, who was flourishing about
+with barks, and waggings of his tail and prickings of his ears, as if
+he thought he ought to be sent in pursuit of the new boat, and
+considered me deficient in public spirit for not stirring in the matter.
+Then, as I steadily refused to notice him, he took to playing with the
+end of the rope on which the rings were fastened, which slipped on to
+the iron stake, as before-mentioned, and constituted our "harbour-bar;"
+seeming as pleased as a kitten with a ball of worsted, when he found
+that he could push the ring up and move it with his paws. In fact, the
+stake was so very short, and the ring so light, that I could see five
+minutes more of such play, and probably the rope would be unfastened,
+and the channel clear to the open sea.</p>
+
+<p>Another moment and I noticed that the little vessel was clearing out
+from its shelter under the rock, the wind coming down into the Cove in
+gusts and draughts, so that it seemed to blow every way in succession,
+and was now standing straight towards the mouth of the harbour.</p>
+
+<p>There was a quick, sharp conflict between the strong whisper of
+temptation and the protesting voice of conscience, when I marked the
+position of the boat, and saw also, that in another moment Frisk's
+antics would have unfastened the barrier between it and the wide waters
+beyond. A quick, sharp conflict, and I came off defeated.</p>
+
+<p>Hastily turning my back upon the harbour-bar, I ran to the head of the
+Cove without disturbing Frisk, who was so taken up with his newly found
+amusement, that he did not miss me; took up the kite and sped off to the
+meadow, which lay between the Cove and the lodge, where I was joined by
+the dog, two or three minutes after, panting and breathless at my having
+stolen a march upon him.</p>
+
+<p>George, too, came a minute later from the other side into the meadow,
+which, although out of sight of the Cove, owing to the rise of the
+ground, was as good a place to wait in as any, since Aleck would have to
+pass through it on his way from the house.</p>
+
+<p>Ralph appeared also, and through our united efforts, and to our united
+satisfaction, my new kite was soon soaring higher than any kite ever
+seen before by any member of our little party; great was my excitement
+in holding the string and letting it out, or taking it in as I ran from
+one part to another, Frisk the while dashing about wildly, and barking
+as though at some strange bird of which he entertained suspicions.</p>
+
+<p>Old George looked as pleased as if he had been a boy of six, rather than
+a man of sixty, and Ralph rushed recklessly here and there and
+everywhere, with his head thrown back and his eyes rivetted upon the
+soaring kite, until, like Genius in the fable, he was suddenly prostrate
+through stumbling over an unnoticed stump.</p>
+
+<p>"See what comes of not looking where you're going," moralized George, as
+he picked him up and gave him a general shaking by way of seeing that
+nothing had come loose in his tumble; a sentiment from which it is
+possible the youngster might have derived more profit, had not his
+elderly relative experienced a similar mishap almost immediately
+afterwards.</p>
+
+<p>I was the only heavy-hearted one of the trio; and even I forgot my cares
+and anxieties in the glorious excitement of holding in the kite, which
+tugged and tugged at the string as if it would carry me up to the
+skies, rather than give in.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder what's kept Master Aleck such a time?" said old George, after
+we had spent nearly three-quarters of an hour kite-flying.</p>
+
+<p>The load at my heart came back again in a moment as I answered
+hurriedly, that I did not mind Aleck's being detained, for the pleasure
+of flying the kite was as good as anything. And George, who inferred
+that the cloud he had noticed before over me had passed away, rejoiced
+accordingly.</p>
+
+<p>It was more than an hour from the time of his leaving, when Aleck
+reappeared, holding one side of a small hamper, whilst one of the
+men-servants held the other.</p>
+
+<p>"Lots of good things for luncheon," he said, by way of explanation, as
+they deposited their burden on the grass. And then he proceeded to
+unfold how some one had been calling on his uncle and aunt, and he could
+not speak to them at first; and then how his uncle had told him the
+drive would have to be later, and more distant than they had intended;
+and, finally, that the game of cricket being given up, we might have
+our luncheon and picnic at the White-Rock Cove, returning any
+reasonable time in the afternoon.</p>
+
+<p>"Won't it be splendid?" Aleck continued, gleefully, whilst I drew in
+line, and my kite slowly descended; "we shall have time for the sailing
+match, and madrepore hunt, and the caverns&mdash;everything!"</p>
+
+<p>I assented with as much of pleasure in my tone as was at command,
+thinking after all how very pleasant it would be if&mdash;there came the
+<i>if</i>&mdash;and I scarcely dared admit to myself, how sorry I began to feel at
+the thought that my man[oe]uvre had probably succeeded, or how sorely
+the disappointment to George and my cousin would mar our happiness! If
+only I could know that what I had wished to happen an hour ago had not
+happened, then how wonderfully light my heart would feel. A sickening
+feeling of anxiety, such as I had not dreamt of in my little happy life
+before, came over me, and nervously I hurried on the winding up of my
+string.</p>
+
+<p>"What a noble kite it is," said my cousin, "I wish I could go up upon
+one!"</p>
+
+<p>"'If wishes were horses'&mdash;you know the old saying, Master Gordon,"
+responded Groves. "I think you'd be sorry enough after getting up five
+hundred feet into the air, to feel that a puff of wind might tumble you
+over, and make the coming down a trifle quicker, and less agreeable,
+than the going up."</p>
+
+<p>"It was the going up, and not the coming down that I meant," rejoined
+Aleck, "though I have heard papa say that coming down from a great
+height does not hurt."</p>
+
+<p>"Ugh!" I ejaculated, "you wouldn't have me believe that. Just a little
+while before you came to us I had a bad fall off the table. I can tell
+you it hurt!"</p>
+
+<p>"I've fallen, too, off a tree," answered my cousin, not to be outdone,
+for boys are wont to brag of their honourable scars, "and it hurt a
+great deal, but I mean falling from higher still. One of the sailors I
+talked to on board ship had fallen from a mast, and he told me that he
+went over and over; the first time he went over seemed quite a long
+time, and between that and the second time he seemed to remember almost
+everything he had ever cared about much in all his life, but after the
+second going over he never knew anything until he found himself lying in
+the cabin, and the doctor setting his arm, which had been broken in the
+fall, though he never felt it."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll be bound he felt it enough when the doctor got to work upon him,"
+remarked George.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but he didn't feel it when it broke," returned Aleck, who wished
+to establish his point.</p>
+
+<p>By this time the stately kite was lying on the grass. I lifted it up,
+and we started in procession for the Cove, Aleck acting train-bearer to
+the long tail, and winding it up as he went along; and Groves and Ralph
+carrying the hamper.</p>
+
+<p>Another moment, and we were in sight of the Cove. My heart was beating
+violently, and I felt the crimson flush mount suddenly to my face, and
+then leave it again; but no one else noticed it, and as yet I could not
+see to the harbour-bar, so as to know whether the ship were safe or not.
+The little creek in which it had been left was, however, full in view,
+and Aleck instantly observed that his new treasure was not there.</p>
+
+<p>But there was an entire absence of uneasiness in his tone, as he quietly
+remarked,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you put it into the boat-house lest it should be blown about
+whilst we were away;" and without waiting for an answer he placed the
+rolled-up tail of the kite in my hand, and ran forwards to look into the
+boat-house for it.</p>
+
+<p>It was in vain, however, that he searched first my miniature boat-house,
+and then every nook and corner of the real one.</p>
+
+<p>"It's not there," he said. "I thought you must have put it away."</p>
+
+<p>"I never said so," I answered; and then a bright thought coming to me,
+as to what would be an impregnable position to take up in all future
+inquiry, I boldly added, "I never touched it after you went away."</p>
+
+<p>"Where can it be, then?" said Aleck; and yet, though it was clearly a
+hopeless task, we once again looked carefully for the missing treasure
+in both boat-houses. There was the "Fair Alice," my own beautiful little
+vessel, that had seemed the most perfect thing of its kind, until the
+arrival of the new one; but the other was nowhere to be found.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell you what, Master Gordon," said old George, "the wind's been
+uncommon shifting and fanciful this morning, and we left her with sails
+set; depend upon it, sir, that she's been drifting out with the tide a
+bit, and the wind so off shore, as it is now, she'd be up towards the
+mouth of the Cove. We ought to have thought of the wind and the change
+of the tide; it will be well if she's not out to sea."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, no fear of that!" exclaimed Aleck, joyfully, "because I myself put
+the harbour-bar across this morning when I sailed her first;" and so
+saying, he bounded off along the rocks towards the mouth of the Cove,
+the rest of us following almost as fast.</p>
+
+<p>One hasty glance and I knew that what I had expected had taken place;
+the ring which tightened the rope across, so as to constitute a barrier,
+was now under water&mdash;the rope, it must be understood, being arranged to
+lie along the bottom when not specially adjusted&mdash;the channel out to sea
+was perfectly unimpeded, and there was no trace of the little vessel
+which, an hour and a half before, had been sailing so merrily upon the
+water.</p>
+
+<p>"O George!" exclaimed Aleck, "see the rope is down; it must have gone
+out to sea; it <i>can't</i> be gone!"</p>
+
+<p>But Aleck's face of sad conviction belied his words.</p>
+
+<p>"It can't be gone!" he repeated; and yet the tears of disappointment
+were forcing themselves into his eyes, though he battled up bravely
+against his trouble, and tried to believe still that there was some
+mistake.</p>
+
+<p>Then we betook ourselves to searching in every nook and corner of the
+Cove, exploring impossible places amongst the rocks, and once again
+returning to look through the boat-house; I, hypocritically, as active
+as others, lest there should be any suspicion raised.</p>
+
+<p>"Master Willie," said Groves at last, as if a bright thought had struck
+him, "I know what it must be, sir. You're up to a prank sometimes&mdash;in
+fact, rather often&mdash;and you've hidden away the yacht, for there's been
+no one else in the Cove but you; though where you can have put it I'm
+puzzled to say, seeing there's not a place fit to hide a walnut-shell I
+haven't looked in, not to say a schooner yacht drawing half a foot of
+water."</p>
+
+<p>All faces looked relieved by the idea&mdash;the three other faces I mean. But
+as its tendency was to fasten a certain measure of responsibility upon
+myself, I thought it better to become indignant.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know why you say I must have done it," I answered hastily. "I
+never touched the boat; what should I touch it for, it wasn't mine; you
+didn't make it for me. I told Aleck I hadn't touched it."</p>
+
+<p>"Master Willie, Master Willie," expostulated Groves, "don't be angry; I
+only thought you might have been up to a bit of fun, and I was
+mistaken."</p>
+
+<p>"Then, George&mdash;O George!" exclaimed my cousin, grasping him by the arm,
+"she <i>must</i> have gone out to sea;" and he tried hard to gulp down his
+feelings; "you know the harbour-bar is down."</p>
+
+<p>"And I should like to know how it came to be down," said George,
+severely. A new idea evidently passed all in a moment through my
+cousin's mind. With a fiery flashing in his eyes that I had never seen
+in him before, he turned suddenly upon me.</p>
+
+<p>"You naughty, wicked boy," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"You didn't touch the boat you say; but you didn't like my having it;
+you didn't like its being mine, because it was better than yours, and
+had two masts; and so you let down the bar, and&mdash;and she's got out to
+sea and is lost!" And so saying he burst into a passionate fit of tears.</p>
+
+<p>It is difficult to say which of us was the most surprised by this
+unlooked-for accusation of Aleck's. I had never seen my cousin in such a
+temper before, but was far too conscious of the wrong part I had acted
+to be able at once to answer with a protest of innocence. So that in the
+very short space of time which was occupied by George telling Aleck the
+case was not hopeless, and the vessel might be found yet, and that he'd
+be sorry for the wrong words he had said to me, a rapid controversy
+passed silently between me and my conscience somewhat in this wise:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p><i>Conscience.</i>&mdash;"You know that what he said is true about your not liking
+his having the schooner, and you know you wanted it to get lost."
+<i>Answer.</i>&mdash;"But I can say with perfect truth that I did not touch it <i>or
+the rope</i>."</p>
+
+<p><i>Conscience.</i>&mdash;"You know if you had called off Frisk the schooner would
+not have been lost." <i>Answer.</i>&mdash;"But I never <i>saw</i> Frisk unloose the
+ring; and I can say, with truth, that until just now I did not <i>know</i>
+that it was not safe."</p>
+
+<p><i>Conscience.</i>&mdash;"That will be a lie all the same. You have often been
+told that what makes a lie is the intention to deceive, and not the
+words only." <i>Answer.</i>&mdash;"What's the use of telling now that I really am
+very sorry it has happened. It's not any good confessing to Aleck that I
+might have prevented it. After all, it was Frisk who did it, and I did
+not even see Frisk do it. And Aleck's in such a towering passion; I
+could never face him and have him know the whole."</p>
+
+<p><i>Conscience</i>, more feebly.&mdash;"That's bad reasoning; you ought simply to
+find out what is right, and do it." <i>Answer.</i>&mdash;"And now that I come to
+think of it, it's a great shame that Aleck should fly out so at me, and
+I won't stand it." And at this point the voice of conscience became
+perfectly silenced, and, turning defiantly to my cousin, I exclaimed,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know what you mean, Aleck, by accusing me of it; I never
+touched the rope, and I never touched the boat; I'm quite certain that I
+did not, and it's a lie of yours to say that I did."</p>
+
+<p>"O Master Willie, Master Aleck," gasped old George, in consternation.
+"Young gentlemen, these words are not fit to come from such as you; what
+would your parents say?"</p>
+
+<p>But our brows lowered angrily, and we made no response; whilst George
+continued, abandoning in his dismay the usual form of address, and
+speaking as from age to youth, "My boys, children, have you not been
+taught of Him 'who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He
+suffered, He threatened not.' Christian boys should try to be like their
+Master, and such words as passed between you should never be heard
+amongst them. You've forgotten yourselves, young gentlemen, and you'll
+be very sorry soon for what you have said to each other. Master Aleck,
+you're wrong, sir, to say that Master Willie did it when he denies it.
+I've known Master Willie since he was born, and he speaks the truth.
+He's told me with the greatest of honestness when he's done things
+which was wrong, and no one else knowed of; as, for instance, when he
+ate the cherries and swallowed the stones, and when he got the cat's
+tail all over pitch&mdash;I can remember a score of things he's told me of,
+quite frank and open, and I'm sure he's spoken the truth now."</p>
+
+<p>I felt somewhat self-condemned whilst George thus enumerated the
+instances of my candour in simple unconsciousness of the fact that
+confessions of scrapes were generally received by him with such
+indulgence that it required the smallest possible amount of moral
+courage to make them.</p>
+
+<p>"Shake hands, young gentlemen," he added, after another pause, "and be
+friends, and let us all do what we can to find the schooner&mdash;she's cost
+me many an hour's work."</p>
+
+<p>And at this moment, for the first time, it flashed upon me painfully how
+great the disappointment was to George as well as to Aleck, and I was
+sorry, more sorry than I had hitherto felt.</p>
+
+<p>The pair of small chubby hands that met in the old sailor's rugged palm
+were unused to so ceremonious a meeting, and their owners were somewhat
+solemnized at being treated like grown-up gentlemen. But a fierce look
+of suspicion still lingered in Aleck's face, and I doubt not a glow of
+anger and excitement in mine, which showed that Groves's peacemaking had
+not been thoroughly effectual&mdash;we <i>felt</i> still as we had <i>spoken</i>
+before.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII"></a>CHAPTER VII.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE MISSING SHIP.</h3>
+
+
+<p>In the meantime Ralph had been busy getting all the things ready for our
+sail; so we took our places in the boat, and stood out to sea. The wind
+being steadily off shore, our progress was rapid; we bounded lightly
+over the water, and had soon placed some distance between us and the
+Cove.</p>
+
+<p>George sat at the helm, keeping a keen look out in every direction;
+whilst Aleck, Ralph, and I, strained our eyes in fruitless efforts to
+discover the tiny white sail we were longing to see.</p>
+
+<p>The glorious sunshine dancing and sparkling on the water seemed to mock
+the gloomy heavy-heartedness that was darkening the hours of our long
+anticipated holiday. Aleck and I were almost entirely silent. When we
+spoke, it was to Ralph, or George, as convenient third parties; not a
+word would we say to each other.</p>
+
+<p>Old George did his best, with clumsy kindness, to make lively remarks
+from time to time; but the responsive laugh was wanting; and, after
+experiencing two or three signal failures, he struck his colours and
+yielded to the spell that had fallen upon us.</p>
+
+<p>The whole Braycombe coast for many miles is deeply indented with creeks
+and coves, and diversified with outstanding rocks and promontories,
+about the most picturesque and the most dangerous part of our southern
+shores. Old George decided that probably the object of our search had
+been driven in by the fitful wind amongst some of the near rocks and
+creeks, and might, perhaps, be recovered by a careful search. So, warily
+steered by our experienced sailor, we set ourselves to the work, having
+scanned, to the best of our ability, the open sea beyond with a pocket
+telescope.</p>
+
+<p>What with the tackings frequently necessary, and the taking down sail in
+one place, and then putting it up in another, the time passed on
+rapidly; and we were quite surprised, as we finished the exploration of
+one of the little inlets, to hear Groves remark that it was "nigh upon
+two o'clock, and that we'd all be the better of a little food." For the
+first time in our lives we had forgotten to be hungry.</p>
+
+<p>It was decided that we should spread the luncheon on a broad flat stone,
+near which our boat was now curtseying listlessly on the water, and take
+our repast ashore. George and Ralph lifted out the hamper, and spread
+the cloth, and arranged the various good things we found inside.</p>
+
+<p>"And don't let us forget," said old George, reverently, lifting his hat,
+"the thanks we owe to our Father, which art in heaven, for His bounties
+provided for us."</p>
+
+<p>The train of thought thus started seemed to go on in his mind, after we
+had set to the serious business of luncheon. "You see, young gentlemen,"
+he presently continued, "we're to remember that all the good things He
+sends us come from the same hand that sends us our disappointments too;
+and though we don't always see it, it's true that the troubles and
+trials are amongst the <i>good</i> things. Many a time I've kept a-thinking
+of that verse which says, 'He that spared not His only-begotten Son, but
+delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not, with Him, also freely
+give us all things'&mdash;the <i>all things</i> there meaning, you see, the
+troubles and losses as much as the gains, and successes, and pleasures.
+And I think it's the same with children as with grown people; <i>their</i>
+trials, which are small to grown-up people, are great to <i>them</i>, and
+they don't come by chance. And, when we are able to feel this way, young
+gentlemen, it's easier to bear up when the wind seems dead against you,
+and to say, when things go wrong, and there's a deal of beating about,
+and a shipping of heavy seas, as you're taught to say in the Lord's
+prayer, 'Thy will be done.'"</p>
+
+<p>I forget what was said after George finished this homely, but practical
+and excellent children's sermon; but I can remember that Aleck's face
+looked somewhat lighter; the words seemed to have touched some inner
+chord, and to have met <i>his</i> troubles more than they did <i>mine</i>. <i>My</i>
+load, on the contrary, lay all the more heavily on my conscience; as I
+realized that I was entirely shut out from such consolations as George
+tried to offer, so that I became <i>more</i> rather than <i>less</i> gloomy.</p>
+
+<p>The old man resumed the thread of conversation soon again.</p>
+
+<p>"It seems strange now," he said, "to think how we're grieving over this
+bit of a toy ship, and then to think of how one's felt seeing, as I did
+once, a good ship with her crew, men and boys, clinging to the rigging,
+and going down before your eyes, and you not able to help them, though
+they kept a-screeching out and a-calling to you all the while."</p>
+
+<p>"Couldn't you do anything?" we both exclaimed, our interest now fully
+awakened; "did you try to help them?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh yes, sir," George answered, and I could see the tears standing in
+his eyes; "God be praised, we didn't see 'em go down without doing what
+we could for them; and I'm glad to think of it, though my life didn't
+seem worth the having for many a long day afterward."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, why?" asked Aleck, eagerly; and I, in spite of our being upon terms
+of not speaking, caught myself whispering to him, "Don't you
+know?&mdash;Ralph's father was drowned."</p>
+
+<p>But George went on, with his eyes fixed on the water, as if the great
+sea which had swallowed up his dead were a book, and he were reading
+from it.</p>
+
+<p>"His father"&mdash;and with a turn of the head he indicated Ralph&mdash;"was with
+me; he was but four-and-twenty, and as handsome as handsome; a young
+fellow such as there was not many to be seen like him; and he was a good
+son&mdash;a good son to his mother and to me&mdash;and a child of God, too, Heaven
+be praised! 'Father,' says he, 'we must try to save them;' and, with the
+sound of those poor creatures' cries ringing in my ears, I dared not say
+no, though the odds were fearful against us, and I was careful over
+<i>him</i>, though I'd not have minded for myself. Well, sir, two others
+joined us, and we succeeded in getting off; but just before we reached
+the sinking vessel, a heavy sea struck us, and in a moment we were all
+struggling in the water. I thought I heard Ralph&mdash;<i>he</i> was Ralph too&mdash;I
+thought I heard him just say, 'God have mercy on my poor Betsey!'&mdash;she
+as you know, Master Willie&mdash;and then I knew nothing until I woke up in
+a room where some kind people were rubbing me with hot flannels, and
+offering me hot stuff to drink. So soon as I could speak, 'Where's
+Ralph?' I says, looking round for him; and then I saw in their faces how
+it was; and they came round me, treating me quite tenderly like a child,
+though they were rough sailors. And one of 'em, a God-fearing man, who
+had spoken a bit to us many a time when we'd no parson, was put forward
+by them, and he comes and whispers to me, 'You'll see him again, George,
+when the sea shall give up its dead. You'll meet before the throne of
+God and of the Lamb.' Well, sir, I was but a poor frail mortal, and my
+senses left me again, and I was long of coming round. But ever since
+then, as I look at the wide water, I seem to hear a voice saying, the
+sea shall give up its dead, and we'll meet some day before the throne of
+God and of the Lamb. Yes; I'm not afraid of the open Book for him, poor
+boy, for long afore that day I knew he'd taken his sailing orders under
+the Great Captain. 'Father,' he's said to me, 'I know Jesus Christ has
+<i>died</i> for me; I must <i>live</i> for him.' And when the poor body was washed
+ashore, there was his little Testament in his pocket, all dripping with
+the sea water. I dried it, and found it could still be read, and even
+some of his marks; there's not another thing I prize so much."</p>
+
+<p>Old George took the little unsightly-looking volume from his pocket, and
+gave it reverently to us to look at, and Aleck and I bent over it
+together, and deciphered on the title-page, in crooked lines of round
+handwriting, the name, <i>Ralph Groves</i>&mdash;<i>his book</i>; and underneath was a
+verse of a hymn, evidently remembered and not copied, which must have
+been one of those sung amongst the Methodists on that part of the coast
+where, as George told me, Ralph used to attend their meetings.</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">"Lord Jesus, be my constant Guide,<br /></span>
+<span class="i2">Then when the word is given,<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Bid death's dark stream its waves divide,<br /></span>
+<span class="i2">And land me safe in heaven."<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>"You see, young gentlemen," resumed George, when we had given him back
+the little book, "things which seem hard to bear&mdash;ay, and <i>are</i> hard to
+bear now&mdash;are but little things after all, and will be as nothing in
+that day when all wrong words and tempers will seem great things, far
+greater than we sometimes think."</p>
+
+<p>Aleck and I had listened with full hearts to Groves's touching account
+of his son's death, and it was in a subdued quiet manner that we rose up
+from our meal and settled ourselves again in the boat. There was
+evidently an inward struggle going on in my cousin's mind, and I almost
+feared that he was going to ask my pardon, which I should have disliked,
+knowing myself to be so much the most in the wrong. It was quite a
+relief to find that in this I was mistaken; he only remained, as before,
+very silent; and I, too, was silent, and found myself, with eyes fixed
+on the water, thinking of George's son, and of the opened Book, and
+wondering concerning the things written therein, and whether all that
+had happened this day would be found there; whilst old George's words
+seemed to repeat themselves over in my mind, and I kept saying to
+myself, "The loss of the ship will be a very little thing then, whilst
+all wrong words and tempers will seem greater than we think."</p>
+
+<p>We had not resumed our search very long, when Aleck declared that he saw
+something white in the distance which he thought was the little vessel.
+We all eagerly turned our eyes in the direction indicated, and although
+no one felt very sure that we had at last discovered the object of our
+search, there was sufficient uncertainty to make us eager in pursuit. We
+had to tack frequently, but at last reached the little white thing which
+inspired our hopes, and, alas! discovered that it was only a whitened
+branch of a tree washed out from shore, on which the wet leaves
+glistened and shone in the afternoon sun. It was a fresh disappointment
+to us all, and the time our chase had occupied prevented the possibility
+of any further research. Even as it was, we were quite late in reaching
+the Cove, and found that my father had been on the watch for us with his
+telescope, and had been greatly perplexed by the erratic character of
+our movements.</p>
+
+<p>Of course he was instantly told the tragical history of our day. Aleck,
+whose sorrow had been renewed by our fruitless search, did not hesitate
+to lay emphasis upon the fact that I had been left alone at the Cove;
+and I was quite startled by the quick abrupt manner in which my father
+turned round to me and said,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Willie, did you meddle with the ship or the rope whilst Aleck was
+away?"</p>
+
+<p>But, thankful that the inquiry took this form, I was able to answer
+unhesitatingly,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"No, papa, I did not touch the boat once, or the rope either, this
+morning, and it's very, very wrong of Aleck to say that I did."</p>
+
+<p>Whilst Aleck, the dark angry look flashing once again from his eyes,
+exclaimed,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I know he hated my having the yacht; I'm sure he wanted me to lose it."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Gordon, although as much shocked at this outburst as George had
+been, was not disposed to treat the matter quite as he had done.</p>
+
+<p>That both of us were guilty of wrong temper there could be no doubt, but
+he saw also that there was still something to be cleared up; and instead
+of quenching the subject by telling us we had both behaved badly, and
+deserved to be unhappy, as is the self-indulgent custom of many grown-up
+people in the matter of children's quarrels, he forbade any further
+recrimination, and after dinner was over, calmly and quietly inquired
+into every particular of our story, with as much care as if he had been
+on his magistrate's bench in court, and this were a case of great
+importance; first questioning Aleck, and then myself.</p>
+
+<p>As my examination drew to a close, however, Aleck once again burst in
+with the determined assertion that I knew more than I had said.</p>
+
+<p>My mother, who was present, was indignant at his persistency, saying
+that in all my life I had never told a lie, and it was unpardonable thus
+to speak of me; whilst my father simply said, "Since you are not able to
+conduct yourself with propriety, Aleck, you must go to bed." And my
+cousin left the room accordingly, whilst I was subjected to the moral
+torture of a further cross-examination; from which, however, strong in
+the distinct assertion that I had not touched either rope or boat, I
+came off clear.</p>
+
+<p>One step, indeed, my father gained, in the course of his inquiry,
+towards the truth. In answer to one of his questions, I used the
+pronoun <i>we</i>.</p>
+
+<p>"Who's <i>we</i>?" asked my father, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"Frisk and I, papa."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you had Frisk with you, and I suppose as playful as usual?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, papa."</p>
+
+<p>"Did Frisk get at the ship or the rope, do you think?"</p>
+
+<p>"I never saw him touch the ship; I don't think he could touch it; but
+then I went to the meadow to fly the kite."</p>
+
+<p>"Did Frisk get near the rope?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, papa, just before I came away; but I didn't see him slip off the
+ring, though now I think he must have done so."</p>
+
+<p>"You think so because you saw him going near the rope?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, papa; but I can't tell you any more. I went to fly my kite, and
+Frisk came up quite panting soon after, having run hard because I had
+happened to leave him behind."</p>
+
+<p>"It was the dog did it," said my father quite decidedly, turning to my
+mother. "Willie, you should have been more careful; you might have known
+it was not safe to leave Frisk in the Cove; but I quite believe your
+word, and that you had no hand in the matter."</p>
+
+<p>Then the subject was dismissed: I played a game of chess with my mother,
+and finally went up to bed at the usual time, to receive, before going
+to sleep, the never-omitted visit, which was the peaceful closing to so
+many peaceful days.</p>
+
+<p>My mother stayed but for a moment on this evening, going on almost at
+once to my cousin's room.</p>
+
+<p>I heard all about that visit afterwards, so that I am able to tell what
+passed almost as well as if I had been present.</p>
+
+<p>My mother found Aleck lying wearily and restlessly in bed, with tearful
+eyes and hot flushed face, that told of sleep being by no means near.
+She sat down beside him and said, "It was a sad disappointment for you,
+Aleck, to lose your pretty new boat; and I daresay you feel it hard not
+to have your own dear mamma to tell all about it."</p>
+
+<p>Aleck tried to answer, but failed, bursting into tears instead, and my
+mother talked on in her gentle loving way until the sobs grew less
+frequent, and my cousin became at last quite calm. She told him that I
+had always spoken the truth&mdash;she little knew&mdash;and that she could not
+doubt my word, and that my father had become quite convinced it was the
+mischievous work of the dog that had brought about all this trouble; and
+then she made him feel how wrong it was to have accused me, instead of
+believing my word; so that, before she left the room, he had told her he
+was very very sorry for what he had said, and he hoped she and his uncle
+would forgive him, and that he meant to ask my forgiveness also. I know
+that my mother told him of a higher forgiveness that must be obtained
+before he could feel at peace with his conscience, and spoke to him
+somewhat in the same manner that George had, about trials great or small
+being kindly and lovingly permitted by a heavenly Father.</p>
+
+<p>I was almost asleep when my door opened, and the pattering of shoeless
+feet announced a visitor. Aleck was groping in the dark, and, guided by
+my voice, reached the bottom of my bed, discovered the mound raised by
+my feet, felt his way along the ridge of my person, and having arrived
+at my head, flung his arms around my neck, and kissing me warmly&mdash;in my
+eye by mistake&mdash;said he could not sleep until he had told me how sorry
+he was for having behaved so badly, and suspected me, and called me bad
+names. He was quite sure now that Frisk had done the mischief, and he
+hoped I would forgive him, adding that there was still just a chance of
+finding the vessel, and that he meant to be up very early, and out by
+six o'clock the next morning, to have a good look down in the White-Rock
+Cove. "I daresay I shall find it after all, Willie, and if not&mdash;why, I
+must finish the old thing we've been working at so long. But I once
+found a knife of mine after I had lost it a week in a hay-field; so you
+see I'm lucky." He kissed me again and went back to his bed, whilst I
+lay tossing and wakeful, full of shame and self-reproach, and yet more
+than ever built up in my determination that I would not, and could not,
+confess the whole truth; it would be too great a shame and humiliation
+after having so fully committed myself, and when my parents had
+expressed such perfect confidence in my truthfulness.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>CHAPTER VIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>ANOTHER SEARCH.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Half-past eight o'clock in the morning. The gong had sounded, and we had
+all assembled in the library for prayers. All but Aleck, who, for the
+first time since he had been with us at Braycombe, was not in his usual
+place.</p>
+
+<p>My father missed him, and turned to ask me where he was.</p>
+
+<p>"I expect he has gone out, papa," I replied; "he meant to go down to the
+shore to look for his boat."</p>
+
+<p>"If you please, sir," said Bennet the footman, "I saw Master Gordon
+quite early this morning, maybe about six o'clock; he telled me he was
+going down to look after the ship."</p>
+
+<p>Family prayer was concluded and breakfast began, and still Aleck did not
+appear. As he had no watch, it was not surprising that he should
+mistake the time to a certain extent; but we all wondered he should be
+so very late, and at last my father began to feel uneasy. "He must have
+been a long way off not to have heard the eight o'clock bell," he said;
+"yet he's a careful boy; it seems unlikely he should come to any harm."</p>
+
+<p>"Run out on the lawn, Willie," suggested my mother, "and take a good
+look round; perhaps he may be in sight."</p>
+
+<p>But although I put a liberal interpretation upon the direction, and not
+only ran out upon the lawn, but also down the drive for a little way,
+and up the overhanging bank, from which we could got a sight far off
+towards the White-Rock Cove, I could see nothing of my cousin, and
+returned breathless to the dining-room without the tidings that my
+parents expected.</p>
+
+<p>The post had come in whilst I was out, and my father was engaged in the
+perusal of a letter from Uncle Gordon, reading little bits of it aloud
+to my mother as he went on. "Just starting for the Pyrenees ... need
+send no letters for a fortnight ... address Poste Restante, Marseilles,
+after this; the constant change of air has done wonders," &amp;c. &amp;c. When
+the letter was finished, I saw there was one enclosed for Aleck, which
+according to custom I laid upon his plate, repeating, at the same time,
+that I had looked in every direction, but could see nothing of my
+cousin.</p>
+
+<p>"He must have gone down to the lodge, and perhaps Groves kept him,
+finding it was late, and gave him something to take," said my mother.
+Whereupon my father rung the bell, and desired Bennet to go down at once
+to the lodge and inquire whether Master Gordon had been there, whilst in
+the mean time I finished my breakfast, and was sent to the school-room
+to get my lessons ready for Mr. Glengelly.</p>
+
+<p>It was not long before my father came to me. "Willie," he said, "I can't
+understand what has kept Aleck, and I fear he may have hurt himself, and
+not be able to make his way home; so I am going out at once to look for
+him, and you must help me."</p>
+
+<p>There was something rather dignified in being thus spoken to by my
+father, and, had it not been for the secret load, of which I dared not
+tell him, but which already began to weigh with additional heaviness on
+my heart, I should have felt somewhat elated at finding myself of
+importance.</p>
+
+<p>My father continued in a quick, decided manner: "Leave your lessons, and
+run off at once to the lodge. If you find Ralph anywhere about, so much
+the better, he can go with you; in any case you and George could manage
+to get the little boat round to the White-Rock Cove, keeping in shore as
+nearly as George thinks safe, and keep a sharp look-out all the way
+along for your cousin.&mdash;Stay; on second thoughts Rickson shall run down
+to the Cove too, in case Ralph is not to be found; you will want another
+hand."</p>
+
+<p>I did not need twice telling, but was off in an instant, and, breathless
+with excitement, reached the lodge a few minutes after.</p>
+
+<p>My story was soon told, and George lost no time in getting out the
+smallest of our boats, and with Ralph, who happened, as George said, to
+be fortunately "handy" on the occasion, we started upon our search. I
+could not help thinking of the morning before, and its search, but the
+excitement now kept up my spirits; it was something so new to be thus
+suddenly dismissed from lessons, and trusted to help in what was
+evidently considered a matter of some anxiety; <i>why</i> they should be so
+anxious I did not trouble myself to reflect, having little idea but that
+Aleck had wandered further than he intended, and perhaps experienced
+some difficulty on his way home.</p>
+
+<p>We glided along quickly and pleasantly enough, past the first inlet, and
+the second, from our own Cove, scrutinizing all the banks, and rocks,
+and shady nooks, so familiar through many a wild exploring of ours; to
+reach the third we were obliged to stand out a considerable distance to
+sea, as the promontory bounding the White-Rock Cove on this side
+stretched far beyond the other rocky buttresses, making one of the most
+prominent land-marks in that part of the south coast. It was underneath
+its shelter that we had lunched the day before, and as we passed by the
+broad, flat stone in the little creek, the conversation we had had there
+repeated itself again and again in my mind.</p>
+
+<p>It was about half-past eleven o'clock when we had cleared this point,
+and George gave the order to haul down sail.</p>
+
+<p>"It's best to take to the oars now, Master Willie; we'd be a long while
+at it if we tacked&mdash;Now, Ralph, pull steady&mdash;You'll be about right if
+you keep her head straight for the White-Rock, Master Willie"&mdash;I was at
+the helm&mdash;"ease her, ease her a bit; more to port, sir, more to
+port&mdash;now steady again&mdash;now ship oars&mdash;the tide's running in pretty
+fast, and will carry us in." George's commands, thus given at intervals
+as we doubled the promontory and made for the Cove, alone broke silence,
+until, having shipped oars, there was nothing particular for him to do,
+and then all at once his tongue seemed unloosed. "Poor boy," he said,
+"it would be a sad day to us all if aught has happened amiss to him, and
+his parents too off in foreign parts. How cut up he was about his bit
+ship yesterday, but it matters little if he is safe to-day. I mind now
+he told me just afore we parted yesterday, that he thought it was quite
+possible our little ship might have driven ashore here. But I hope he
+hasn't been rash in trying to climb where it's dangerous even for an
+active boy like him."</p>
+
+<p>"He told me last night," I said, "that he meant to look all along the
+shore as far as this. Papa said we were to come here just in case&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>We were getting close into shore now, and Ralph, standing up in front of
+me, held his oar to push us off from the rocks until we reached our
+usual place for landing. George sat facing me, so that Ralph was the
+only one who was able to see well ahead at the moment. There was
+something in his manner which startled me, as he bent down all at once
+and simply said, "Grandfather!" George turned round in a moment, and his
+short ejaculation and smothered "Oh!" confirmed me in a terrible fear
+they had made some discovery, and almost at the same instant, leaning
+forward, I could see my cousin lying prostrate on the beach just by the
+White Rock, at the bottom of a steep part of the cliff, and scarcely a
+foot from the water's edge.</p>
+
+<p>I felt my knees shaking, as I tried to rise and could not; tried to
+speak, and the words died on my lips; then, for a moment, buried my face
+in my hands, and gasped out presently, "He's dead." I thought for a
+moment that I should die too, the sense of utter, hopeless, unbearable
+misery seemed so terrible.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a name="illus_171" id="illus_171"></a>
+<img src="images/illus_171.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<h3>THE DISCOVERY.</h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+
+<p>George only answered, "Please the Lord, Master Willie, it may not be so
+bad as that;" and hastily drawing in the boat to the rocks, he leapt
+ashore, and made his way, in less time than it takes to relate, to where
+my cousin was lying. Ralph and I got ashore also, but my knees trembled
+so that I could not stand, but sunk down upon the rock. Ralph flung the
+rope to me. "Keep her from drifting, master," he said, "and I'll run and
+help grandfather."</p>
+
+<p>It was a moment of terrible suspense. Groves knelt at Aleck's side, bent
+his cheek down to his lips, then listened for the beating of his
+heart&mdash;he might have heard mine at that minute&mdash;and then turning towards
+me he exclaimed, "He's still alive!"</p>
+
+<p>I had courage to move now, and fastening the rope, I came and stood by
+Groves, as he knelt on the beach beside Aleck. I could scarcely believe
+it was not death when I looked at the colourless face and closed eyes,
+and needed all Groves' reassurance to convince me that he had not been
+mistaken when he said my cousin was still alive.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank God, Master Willie, we came when we did!" he added reverently,
+and pointing to the waves as they washed up to our feet; "ten minutes
+more, and the tide will be up over this place where he's lying. We must
+move him at once&mdash;but he's deadly cold. Off with your jacket, Ralph and
+put it over him, and&mdash;oh! see here!" he pointed to the arm which hung
+down heavily as he gently raised the unconscious form,&mdash;"the arm's
+broken."</p>
+
+<p>The question now was how we were to get him home. By land it would not
+be more than an hour's climb; but then a <i>climb</i> it must be, and this
+was almost impossible under the circumstances; whilst, on the other
+hand, with the wind no longer in our favour, it would be a good two
+hours getting back by water, and there was the anxiety of not being able
+to let my father know.</p>
+
+<p>Whilst George was anxiously deliberating with himself&mdash;for neither of us
+boys were in a state to offer any suggestions&mdash;we looked up, and saw my
+father rapidly descending the hill-side.</p>
+
+<p>In another moment he stood in the midst of our little group, and had
+heard how it was with my cousin. "I feared so," he said, "when I saw you
+all standing together. Thank God, the child is still alive!"</p>
+
+<p>There was no longer any questioning of what was best to be done. My
+father was always able to decide things in a moment. "It would be too
+great a risk to carry him without any stretcher. We must take him round
+in the boat. How's the wind, George?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not favourable, sir; we must trust more to the oars."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you and Ralph must row. Willie, I think I can trust you, but
+remember a great deal may depend upon your carrying your message
+correctly. Run home as quickly as you can by the lower wood, it's quite
+safe that way; tell mamma that Aleck is hurt, and that Rickson must go
+off for Dr. Wilson in the dog-cart at once; if Dr. Wilson cannot be
+found, he must bring Mr. Bryant; and James must bring down the carriage
+to wait for us at the lodge. Don't frighten your mamma; tell her as
+quietly and gently as you can. If you meet Mr. Glengelly, tell him
+first, and he will break it to mamma. Do you quite understand?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, papa," I replied, thankful to have something given me to do, and
+yet feeling as if I were in the midst of a terrible waking dream. After
+my father had taken the precaution of once again repeating his
+directions, I sped off up the steep hill-side, by way of the lower wood,
+towards home, whilst he gently lifted up my cousin and carried him to
+the boat.</p>
+
+<p>I shall never forget that walk home&mdash;<i>walk</i> I call it, though, wherever
+running was possible, I <i>ran</i>. The feeling of misery and terror that was
+upon me, seemed to be mocked by the gay twittering of the birds, and the
+dancing of the sunbeams through the leaves, and the familiar appearance
+of the laden blackberry bushes, and copses famous for rich returns in
+the nutting season. Everything in nature looking so undisturbed and
+unaffected by what was filling me with grief, appeared to add to my
+wretchedness. All the way along, I had the vision of my cousin's pale
+face before my eyes. True, he was not dead; but, child that I was, I had
+sufficient sense to know that often death followed an accident which
+was not immediately fatal, and <i>if</i> he died it would be almost as though
+I had murdered him. I can remember trying hard to fancy it was a
+dreadful dream, and that I should wake up, as I had done on the
+preceding night, to find that my fears were all unreal; and as every
+step, bringing me nearer home, made this increasingly impossible to
+imagine, I changed the subject of my speculations, and took to
+remembering all the dreadful things I had ever read in history or
+story-books, of people dying of broken hearts, or living on and never
+smiling again, and fancying it was going to be the same with me; and I
+grew quite frightened, and trembled so much that I scarcely knew how to
+climb up the steep bits of the path.</p>
+
+<p>I was still about a quarter of a mile from the house when I met Mr.
+Glengelly, who was also on the search for Aleck. It was a wonderful
+relief to have some one to speak to after the long silence of the past
+hour, and to be cheered up by his assurance that a broken arm was no
+very formidable accident after all, and that a little severe pain, and a
+few weeks invalidism, sounded very alarming, but would in reality pass
+quickly by.</p>
+
+<p>"Then you think, perhaps Aleck won't die," I faltered, struggling to get
+breath, for the haste in which I had come had made speaking difficult.</p>
+
+<p>"Die!" echoed my tutor cheerily; "why, Willie, people don't die of a
+broken arm! I broke my arm when I was a little boy of twelve, and you
+see I'm alive still." I smiled faintly; it was so much better than
+anything I had expected to hear. "It's true," added the tutor, "that
+there may be more than the broken arm, but we must hope for the best. In
+the meantime, Willie, you have had enough running, you are quite out of
+breath, and had better come the rest of the way quietly; I will go on
+and carry out your father's directions."</p>
+
+<p>When I reached home every one seemed in a bustle, and too busy to take
+any notice of me. My mother indeed spared time to tell me I had been a
+good brave boy to come home so fast with the message, and that I had
+better go and sit quietly to rest in the school-room; but she hurried
+away immediately to finish her preparations, and I found she was getting
+the spare room next to her own ready for Aleck, instead of the little
+room next to mine.</p>
+
+<p>I had a lingering hope that Mr. Glengelly might appear in the
+school-room, but he had gone down with Bennet to the lodge to see if he
+could be of use when the boat came in, so that I was quite alone, and
+could only watch from the half-open door the doings of the servants as
+they passed to and fro, all seeming in a flutter, and as if it lay upon
+them as a duty to move about, and run hither and thither, without any
+particular object that I could discover.</p>
+
+<p>After about an hour, the sound of wheels on the drive announced the
+approach of the carriage. I sprang to my post of observation, and saw
+Aleck, still deathly pale, and unconscious, carried carefully in by my
+father and Mr. Glengelly, and my mother on the first landing of the
+stairs, looking terribly anxious but perfectly composed, beckoning them
+up, as she said to my father,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Everything is ready, dear, in the room next to ours."</p>
+
+<p>Then they all went up-stairs, and I saw nothing more until, a few
+moments later, Mr. Glengelly looked in and told me I was to go to dinner
+by myself, as he was going to drive to Elmworth at once, and my parents
+could not come down-stairs.</p>
+
+<p>It seemed strange and forlorn to go into our large dining-room, and sit
+at the table all by myself, whilst James stood behind me and changed my
+plate, and handed me the dishes all in their proper order, as if I had
+been grown up. I was hungry, or rather, perhaps, stood in need of food,
+after the morning's exertions, but I felt quite surprised at my own
+utter indifference as to <i>what</i> I had to eat, when I had the opportunity
+of an entirely free selection. I took my one help of tart, and a single
+peach, without the shadow of a desire such as is common to children, and
+which I should in happier times unquestionably have shared, to improve
+the occasion by a little extra allowance.</p>
+
+<p>I had scarcely finished when my mother came in for two or three minutes.</p>
+
+<p>"Mamma," I said, running eagerly to her, "do tell me, will Aleck die?"</p>
+
+<p>"My darling," she answered, "we cannot say how much he is hurt until the
+doctor comes;" and she stooped down to kiss away the tears that came to
+my eyes when I noticed the sad, quiet voice with which she spoke, so
+unlike Mr. Glengelly's cheerful, re-assuring manner. "You must pray to
+God, my child, that if it be His will he may recover, and try to cheer
+up, because there is still hope the injury may not prove very serious;
+we must hope for the best. I am going to bring papa up a glass of wine
+and a biscuit; will you carry up the plate for me?"</p>
+
+<p>Just as we were going up-stairs, she added, to comfort me,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Willie, my child, how thankful I feel that you had nothing to do with
+the loss of the ship."</p>
+
+<p>At which, observation&mdash;from her point of view, consolatory; from mine,
+like a dagger-thrust&mdash;I became so convulsed with sobs, that my mother
+slipped into the room where Aleck was, laid down the plate and the
+wine-glass, and returning again, took me down to the school-room, and
+simply devoted herself for some minutes to soothing me back into
+composure. She rose to go, but I clung to her dress; "Mamma, mamma," I
+entreated, "don't leave me, please don't leave me."</p>
+
+<p>"I <i>must</i> leave you, Willie," she answered, "and you must try to bear up
+bravely for my sake, and for Aleck's. You will do what you can to help
+in this sad time of trouble, and not add to my distress by giving way
+like this. You are over-tired, I think, and had better take a book, and
+stay here for the present, and lie down on the sofa and rest.
+Afterwards, if you like, you can go in the garden."</p>
+
+<p>I preferred remaining in the school-room; I could see the hall-door, and
+up the first flight of stairs, and could hear the opening and shutting
+of doors up-stairs, and occasional remarks from passers through the
+hall, so that I felt less lonely than I knew I should feel in the
+garden. Frisk came and sat with his fore-paws on my lap&mdash;he seemed aware
+that something had gone wrong&mdash;and wagged his tail, not merrily, but
+slowly and mournfully, as if to express, after his fashion, how truly he
+sympathized in our distress.</p>
+
+<p>At last, once again there was the sound of wheels; it was the dog-cart
+this time, and Frisk threw back his head, pricked up his ears, and,
+with a quick bark, darted off to sanction the arrival of the doctor with
+his presence.</p>
+
+<p>My father, too, was at the hall-door in an instant.</p>
+
+<p>"I am thankful to see you," he said, as the doctor sprung from the
+dog-cart; "you have heard the circumstances?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have," answered Dr. Wilson, following my father quickly up-stairs.
+"Is he still unconscious?"</p>
+
+<p>The answer was lost to me; but all at once, as I thought of Dr. Wilson,
+and how much depended upon his visit, the recollection of my mother's
+words came back to me, "We must pray God, Willie, if it be His will
+Aleck may get better;" and with a sudden impulse I jumped up, shut the
+door, and kneeling down, with my head pressed upon my hands, I prayed
+with a sort of intensity I had never known before: "O Lord, make Aleck
+well, do make Aleck well, don't let him die,"&mdash;repeating the words over
+and over again, and getting up with some dim sense of comfort in my
+mind, as I thought that God had the power as much now as when in our
+human nature He walked upon this world, to heal all that were ill; and
+had He not said, "Ask, and you shall receive?"</p>
+
+<p>Why was it that the verse which I had repeated that morning to my
+mother, after breakfast, came back so often to my mind? "<i>If I regard
+iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.</i>" Generally my mother
+explained my daily text, but this morning, owing to the anxiety about
+Aleck's disappearance, there had not been the usual time, and she had
+simply heard the verse, and sent me off, as before-mentioned, to the
+school-room. Now I took to explaining it for myself. What business had I
+to pray with that iniquity hidden in my heart, of which no one knew but
+God? How could I get forgiven? what was I to do?</p>
+
+<p>Conscience took courage and put in the suggestion, "Confess boldly to
+your parents the sin that is lying so heavily upon you." But then the
+thought that, if Aleck never got better, they would think me his
+murderer, took possession of me, and I took pains to convince myself,
+against my own reason, that after all, I had not actually been guilty
+of falsehood, since the real manner in which the ship had been lost was
+actually guessed by my father; that it would do no good if I were to
+give them the pain of knowing that I had allowed it to happen, having it
+in my power to prevent it; that, after all, it would be enough to
+confess to God and get forgiven.</p>
+
+<p>But the reasoning, though for a time it silenced the promptings of
+conscience, did not give me peace of mind; and a sense that I could not
+pray&mdash;that, at least, my prayers would do no good&mdash;took from me the only
+comfort that was worth thinking of.</p>
+
+<p>I was so taken up with these reflections, that I never heard steps upon
+the stairs, and started with an exclamation almost of fright when the
+door opened rather quickly, and my father and Dr. Wilson came in.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, Willie, there's nothing to be frightened at," exclaimed my father.
+"Here's Dr. Wilson come to cheer us up about Aleck, who is to get quite
+well by-and-by, we hope."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, yes, little man," said Dr. Wilson, kindly chucking me under the
+chin, after a fashion which I have noticed prevails amongst grown-up
+tall people who are amiably disposed towards children; "we shall soon
+hope to bring him round again. With all your monkey-like ways of
+climbing about the rocks, my only wonder is I've not had you for a
+patient long ago!"</p>
+
+<p>Something seemed to strike him in the face he was holding up by the
+chin, and releasing me from a quick glance of inspection, he asked
+presently whether I had seen Aleck, and listened to the account I had to
+give of how Ralph had first noticed him lying at the foot of the rock.</p>
+
+<p>Then he and my father stepped out by the window, and walked up and down
+on the lawn; and I heard Dr. Wilson say to my father, "Any one can see
+the boy has had a shock; take care he does not get frightened."</p>
+
+<p>From the fragments of conversation which reached me,&mdash;sitting as I did
+in the open window, whilst they passed by, walking up and down on the
+lawn outside,&mdash;I gathered that they were discussing the possibility of
+communication with Uncle and Aunt Gordon; and as they came in again
+through the school-room, my father said, "You are sure that the crisis
+will be over by that time?"</p>
+
+<p>"Quite sure. There is nothing for it now but perfect quiet, the
+administration of the medicines and cordials I have prescribed, when
+possible, and close watch of all the symptoms. I can assure you I am not
+without hope. You may look for me again by ten o'clock."</p>
+
+<p>And so saying, Dr. Wilson drove rapidly off, and my father went back
+again to Aleck's room. I think it must have been his planning, that
+nurse soon afterwards came down to the school-room and bestowed her
+company upon me for quite a long time, entertaining me at first, or
+meaning to entertain me, by a wearisome narration about a little boy who
+lived nowhere in particular a long time ago; but she wakened up all my
+interest when at last, unable to keep off the subject as she had
+intended, she gave me a detailed account of my cousin having been put
+into the bed in the spare room; and how he had lain so still, she could
+scarcely believe her senses he was not dead; and how, when Dr. Wilson
+set his arm, the pain of the operation seemed to waken him up for a
+moment from the stupor, but he had gone back again almost immediately.
+"The doctor said," she added, "that it was the injury to the head that
+was of the greatest consequence&mdash;the arm was nothing to signify, a mere
+simple fracture; as if a broken arm were a mere nothing. I should like
+to know whether, <i>if his own</i> were broken, he would call it a simple
+fracture, and say it didn't signify!" And nurse looked righteously
+indignant, and as if she would be rather glad than otherwise for Dr.
+Wilson to meet with an accident, and learn, by personal experience, the
+true measure of insignificance or importance attaching to a broken limb.
+Remembering, however, at this point, the inconvenience which might
+result to ourselves from such a catastrophe, she retreated from the
+position, and took to speculating what the doctor's views were likely to
+be with reference to his night accommodation; whether he would go
+"between sheets," or merely lie down on the sofa, and what motives might
+be likely to influence him towards either decision; reasoning it all out
+to me as if I had been grown-up.</p>
+
+<p>In fact, one of the peculiar sensations which are stamped upon every
+recollection of that long sad day, was that of being treated as though I
+were a "person," and not a child, by almost every member of the
+community; a sensation bringing with it a dim sense of glory&mdash;that might
+have been&mdash;but which my guilty position kept me back from enjoying.</p>
+
+<p>Both my parents came down to a sort of dinner-tea, which we had together
+at about seven o'clock, and my mother stayed a little while with me
+afterwards, and then sent me off, rather earlier than usual, to bed,
+upon the plea of my being weary with the long, anxious day.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX"></a>CHAPTER IX.</h2>
+
+<h3>SORROWFUL DAYS.</h3>
+
+
+<p>To bed; but not to my usual peaceful sleep; for all the night through
+one terrible dream seemed to succeed the other, until, in the act of
+landing at the White-Rock Cove, and calling for help, I woke at last to
+find myself standing somewhere in the dark, I could not at first make
+out where, though it turned out to be in Aleck's room, to which I had
+made my way in my sleep.</p>
+
+<p>I began to cry with fright, and my father came running up to see what
+was the matter. He was quite dressed, and brought a candle with him, and
+looked so natural and real that he chased away all spectral frights.
+After he had put me back to bed, and sat with me a little, I fell into a
+quieter sleep than I had had before; and slept on, indeed, quite late,
+for nobody called me the next morning, and I did not come down until
+prayers were over, and breakfast just about to commence.</p>
+
+<p>Only my father and Dr. Wilson were in the room. My father looked very
+anxious; but Dr. Wilson spoke to me cheerily enough.</p>
+
+<p>"So this is the young gentleman," he said, drawing me towards him, "that
+is not content to walk by day, but must needs walk by night also!" and
+he looked straight at me, as if he could read me through and through;
+whilst I, knowing the dreadful story hidden in my heart, felt quite
+alarmed lest he might read <i>that</i> there; and I could feel the beatings
+of my heart, as if a steam-engine were at work, as I tried not to meet
+the glance of those keen, piercing eyes.</p>
+
+<p>He released me after a moment, and presently afterwards said to my
+father,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Close your lesson-books for a while; the boat and the saddle will be
+the best lesson-books, or you may have more trouble than you think of."</p>
+
+<p>I felt sure what he said had something to do with me, and wondered what
+he meant,&mdash;finding the explanation in Mr. Glengelly's strange
+indisposition to give me anything but a drawing-lesson that morning, and
+taking me off for a long ride before dinner, contrary to all established
+customs.</p>
+
+<p>Aleck grew no better all through the day, and the next night he was
+worse.</p>
+
+<p>On Saturday morning, two other doctors came to consult with Dr. Wilson;
+and I could read in the grave faces around me that the worst was
+apprehended. But I saw scarcely anything of my father or mother, or even
+nurse, so that all tidings from the sick-room came through remote
+channels&mdash;servants who had taken something up to the room, or Mr.
+Glengelly, who had seen one of the doctors for a moment, and whom I
+suspected of keeping back the full gravity of the verdict.</p>
+
+<p>If I could only have seen my father or mother alone quietly, without
+their being in a hurry, I thought I should have told them everything;
+but no opportunity presented itself, and another weary day wore by
+without any unburdening of my conscience, or relief to my gloomy
+anticipations.</p>
+
+<p>Sunday morning! Such a happy day generally! for my parents contrived to
+make it really, and not nominally, the best of all the seven; but now,
+how dreary was the awakening to a Sunday which I expected to be only the
+melancholy repetition of the preceding days, if not far sadder!</p>
+
+<p>The weather had turned chilly, and the servants, to make things look a
+little brighter, made this the excuse for a fire in the dining-room, by
+which I crouched down on the rug, after breakfast, with a Sunday
+story-book in my hand, wondering whether I should go to church, or what
+would happen in a state of things so different from what was usual; and
+why it was I was told I need not prepare my repetition lesson from the
+Bible, according to custom. By-and-by my father came in and told me to
+get ready to go with him to church; he thought he might safely leave
+Aleck for a little while, and would like to have me walk with him.</p>
+
+<p>We had not far to go, for the church stood but a quarter of a mile from
+our house, and there was a direct pathway to it through the woods. I
+thought perhaps I should muster courage to open my heart to my father as
+we went along. But first we met one person and then another, anxious to
+know the last report from the sick-room, so that we had no time alone,
+and I had to reserve my confession until we should come home after
+church. Aleck was to be prayed for in church, my father told me; and he
+added that I was to think of Uncle and Aunt Gordon too, in the Litany,
+for it would be a sore trouble to them to have been away from their only
+child in such a time as this. And then he spoke to me of childish fears
+about death, and said that, for those who were safe in Jesus, death was
+a friend, and not an enemy; and that I must pray that, if it pleased God
+Aleck should never get well, he might go to the beautiful home prepared
+for all the children of God: and the firm grasp of my father's hand, and
+his clear, unhesitating voice, conveyed to my timorous, troubled heart,
+a sort of belief in a calm, sheltered haven, that might succeed in time
+to the outside tossings on stormy waters, and I felt comforted, though I
+scarcely knew how.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Morton, our clergyman, was away for a month's holidays, and it was a
+stranger who performed the service. When I heard the prayers of the
+congregation requested for "Alexander Ringwall Gordon, who was
+dangerously ill," it seemed almost more than I could bear, the long
+formal enunciation of his name sounding so terribly like a
+death-warrant.</p>
+
+<p>If ever I tried to <i>pray</i> the Church prayers, and not merely say them,
+it was that morning; and it seemed to me quite wonderful how much of
+them agreed with my own feelings, how many things there were in the
+service that were exactly what I wanted. Hitherto the singing had
+appeared the only attractive portion of divine worship; but now that,
+for the first time in my life, I knew what it was to have a really
+sin-burdened conscience, the sweetest music seemed as nothing in
+comparison with the assurance that a broken and contrite spirit would
+not be despised of God, or to the comfort of ranking myself unreservedly
+amongst the miserable sinners in the Litany&mdash;concerning whom I had
+hitherto only wondered, Were they so miserable after all?&mdash;and pleading
+alike with voice and heart for God's mercy, of which I felt myself to
+stand so sorely in need.</p>
+
+<p>The Commandments were being read when the little door leading into our
+large family-pew was opened, and Rickson softly came in and whispered to
+my father, who in his turn leant over and whispered to me. A message had
+come from the house, he said, and he must go back at once; he knew I
+could be trusted to stay by myself and walk home afterwards. He and
+Rickson quietly slipped out, and I was left sole tenant of the large
+square pew, with its high partition, and ponderous chairs, and
+fire-place, and table, just like a small room, as is the custom in
+old-fashioned churches.</p>
+
+<p>Very lonely indeed I felt, as I stood up by myself, and tried to join in
+the hymn, and wished that I were not so small or the pew not so lofty;
+it seemed so strange to be joining in singing with people of whom no
+single individual could be seen&mdash;it had never struck me before, with my
+own dear parents always at my side. Presently the clerk appeared opening
+the door of the pulpit&mdash;that at all events I could see&mdash;to the strange
+clergyman, who seemed to me to look with a searching glance of inquiry
+straight down into my solitary domain, as if he meant to call me to
+account for being there all alone.</p>
+
+<p>Having nobody to look at as an example, I sat myself timidly upon a
+corner of one of the chairs after the hymn was over, and then, suddenly
+remembering I had made a mistake, knelt down with the colour mounting to
+the very roots of my hair, and a terrible sense of the congregation all
+looking at me and taking notes of my behaviour.</p>
+
+<p>We smile at our childish embarrassments as we look back upon them, but
+they are very serious and real troubles whilst they last.</p>
+
+<p>When I rose from my knees, I was far too shy to place myself
+comfortably, but sat, as before, upon a little corner of a chair, and
+hoped the congregation wouldn't take any notice, whilst mentally I
+prepared myself for unrestrained meditation on the all-engrossing
+subject of my thoughts, in place of the many speculations with which I
+was wont to beguile sermon-time in general.</p>
+
+<p>For here I must pause to observe that Mr. Morton's sermons were usually
+entirely beyond my childish understanding, and attention to them on my
+part was practically in vain; so that after learning the text by heart,
+which I was always expected to repeat perfectly afterwards, I used to
+spend a great part of the time remaining to me in a minute survey of all
+objects falling within the limited range of my observation, including
+especially the monumental tablets, of which there were many on the
+church walls; those on the right being for the most part to the memory
+of the Grants of Braycombe; those on the left to the successive rectors
+of Braycombe parish, who had lived and died after what seemed to me
+boundless periods of ministry amongst their attached flock.</p>
+
+<p>Two of these tablets in particular had supplied much food for
+consideration in my early days.&mdash;I used to look back upon early days
+even at ten years old with a sort of affectionate patronage.&mdash;These
+tablets exactly corresponded with each other in size and position, and
+were both beyond the range of complete legibility, only words in
+capitals coming out distinctly. But these very words in capitals were
+the cause of my anxious meditations. For on the one hand I read the name
+of the "Rev. Joseph Brocklehurst, Rector," with, a line or two further
+down, "Mary, wife of the <i>above</i>;" whilst on the other, which was to the
+memory of my grandfather, my own name at full length, "William Preston
+Grant," was underneath the only other word I could distinguish, and that
+word was "<i>Below.</i>" Many a Sunday did I ruminate upon the unpleasant
+contrast which, to my mind, was suggested by the two prepositions
+between the present condition of the Rev. Joseph Brocklehurst and that
+of my grandfather; and it was not without some hesitation that I
+revealed my perplexity to my father at last, by the abrupt inquiry, one
+day on our way home from church, whether my grandfather had been a
+<i>very</i> wicked man. Greatly surprised were both my parents at this
+unlooked-for question, and I believe not a little amused at the train of
+reasoning which had led me to it; but they took an early opportunity of
+taking me into the church, not on a Sunday, and permitting me to go near
+to the tablets, pointing out the connecting words which were not
+legible, and which supplied a full explanation of all that I wanted to
+know, and showing me that the <i>below</i> referred to the position of the
+family vault under the church, and the <i>above</i> to the relative position
+of the Rev. J. Brocklehurst's name to that of his wife.</p>
+
+<p>Often after that explanation I thought, as I looked at the tablets, of
+the words my father said to me at the time: "Willie, there are many
+things in God's dealings with his children that are hard to understand
+<i>here</i>; by-and-by, when we see things nearer, in the light of eternity,
+we shall find out that our difficulty has just been because here we see
+in part&mdash;as you did the inscriptions&mdash;but <i>then</i> we shall see face to
+face, and know even as we are known."</p>
+
+<p>There was another monumental tablet about which I thought a great deal,
+which preached to me a silent sermon as often as I looked at it. Under
+the name and date of birth and death of the person it commemorated were
+the words, "<i>Prepare to meet thy God.</i>" I spent a long time looking for
+them in my Bible, and thought a great deal about the verse when I had
+found it; wondering whether the young midshipman, son of one of the
+rectors, upon whose monument it had been engraved, had thought about
+them too, or whether it was a sort of warning because he had <i>not</i>
+prepared. It was upon this latter train of thought, with reflections
+concerning Aleck and myself woven into it&mdash;<i>I</i> clearly not prepared, and
+wondering whether Aleck was prepared&mdash;that I found myself starting as I
+settled shyly upon my little corner of the chair, and looked timidly for
+my Bible in order to find the text.</p>
+
+<p>What was my surprise when Psalm lxvi. 18 was given out, and the
+well-known words, so often repeated to myself, were repeated slowly and
+impressively by the stranger clergyman from the pulpit&mdash;"If I regard
+iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me."</p>
+
+<p>It seemed to me so wonderful and so strange that he should have fixed
+upon the very passage that I had thought of so often within the previous
+two days, that at first I almost fancied I was dreaming. But I felt
+still more surprised when, after anxiously attending to what was said
+for a few minutes, I found the sermon was as easy to understand as my
+mother's conversation after a Bible reading: all inattention was gone,
+and for the first time in my life I was listening with interest deep
+and anxious, whilst the clergyman, in simple language, explained the
+text so clearly that not one in the church need have gone away
+uninstructed.</p>
+
+<p><i>The</i> great question that I wanted to hear answered was, Whether, in my
+circumstances, with an unconfessed sin lying heavily on my heart, it was
+of any use for me to pray to God for Aleck?&mdash;what was the exact meaning
+of <i>regarding iniquity</i> in my heart?</p>
+
+<p>The very first words of the sermon landed us in the midst of the
+question. "Unforgiven sin," said the clergyman, "is a barrier between
+our souls and our God." And presently afterwards he referred us to
+Isaiah lix. 2: "Your iniquities have separated between you and your God,
+and your sins have hid his face from you that he will not hear;" and to
+a long passage in the 1st chapter of Isaiah, finishing with the words,
+"When ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of
+blood." Then he spoke to the congregation of the many Sundays during
+which they had come together to worship, whilst in the case of many of
+them their lives were unsanctified, their religion for one day in seven
+only, not for the whole week;&mdash;they loved their sins and would not give
+them up on any account, hoping to square their account with God by an
+outward attendance on Divine worship. It was all put in very simple
+language; and we were told to look back into one week of our lives to
+find out whether we were <i>fighting against</i> sin as an enemy, or
+<i>cherishing</i> sin as a friend: and if living in sin, as servants of
+Satan, we had the solemn truth to lay home to our consciences that our
+prayers never reached heaven; the promise, true for the children of God,
+that he would hear and answer prayer, was not true for those who were
+the servants or slaves of sin.</p>
+
+<p>Then there was an appeal to those who felt conscious of sin and wished
+for forgiveness, and I felt I belonged to that class, and listened with
+increasing eagerness. Was it for them to say, "I must then reform my
+ways and make myself better before I can go to Christ for pardon?" Oh,
+no! The prayer of the publican, "God be merciful to me a sinner," was
+heard and answered. Christ's invitation was addressed to the weary and
+<i>heavy laden</i>, "Come unto <i>Me</i>." He died to take our punishment instead
+of us; and those who, instead of cherishing sin, felt it a burden too
+heavy for them to bear, were to bring it and lay it down at the foot of
+the cross, and find rest to their souls.</p>
+
+<p>There followed a few words about sins <i>forgiven</i> being sins <i>forsaken</i>.
+Any person who had been in the habit of dishonest dealing would adopt
+habits of rectitude, and would make restitution when possible. Those who
+had uttered falsehoods would no longer persist in untruthfulness, but
+would speak the whole truth, even if to their own cost. And all this
+would be because Christ <i>had</i> forgiven them, and not in order to <i>obtain
+forgiveness</i>. I do not remember the rest of the sermon, but just at the
+end there was a beautiful piece about the happiness of finding the great
+barrier gone:&mdash;Just as when a little child, conscious of some wrong
+action, feels ashamed to meet the eyes of its loving parents, and is
+conscious of a separation that casts a dark shadow over all the usual
+home happiness, at last, with repenting heart and quivering voice,
+whispers in the loving ears of father or mother the secret trouble that
+lies heavily upon the sin-burdened conscience, and in the tender embrace
+of forgiveness finds pardon and peace: so with the sinner who has found
+peace at the foot of the cross; the barrier of separation is no more;
+the way into the holiest is made manifest by the blood of the Atonement;
+and the promise is written in letters of gold, "<i>If ye abide in me, and
+my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will and it shall be done
+unto you.</i>"</p>
+
+<p>Before I left the church, and took my solitary walk home through the
+wood, I had made up my mind to confess all to my parents at the very
+earliest opportunity; and with this determination there was already a
+sense of relief.</p>
+
+<p>But the opportunity did not occur so soon as I had expected; for I found
+a solitary dinner awaiting me, and the whole of that long afternoon,
+except for the servants, who brought a message once or twice from the
+sick-room to the effect that my parents dared not leave even for a
+minute, I was quite alone, either sitting on the hearth-rug by the fire,
+or standing at the door listening for any footstep on the passage
+up-stairs, or even the opening or shutting of doors.</p>
+
+<p>At last, at about five o'clock, I heard my father coming softly
+down-stairs, and sprang to meet him. "Papa, papa, tell me, is Aleck
+better?"</p>
+
+<p>"I fear not, my child," answered my father gently. "I think, Willie,
+that God is going to take him to Himself. But he is conscious just now,
+and wants to see you. He has asked that he may wish you good-bye. You
+must be very quiet indeed, and speak very gently."</p>
+
+<p>I felt the tears coming hot and fast, and there was a terrible choking
+in my throat; but it was impossible to hold out one moment longer, and,
+struggling through my sobs, I gasped out, "Oh, papa, I have killed
+him!&mdash;it's all my fault!&mdash;oh! what shall I do?" and I clung,
+terror-stricken, to the hand which he had placed on my shoulder.</p>
+
+<p>My father sat down, and tried to soothe me, putting his arm around me,
+and saying kind, comforting words, evidently at a loss to understand the
+purport of my broken utterances, whilst I tried, and tried in vain, to
+control my sobs, and regain sufficient composure to explain.</p>
+
+<p>At last he said firmly,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"This agitation would do Aleck grievous harm; I must not take you to him
+until you are quite calm, Willie, and yet the moments are precious: keep
+what you have to say until another time, and try to stop crying; I shall
+have to go up-stairs without you, unless you can be ready soon."</p>
+
+<p>Then he gave me a glass of water, and still telling me not to speak,
+waited until I had mastered my emotion and was tolerably calm, then led
+me by the hand up to Aleck's room.</p>
+
+<p>"Wish me good-bye," I said over and over to myself. Such a long
+good-bye, how could I bear it!</p>
+
+<p>There was no one else in the room at the moment but my mother, who sat
+at the foot of the bed with something in her hand for Aleck. It was not
+until I had advanced nearly to the bed that, with tear-blinded eyes, I
+could distinguish my cousin's face. It was so deadly pale that I started
+at the sight; but though pale and wan he was perfectly conscious, and
+as I drew near he whispered softly,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"I'm so glad you've come, Willie&mdash;I wanted to see you, and wish you
+good-bye." There was a pause, and then more faintly he continued,&mdash;"I
+want to be quite sure you've forgiven me, Willie;&mdash;Jesus has; I've asked
+him."</p>
+
+<p>I bent forward and kissed the white face that lay so quiet and still,
+struggling to keep down my sobs, though I felt as if my heart would
+break, and longing to be able to say but one word, that Aleck might know
+it was I who asked his forgiveness, but longing in vain.</p>
+
+<p>"You forgive me quite, Willie," murmured Aleck again.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a name="illus_209" id="illus_209"></a>
+<img src="images/illus_209.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<h3>WILLIE AT ALECK'S BED SIDE.</h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+
+<p>But at the first attempt to speak, I broke down utterly, with such a
+burst of pent-up grief, that to control it was impossible, and I was
+hurried quickly out of the room, lest my emotion should be injurious to
+Aleck; my mother herself almost carrying me down-stairs, and sorely
+divided between the desire to stay and comfort me, and at the same time
+to remain at her post up-stairs with my cousin.</p>
+
+<p>For a few minutes, however, she remained with her arm around me, and my
+head resting on her shoulder; and when, by degrees, I grew a little more
+calm, though it cost a fearful effort, I contrived to sob out my
+confession, and let her know how wicked I had been, and also how
+miserable. I could see it was a terrible shock to her when she grasped
+my meaning, and she did not attempt to disguise the pain it cost her.
+For the first time in my life I saw my mother shed tears. But the
+knowledge of my guilt seemed to add to her pity for me.</p>
+
+<p>"My poor little Willie," she said; "you have indeed had a terrible load
+upon your heart; your punishment has come more quickly upon you and more
+heavily than sometimes happens: but remember there is One whose blood
+cleanses from all sin&mdash;the heavenly Father's ear is open to you, Willie,
+through Jesus, and you must get forgiveness where those who really seek
+it are never turned away."</p>
+
+<p>"I wanted to tell Aleck, mamma, too; but I couldn't."</p>
+
+<p>"There is no need to trouble Aleck about that now," said my mother
+sorrowfully: "the ship seems a little thing to him now, Willie; his
+thoughts are on the great things of eternity. It might agitate him, and
+it would not make him happier to know about it; but if you like I will
+tell him that you love him dearly, and are very sorry for everything you
+have ever done that may not have been kind."</p>
+
+<p>Even this message, vague as it was, seemed better than none, and I
+thankfully endorsed it.</p>
+
+<p>"But oh, mamma," I added, "do tell me that you think it just possible he
+may get well again. I think it will kill me if he does not."</p>
+
+<p>"He is in God's hands, Willie," answered my mother, "and with God all
+things are possible; but I fear there is little hope of his getting any
+better. Dr. Wilson does not say there is <i>no</i> hope, but the other
+doctors quite gave him up. I do not hide it from you, my child, because
+it is easier to know the worst than to be in doubt and suspense; and God
+will help you&mdash;help us all&mdash;to bear it."</p>
+
+<p>There were tears in my mother's eyes and a tremble in her voice as she
+said this, and as it rushed upon me all at once how greatly it must add
+to her trouble to know that I was the cause of it, my own grief seemed
+rekindled. She gently unclasped my hands, which were tightly locked
+around her.</p>
+
+<p>"I must leave you now, my poor child," she said; "I cannot stay a minute
+longer away from Aleck;" and stooping down, she kissed me in spite of my
+wickedness, and went away up-stairs; whilst I, throwing myself upon the
+sofa, buried my head in my hands, and wept until, from sheer exhaustion,
+I seemed to grow quiet at last, whilst the day-light faded away, and the
+faint flickering of the fire-light produced mysterious shadows on the
+ceiling, and made the things in the room assume to my fevered
+imagination weird and fanciful shapes.</p>
+
+<p>But there was a species of dim comfort in watching the fire; and a
+comfort, too, in spite of my misery, in the recollection that I had
+confessed my sin&mdash;that it was no longer a dread secret in my own sole
+keeping, but was shared by the strong, tender hearts, of my parents: and
+it seemed to come soothingly to my mind that now the barrier of sin
+might be taken away, and my heart rose once again in earnest prayer to
+God for forgiveness. Then I began to think about the great things of
+eternity my mother had spoken of; and of the meeting-time for those who
+were parted on earth, of Aleck, and of Old George, and his son&mdash;Ralph's
+father; and of what Groves said about the open book; and then came the
+recollection of the sea-stained little Testament, and the quaint verse
+at its beginning, and the young sailor's profession of faith, "Father,
+He died for me, I must live for Him." My mind travelled from one thought
+to another, whilst ever and anon a struggling sob for breath seemed like
+the subsiding of a tempest. Shaping themselves into more or less
+definite plans, came thoughts, too, of the future before me in this
+world:&mdash;I should never be quite happy any more, I thought; but I would
+try to keep on, like Ralph's father, living for Christ in some way, and
+grow up to be very good&mdash;perhaps I should be a missionary&mdash;I was not
+quite sure on the whole what sphere of life would be the most trying or
+praiseworthy&mdash;and then at last Aleck and I would meet in heaven. This I
+believe to have been the last point of conscious reflection, for more
+and more vague and desultory became my thoughts afterwards. Nature would
+have her revenge for all the restlessness and anxiety of the past few
+days. I fell into a profound sleep.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X"></a>CHAPTER X.</h2>
+
+<h3>SUNDAY EVENING.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Where I was, why I was where I was, and what time of the day or night it
+might happen to be&mdash;were questions which presented themselves to my mind
+in hazy succession, as, roused from my slumbers by the hum of voices, I
+woke slowly to the consciousness that, though I had been asleep, I was
+not in bed. It was only by a very gradual process of recollection that
+the past came back upon me almost like a fresh story, and I was at least
+a minute rubbing my eyes, and collecting my thoughts, before I took in
+all the familiar objects in the room, from the sofa on which I found
+myself reposing, to the fire-place at which, with their backs turned to
+me, my father and Dr. Wilson were in close conversation. My father's
+voice was low and serious, and at the moment when, having finished the
+process of awakening, I was going to speak, his words came slowly and
+distinctly to my ears, and sank down into my heart:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"The thought of his parents' grief on hearing of the death&mdash;such a
+death, too!&mdash;of their only child, has been almost more than I could
+bear."</p>
+
+<p>Aleck was dead!&mdash;there was no hope left! I thought; and with a piteous
+exclamation of grief, I turned round and hid my face in my hands,
+leaning up against the sofa.</p>
+
+<p>In another moment my father was at my side. I felt his arm encircling me
+as he drew me towards him, and bending down, whispered softly,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"It is no time for grief now, Willie; I was speaking of what <i>might</i>
+have been; let us give God thanks, for the danger is over&mdash;Aleck is
+spared to us."</p>
+
+<p>I slowly drew back my hands from my face. The relief was so great I
+could scarcely believe in it; and I must have appeared&mdash;as I certainly
+felt&mdash;utterly bewildered, whilst I tried to find words, and only at last
+succeeded in repeating my father's mechanically:</p>
+
+<p>"The danger is over&mdash;Aleck is spared to us."</p>
+
+<p>"To be sure he is," said Dr. Wilson, in his cheeriest tones. He had got
+up from his chair, and was standing with his back to the fire looking at
+us. "Yes, he'll be quite well again by-and-by; and all the more prudent,
+we'll hope, for the trouble he's been putting us in during these last
+few days. He's had a lesson that ought to last for some time to come;
+but boys never learn their lessons, do what one will to make them."</p>
+
+<p>There was a moment's pause after this discouraging general statement
+with reference to boys; and then the doctor added, as if thinking to
+himself, in quite a different tone:</p>
+
+<p>"Poor boy! poor boy! it's been a very near thing. By the help of God,
+we've brought him through. May it be a life worth the saving&mdash;a life
+given back to God!"</p>
+
+<p>"Amen!" ejaculated my father, earnestly; and then, at his suggestion, we
+knelt together, and, in a few heartfelt words, he offered thanks to the
+heavenly Father for his goodness to us, and turned kind Dr. Wilson's
+aspiration into a prayer, that the life given back to my cousin might
+be by him given back to God.</p>
+
+<p>I knew, as I knelt there by my father's side, for the first time in my
+life, the feeling of a deep and speechless thankfulness, for which all
+words would be too poor.</p>
+
+<p>It was very late&mdash;past ten o'clock&mdash;but I was not allowed to go up to
+bed at once. Supper was ready, my father said, and I should come into
+the dining-room, and have it with him and Dr. Wilson. Accordingly, in
+spite of all remonstrances of nurse, who put in her appearance, and
+thought fit to reflect upon the utter impropriety of such late hours, I
+went to supper; and felt, moreover, greatly refreshed and strengthened
+by it, sitting there close by my father's side, and rejoicing every
+moment of the time in the feeling as of a great deliverance.</p>
+
+<p>So it came to pass that my second night did not begin until eleven
+o'clock.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI"></a>CHAPTER XI.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE WHITE-ROCK COVE AGAIN.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Aleck was a long time getting well. He had to be nursed and taken care
+of all through that winter, only gradually making little steps towards
+recovery.</p>
+
+<p>It was quite a festival when he was first carried down-stairs; and then
+again when he was taken out in the carriage for a drive, lying at full
+length upon a sort of couch which we erected for him, and to which he
+declared, in my anxiety to make him comfortable, I had contributed all
+the sofa cushions in the house.</p>
+
+<p>The subject of the lost ship was forbidden for a long while; and I grew
+to thinking of it as a sort of formidable undertaking, though one upon
+which I was firmly bent&mdash;the confession to Aleck himself of my guilt in
+the matter.</p>
+
+<p>But when at last I was permitted to approach the subject, I could only
+feel surprised that I had been for so long afraid of it. Aleck received
+my confession so quietly, instead of getting angry, and spoke so kindly
+and gently, that I could scarcely believe it was the same Aleck whose
+look of fiery indignation on that eventful morning of the 20th of
+September had so startled me.</p>
+
+<p>In one way, indeed, he was <i>not</i> the same; for the accident, and illness
+consequent on it, seemed in some peculiar manner to have rendered him
+far more lovable and thoughtful than he had been formerly; a trifle
+graver, perhaps&mdash;at least I thought so, until, when he grew quite strong
+again, his merry laugh would ring out as cheerily as ever&mdash;and more
+serious in his way of looking at things, but not less happy. That I was
+sure of; for all through the long weeks of confinement there was not a
+brighter place in the house than the place at the side of his couch&mdash;he
+was so uniformly cheerful, and seemed so thoroughly to enjoy every
+little plan that we were able to form for his amusement.</p>
+
+<p>I told him I was quite surprised that he received my confession so
+gently; it would have been so natural if he had got angry. I remember
+his answer very well:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Why, you see, Willie, it seems quite a little thing to me now. I don't
+think I can exactly put what I mean into words; but you know when I
+thought I was dying, and eternity seemed quite near, everything else
+seemed so little&mdash;only, the wrong words I had used to you seemed much
+worse than I had thought they could. Old George's words came back to me
+so often, about the loss of the ship being a very little thing; whilst
+wrong words and angry feelings would appear more terrible than we ever
+fancied possible. I was dreadfully frightened until I felt quite sure I
+was forgiven. You can't think how glad I was when I got your message."</p>
+
+<p>"I wanted to tell you," I said, "when I came into your room that time;
+but I couldn't speak, though I nearly choked in trying to stop crying."</p>
+
+<p>"Well since then," resumed Aleck, "the feeling doesn't seem to have gone
+off. I don't mean I don't care for things, because you know I like
+everything very much&mdash;our games, and the books, and madrepores; but I
+feel as if before my accident God and heaven and the Bible were all
+being put by, and got ready, for the time when one was old and grown up,
+and I've felt so different since then. It was when I felt so frightened
+at the thought of what a naughty boy I was, and of all the bad things I
+had done, and began to tell Jesus about it&mdash;in my heart, you know, for I
+couldn't speak&mdash;and remembered he was so good and kind he never turned
+any one away, and so felt sure he had heard me, that I began to think so
+differently."</p>
+
+<p>At this point of Aleck's narration I broke in impetuously with&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, Aleck! for <i>you</i> to be feeling like that&mdash;you, who had only felt
+angry&mdash;what would you have done if you had been me?" And then I
+proceeded, with feelings of unconcealed horror, to tell him of my misery
+during the few days succeeding the loss of the boat; the terrible walk
+home that morning; the lonely terrors of the nights; and my feelings at
+church with that verse always sounding in my ears, "If I regard iniquity
+in my heart, the Lord will not hear me."</p>
+
+<p>Before I had finished my story Aleck had got hold of one of my hands,
+and was stroking it as if he had been a girl. "You see," I said, "I was
+feeling rather like you, only I couldn't know I was forgiven, with that
+dreadful sin that no one knew of."</p>
+
+<p>"We had both done wrong," Aleck replied; "it doesn't much signify which
+of us was worst. Willie, do you know I want us always to do something
+together that we haven't done before."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it?" I inquired.</p>
+
+<p>"I should like us to read a little bit of the Bible together every day,
+quite for our own selves; not like a lesson, you know, nor even having
+auntie to explain it to us, but just for our own selves, like when I
+have one of papa's or mamma's letters to read. I think it would help us
+to remember the really great things better, like auntie's text in my
+room."</p>
+
+<p>I need scarcely say that the habit&mdash;afterwards continued, whenever
+practicable, through our school-life&mdash;was at once begun. In fact,
+Aleck's merest wish was a law to me; for all through the winter months
+every opportunity of rendering him any service was hailed with delight.
+I could never forget that his weakness and suffering were the result of
+my wicked behaviour, and could only comfort myself by doing all that in
+me lay to make his confinement as little wearisome as possible. Knowing
+his active, restless nature, I could fully appreciate what the trial
+must be, even with every alleviation, and often wondered he was able to
+bear it so cheerfully.</p>
+
+<p>But when I ventured to express to my cousin these speculations of mine,
+he would laugh them off merrily.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, Willie, how can I help being thankful and happy? Not to speak of
+uncle and aunt, who seem to be doing something for me every hour of the
+day; nor of old George, who toils up every morning to see me, though he
+used to tell me that it made his old bones ache&mdash;a fact he will never
+allow now; nor of Frisk, who sits upon my feet for hours, on purpose to
+keep them warm; I should like to know how I could help being cheerful,
+with your own dear old self giving up the greater part of your play-time
+to chess, or carpentry, or madrepores, and spending every penny of your
+pocket-money&mdash;No; it's of no use your stopping me to deny it. I've
+counted up, and you've spent every penny of your pocket-money&mdash;just as I
+was saying&mdash;in buying books, or tools, or things for me; waiting upon
+me, too, as if I were a prince and you my slave. Why, I'm perfectly
+afraid of admiring anything you have, lest I should find it done up in a
+parcel, and sent to me, like the illustrated copy of 'Robinson Crusoe'
+the other day!"</p>
+
+<p>In this sort of grateful spirit, making much of all my little trifling
+acts of kindness, Aleck scarcely allowed us to feel that he was
+under-going any deprivation during the months that he lay on the sofa.</p>
+
+<p>Once only I remember noticing a little cloud, that vanished again almost
+as soon as it appeared. One morning, after lessons were over, I came
+running into the study with my Latin exercise.</p>
+
+<p>"Papa, Mr. Glengelly was so pleased with my exercise, he has sent me in
+to show it to you."</p>
+
+<p>My father looked over it, reading little bits aloud, and finding with
+surprise that, difficult though it was, there were no mistakes. From my
+father's table I flew to the sofa on which Aleck was lying, with Frisk
+at his feet as usual, the open copy-book in my hand. But in an instant I
+could see there was some trouble in my cousin's face.</p>
+
+<p>"Aleck, dear Aleck," I whispered anxiously, "what is it? Have I done
+anything?"</p>
+
+<p>"No&mdash;nothing at all," replied my cousin with a great effort, and hastily
+brushing away his tears. "Let me have a look at it too. I'm ashamed of
+myself, Willie. I believe I was making myself unhappy at thinking that I
+shall just have gone back as much as you've gone forward. I didn't know
+I cared so much for being first in my lessons."</p>
+
+<p>After that I avoided ever talking of my lessons when Aleck was in the
+room; but he noticed this, and insisted on introducing the subject,
+speaking often to Mr. Glengelly about my progress, and looking over my
+exercises from time to time, whilst he would playfully remark that "we
+should be about equal when he was allowed to begin lessons again, and
+better companions than ever before."</p>
+
+<p>Sometimes he wondered at my getting on so much faster than formerly, not
+knowing the spirit of resolve and determination that had grown out of
+all the sad time of trouble, when I had found out for the first time
+what a poor sinful child I was, and had learned to seek and find for
+myself the sure Refuge and Strength&mdash;not for times of trouble only, but
+for the whole of life's journey.</p>
+
+<p>From the circumstance of my play-time being in great part spent with my
+cousin, at least such part of it as was not taken up in rides or drives
+with my parents, it came to pass that my visits to the Cove were far
+less frequent than they had been at any previous time. But though old
+George growled and grumbled at seeing so little of me, he always
+encouraged me not to desert my cousin.</p>
+
+<p>Now and then, however, I found my way down the Zig-zag to the lodge, and
+it was upon one of these occasions that I unburdened my mind to my old
+friend of a desire, which grew and strengthened upon me, in some way to
+provide for Aleck a boat which should be quite equal to the one he had
+lost. I knew it was worth a great deal more than I should be able to
+save in pocket-money, and a vague idea of the possibility of bartering
+some of my possessions had been dismissed as impracticable.</p>
+
+<p>To part with the "Fair Alice" without old George's sanction would not be
+right, but if he would make no objection, it seemed to me that this
+would be on the whole the easiest mode of reparation, and I took him
+into consultation on the subject accordingly.</p>
+
+<p>"I know it's your present to me, George," I said, feeling sadly alive to
+the delicacy of the request; "but if you'll give me leave, I think it's
+the only thing I have that would do to give Aleck. I can't think of any
+other way. I know it took you a tremendous time to make, and I care for
+it more than for anything. But I would rather give it to Aleck."</p>
+
+<p>Old George chuckled rather provokingly, and seemed to be taken up with
+some abstruse calculation. "Well, I won't be against it, Master Aleck,"
+he said, "unless&mdash;no&mdash;I'm not sure&mdash;" (the old man seemed to grow quite
+composed in his uncertainty), "I think&mdash;I may show you." And so saying
+he led the way into the work-shop.</p>
+
+<p>I started with surprise&mdash;another little schooner-yacht was in course of
+construction, precisely similar to the one that had been lost.</p>
+
+<p>"O George, how kind!"</p>
+
+<p>"No; it's not a bit kind," responded George, "for I'm being paid for it.
+I meant to have done it without, but your papa, sir, has insisted upon
+it being his order, and I've been obliged to cave in."</p>
+
+<p>It was to be a secret from Aleck, however.</p>
+
+<p>How hard it was to keep that secret, when, every time there was a talk
+of Aleck's being able to get down to the Cove, I was on the point of
+letting out what he was to see there!</p>
+
+<p>I did contrive to keep it, however; and when at last February was
+ushered in with a burst of warm weather that tempted all the little buds
+to unfold themselves with a perfectly reckless disregard of the cold
+that was sure to follow, and primroses and violets to start into blossom
+as though they could not lay the bright carpet for spring's advance too
+soon, Dr. Wilson decreed that nothing would do his little patient more
+good than a couple of hours of the freshest sea breezes, caught and
+partaken of on the spot, a mile off from shore;&mdash;which meant that Aleck
+had leave to go to the Cove once more, and out upon the sea for a sail.</p>
+
+<p>Of course I had a whole holiday for the occasion; and I had satisfaction
+in observing that I was not the only one unable to settle down into
+quiet occupation. The carriage was nearly ready to drive my parents and
+Aleck down to the lodge, when I started off by way of the Zig-zag, to
+the Cove.</p>
+
+<p>There was the new yacht, already decked from bow to stern with the tiny
+flags which I had been collecting for weeks past. All the sails were
+set, but a little anchor&mdash;also my addition to the furniture of the new
+vessel&mdash;kept her safely moored; and as she curtsied upon the water,
+every sail and flag reflected as in a mirror, I thought I had never seen
+anything so pretty.</p>
+
+<p>Perhaps Aleck thought so too, for when he arrived a few minutes after,
+leaning on my father's arm, he seemed as if he could not speak, and had
+to sit down quite quietly in the boat whilst he drew the yacht close up
+to the side, and looked at it all over. Then he turned to my father,
+and said something about not being able to thank&mdash;and at this point
+broke down in a manner that was so singularly infectious, that no one
+was found able to break the silence at first.</p>
+
+<p>My father said presently, however, "You must carry him off to sea,
+George; and I shall call you to account if those pale cheeks don't
+gather roses from the crests of the waves."</p>
+
+<p>Then we drew up the anchor of the little yacht, and pushed off from the
+shore. A basket of provisions had been placed in the boat, and before we
+had been very long out at sea, George insisted upon its being unpacked,
+threatening Aleck that he should be reported as insubordinate unless he
+consumed precisely the quantity of wine and the whole amount of cold
+chicken dealt out to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Willie," whispered my cousin to me, after dutifully doing his best at
+the luncheon, "I want very much indeed to go to the White-Rock Cove&mdash;do
+you think George will let us?"</p>
+
+<p>Certainly I did <i>not</i> think so, but Aleck wished it, and that was quite
+enough to make me join earnestly in his entreaties that we should turn
+the boat's head round in the direction he wished.</p>
+
+<p>Groves consented at last, but not without many misgivings, the
+White-Rock Cove being, he said, about the last place he'd have thought
+of taking us to; and sentiments to the same effect were respectfully
+echoed by Ralph, who, in my private belief, had held the place in
+superstitious horror ever since the 20th of September.</p>
+
+<p>All of us, however, yielded as a matter of course when it was found
+Aleck had set his mind upon it; and the wind being favourable, we were
+not very long in rounding Braycombe headland.</p>
+
+<p>Once in the Cove, my cousin asked me to land with him, requesting George
+and Ralph to leave us ashore a little while.</p>
+
+<p>"It must have been almost exactly here, I think," said Aleck, leading
+the way to the spot which I remembered only too vividly, and glancing
+round to assure himself that our companions were out of sight. "Willie,
+I want us to thank God here, on the very spot&mdash;there's no one to see
+us&mdash;let us kneel down."</p>
+
+<p>We knelt together at the foot of the White Rock; Aleck, who was still
+very weak, leaning against me for support. They were only a few childish
+words he said, but they came from a full heart; and I never remember in
+later life any liturgical service in church or cathedral that stirred my
+feelings more deeply than that simple thanksgiving. Nor even now, after
+the lapse of many a long year, can I visit that little retired nook in
+the dear Braycombe coast, and hear the plash of the ripple, and the flap
+of the sea-gulls' wings, and the echoing murmurs of the sea in the
+caverns, without being carried back by a rush of tender recollection to
+that day when all Nature's sweet voices seemed to be uniting in one hymn
+of praise, taking up and beautifying and repeating the utterance of two
+little thankful hearts&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>"We praise Thee, O God."</p>
+
+
+<p>THE END</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Story of the White-Rock Cove, by Anonymous
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE ***
+
+***** This file should be named 22404-h.htm or 22404-h.zip *****
+This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:
+        http://www.gutenberg.org/2/2/4/0/22404/
+
+Produced by Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe, Mary Meehan and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+(This file was made using scans of public domain works in
+the International Children's Digital Library.)
+
+
+Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions
+will be renamed.
+
+Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no
+one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation
+(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without
+permission and without paying copyright royalties.  Special rules,
+set forth in the General Terms of Use part of this license, apply to
+copying and distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works to
+protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm concept and trademark.  Project
+Gutenberg is a registered trademark, and may not be used if you
+charge for the eBooks, unless you receive specific permission.  If you
+do not charge anything for copies of this eBook, complying with the
+rules is very easy.  You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose
+such as creation of derivative works, reports, performances and
+research.  They may be modified and printed and given away--you may do
+practically ANYTHING with public domain eBooks.  Redistribution is
+subject to the trademark license, especially commercial
+redistribution.
+
+
+
+*** START: FULL LICENSE ***
+
+THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE
+PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK
+
+To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free
+distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work
+(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project
+Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full Project
+Gutenberg-tm License (available with this file or online at
+http://gutenberg.org/license).
+
+
+Section 1.  General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic works
+
+1.A.  By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to
+and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property
+(trademark/copyright) agreement.  If you do not agree to abide by all
+the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or destroy
+all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your possession.
+If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound by the
+terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person or
+entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8.
+
+1.B.  "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark.  It may only be
+used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who
+agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement.  There are a few
+things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works
+even without complying with the full terms of this agreement.  See
+paragraph 1.C below.  There are a lot of things you can do with Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this agreement
+and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works.  See paragraph 1.E below.
+
+1.C.  The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the Foundation"
+or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection of Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic works.  Nearly all the individual works in the
+collection are in the public domain in the United States.  If an
+individual work is in the public domain in the United States and you are
+located in the United States, we do not claim a right to prevent you from
+copying, distributing, performing, displaying or creating derivative
+works based on the work as long as all references to Project Gutenberg
+are removed.  Of course, we hope that you will support the Project
+Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting free access to electronic works by
+freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm works in compliance with the terms of
+this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with
+the work.  You can easily comply with the terms of this agreement by
+keeping this work in the same format with its attached full Project
+Gutenberg-tm License when you share it without charge with others.
+
+1.D.  The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern
+what you can do with this work.  Copyright laws in most countries are in
+a constant state of change.  If you are outside the United States, check
+the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this agreement
+before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, distributing or
+creating derivative works based on this work or any other Project
+Gutenberg-tm work.  The Foundation makes no representations concerning
+the copyright status of any work in any country outside the United
+States.
+
+1.E.  Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg:
+
+1.E.1.  The following sentence, with active links to, or other immediate
+access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear prominently
+whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work on which the
+phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the phrase "Project
+Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, performed, viewed,
+copied or distributed:
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+1.E.2.  If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is derived
+from the public domain (does not contain a notice indicating that it is
+posted with permission of the copyright holder), the work can be copied
+and distributed to anyone in the United States without paying any fees
+or charges.  If you are redistributing or providing access to a work
+with the phrase "Project Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the
+work, you must comply either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1
+through 1.E.7 or obtain permission for the use of the work and the
+Project Gutenberg-tm trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or
+1.E.9.
+
+1.E.3.  If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted
+with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution
+must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any additional
+terms imposed by the copyright holder.  Additional terms will be linked
+to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works posted with the
+permission of the copyright holder found at the beginning of this work.
+
+1.E.4.  Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this
+work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm.
+
+1.E.5.  Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this
+electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without
+prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with
+active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project
+Gutenberg-tm License.
+
+1.E.6.  You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary,
+compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including any
+word processing or hypertext form.  However, if you provide access to or
+distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format other than
+"Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official version
+posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm web site (www.gutenberg.org),
+you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense to the user, provide a
+copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means of obtaining a copy upon
+request, of the work in its original "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other
+form.  Any alternate format must include the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1.
+
+1.E.7.  Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying,
+performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works
+unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.
+
+1.E.8.  You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing
+access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works provided
+that
+
+- You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from
+     the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method
+     you already use to calculate your applicable taxes.  The fee is
+     owed to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he
+     has agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the
+     Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation.  Royalty payments
+     must be paid within 60 days following each date on which you
+     prepare (or are legally required to prepare) your periodic tax
+     returns.  Royalty payments should be clearly marked as such and
+     sent to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the
+     address specified in Section 4, "Information about donations to
+     the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation."
+
+- You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies
+     you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he
+     does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+     License.  You must require such a user to return or
+     destroy all copies of the works possessed in a physical medium
+     and discontinue all use of and all access to other copies of
+     Project Gutenberg-tm works.
+
+- You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of any
+     money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the
+     electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days
+     of receipt of the work.
+
+- You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free
+     distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works.
+
+1.E.9.  If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic work or group of works on different terms than are set
+forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing from
+both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and Michael
+Hart, the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark.  Contact the
+Foundation as set forth in Section 3 below.
+
+1.F.
+
+1.F.1.  Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable
+effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread
+public domain works in creating the Project Gutenberg-tm
+collection.  Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may contain
+"Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate or
+corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other intellectual
+property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or other medium, a
+computer virus, or computer codes that damage or cannot be read by
+your equipment.
+
+1.F.2.  LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right
+of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project
+Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all
+liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal
+fees.  YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT
+LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE
+PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH F3.  YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE
+TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE
+LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR
+INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
+DAMAGE.
+
+1.F.3.  LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a
+defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can
+receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a
+written explanation to the person you received the work from.  If you
+received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium with
+your written explanation.  The person or entity that provided you with
+the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in lieu of a
+refund.  If you received the work electronically, the person or entity
+providing it to you may choose to give you a second opportunity to
+receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund.  If the second copy
+is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing without further
+opportunities to fix the problem.
+
+1.F.4.  Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth
+in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS' WITH NO OTHER
+WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO
+WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTIBILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE.
+
+1.F.5.  Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied
+warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of damages.
+If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement violates the
+law of the state applicable to this agreement, the agreement shall be
+interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or limitation permitted by
+the applicable state law.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any
+provision of this agreement shall not void the remaining provisions.
+
+1.F.6.  INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the
+trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone
+providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in accordance
+with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the production,
+promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works,
+harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, including legal fees,
+that arise directly or indirectly from any of the following which you do
+or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this or any Project Gutenberg-tm
+work, (b) alteration, modification, or additions or deletions to any
+Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any Defect you cause.
+
+
+Section  2.  Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of
+electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of computers
+including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers.  It exists
+because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations from
+people in all walks of life.
+
+Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the
+assistance they need, is critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's
+goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will
+remain freely available for generations to come.  In 2001, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure
+and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future generations.
+To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation
+and how your efforts and donations can help, see Sections 3 and 4
+and the Foundation web page at http://www.pglaf.org.
+
+
+Section 3.  Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive
+Foundation
+
+The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit
+501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the
+state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal
+Revenue Service.  The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification
+number is 64-6221541.  Its 501(c)(3) letter is posted at
+http://pglaf.org/fundraising.  Contributions to the Project Gutenberg
+Literary Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent
+permitted by U.S. federal laws and your state's laws.
+
+The Foundation's principal office is located at 4557 Melan Dr. S.
+Fairbanks, AK, 99712., but its volunteers and employees are scattered
+throughout numerous locations.  Its business office is located at
+809 North 1500 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887, email
+business@pglaf.org.  Email contact links and up to date contact
+information can be found at the Foundation's web site and official
+page at http://pglaf.org
+
+For additional contact information:
+     Dr. Gregory B. Newby
+     Chief Executive and Director
+     gbnewby@pglaf.org
+
+
+Section 4.  Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg
+Literary Archive Foundation
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide
+spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of
+increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be
+freely distributed in machine readable form accessible by the widest
+array of equipment including outdated equipment.  Many small donations
+($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt
+status with the IRS.
+
+The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating
+charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United
+States.  Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a
+considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up
+with these requirements.  We do not solicit donations in locations
+where we have not received written confirmation of compliance.  To
+SEND DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any
+particular state visit http://pglaf.org
+
+While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we
+have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition
+against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who
+approach us with offers to donate.
+
+International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make
+any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from
+outside the United States.  U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff.
+
+Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation
+methods and addresses.  Donations are accepted in a number of other
+ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations.
+To donate, please visit: http://pglaf.org/donate
+
+
+Section 5.  General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works.
+
+Professor Michael S. Hart is the originator of the Project Gutenberg-tm
+concept of a library of electronic works that could be freely shared
+with anyone.  For thirty years, he produced and distributed Project
+Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of volunteer support.
+
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed
+editions, all of which are confirmed as Public Domain in the U.S.
+unless a copyright notice is included.  Thus, we do not necessarily
+keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition.
+
+
+Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility:
+
+     http://www.gutenberg.org
+
+This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm,
+including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary
+Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to
+subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks.
+
+
+</pre>
+
+</body>
+</html>
diff --git a/22404-h/images/cover.jpg b/22404-h/images/cover.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ff1f70e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-h/images/cover.jpg
diff --git a/22404-h/images/illus_004.jpg b/22404-h/images/illus_004.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f656325
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-h/images/illus_004.jpg
diff --git a/22404-h/images/illus_027.jpg b/22404-h/images/illus_027.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..48e3747
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-h/images/illus_027.jpg
diff --git a/22404-h/images/illus_061.jpg b/22404-h/images/illus_061.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..950c40a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-h/images/illus_061.jpg
diff --git a/22404-h/images/illus_171.jpg b/22404-h/images/illus_171.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..52a67de
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-h/images/illus_171.jpg
diff --git a/22404-h/images/illus_209.jpg b/22404-h/images/illus_209.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..4f1bc00
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-h/images/illus_209.jpg
diff --git a/22404-page-images/c001.jpg b/22404-page-images/c001.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..32a7601
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/c001.jpg
diff --git a/22404-page-images/f001.png b/22404-page-images/f001.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d29e78c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/f001.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/f002.jpg b/22404-page-images/f002.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..286e089
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/f002.jpg
diff --git a/22404-page-images/f003.jpg b/22404-page-images/f003.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..3a133ca
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/f003.jpg
diff --git a/22404-page-images/f004.jpg b/22404-page-images/f004.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..eeed414
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/f004.jpg
diff --git a/22404-page-images/f005.png b/22404-page-images/f005.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..cee533a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/f005.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/f006.png b/22404-page-images/f006.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9043191
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/f006.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p009.png b/22404-page-images/p009.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ac5d925
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p009.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p010.png b/22404-page-images/p010.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..58a2b16
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p010.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p011.png b/22404-page-images/p011.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7b8102e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p011.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p012.png b/22404-page-images/p012.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..52fe812
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p012.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p013.png b/22404-page-images/p013.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..22b9edf
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p013.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p014.png b/22404-page-images/p014.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..338760f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p014.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p015.png b/22404-page-images/p015.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f760ae3
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p015.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p016.png b/22404-page-images/p016.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..60eac57
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p016.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p017.png b/22404-page-images/p017.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6066c24
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p017.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p018.png b/22404-page-images/p018.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a07ddda
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p018.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p019.png b/22404-page-images/p019.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..80357ca
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p019.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p020.png b/22404-page-images/p020.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..1effa58
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p020.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p021.png b/22404-page-images/p021.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a6f0fe9
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p021.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p022.png b/22404-page-images/p022.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..711a451
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p022.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p023.png b/22404-page-images/p023.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d96b28b
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p023.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p024-insert.jpg b/22404-page-images/p024-insert.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..76971e2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p024-insert.jpg
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p024.png b/22404-page-images/p024.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..53e9caa
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p024.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p025.png b/22404-page-images/p025.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a7f5952
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p025.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p026.png b/22404-page-images/p026.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9c6d5f6
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p026.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p027.png b/22404-page-images/p027.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..755f1a2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p027.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p028.png b/22404-page-images/p028.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..3774b78
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p028.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p029.png b/22404-page-images/p029.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..3ec1792
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p029.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p030.png b/22404-page-images/p030.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..605b002
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p030.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p031.png b/22404-page-images/p031.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d814606
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p031.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p032.png b/22404-page-images/p032.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a131c79
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p032.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p033.png b/22404-page-images/p033.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..e619de1
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p033.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p034.png b/22404-page-images/p034.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..58092a2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p034.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p035.png b/22404-page-images/p035.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f1dd2cc
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p035.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p036.png b/22404-page-images/p036.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d71e396
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p036.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p037.png b/22404-page-images/p037.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..4fd4eeb
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p037.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p038.png b/22404-page-images/p038.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a5409c2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p038.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p039.png b/22404-page-images/p039.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..385e6c6
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p039.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p040.png b/22404-page-images/p040.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..3e89a52
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p040.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p041.png b/22404-page-images/p041.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..67d6197
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p041.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p042.png b/22404-page-images/p042.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d1c0cf0
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p042.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p043.png b/22404-page-images/p043.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d2a113f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p043.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p044.png b/22404-page-images/p044.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..077cf71
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p044.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p045.png b/22404-page-images/p045.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..4fecc0d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p045.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p046.png b/22404-page-images/p046.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d5820eb
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p046.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p047.png b/22404-page-images/p047.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..4d0e211
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p047.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p048.png b/22404-page-images/p048.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..67c0f56
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p048.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p049.png b/22404-page-images/p049.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..8ae2e23
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p049.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p050.png b/22404-page-images/p050.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..efb9457
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p050.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p051.png b/22404-page-images/p051.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..b911faa
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p051.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p052.png b/22404-page-images/p052.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..cacea8d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p052.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p053.png b/22404-page-images/p053.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..2dd1f81
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p053.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p054.png b/22404-page-images/p054.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..831ac1d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p054.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p055.png b/22404-page-images/p055.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f3b8dae
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p055.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p056-insert.jpg b/22404-page-images/p056-insert.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..e1723a8
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p056-insert.jpg
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p056.png b/22404-page-images/p056.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..b64a042
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p056.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p057.png b/22404-page-images/p057.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f691802
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p057.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p058.png b/22404-page-images/p058.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..142a4e0
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p058.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p059.png b/22404-page-images/p059.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..400bd5e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p059.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p060.png b/22404-page-images/p060.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ae3b796
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p060.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p061.png b/22404-page-images/p061.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..1edb741
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p061.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p062.png b/22404-page-images/p062.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..1a59a7e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p062.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p063.png b/22404-page-images/p063.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..5e51b37
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p063.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p064.png b/22404-page-images/p064.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f859c96
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p064.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p065.png b/22404-page-images/p065.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..831e03a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p065.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p066.png b/22404-page-images/p066.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..fef55b2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p066.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p067.png b/22404-page-images/p067.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a744ce0
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p067.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p068.png b/22404-page-images/p068.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..3a52bdd
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p068.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p069.png b/22404-page-images/p069.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7abf396
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p069.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p070.png b/22404-page-images/p070.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9d72dc4
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p070.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p071.png b/22404-page-images/p071.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d7f2a50
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p071.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p072.png b/22404-page-images/p072.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f0ab000
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p072.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p073.png b/22404-page-images/p073.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..8dd56ca
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p073.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p074.png b/22404-page-images/p074.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f7c69f0
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p074.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p075.png b/22404-page-images/p075.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..e336c83
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p075.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p076.png b/22404-page-images/p076.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..09fe1f9
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p076.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p077.png b/22404-page-images/p077.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d6d73fa
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p077.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p078.png b/22404-page-images/p078.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..545eab9
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p078.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p079.png b/22404-page-images/p079.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..e129b46
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p079.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p080.png b/22404-page-images/p080.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..fbe6868
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p080.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p081.png b/22404-page-images/p081.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..4a3c4df
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p081.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p082.png b/22404-page-images/p082.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..834d63c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p082.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p083.png b/22404-page-images/p083.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ccac142
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p083.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p084.png b/22404-page-images/p084.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..48f8f18
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p084.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p085.png b/22404-page-images/p085.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..969ac76
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p085.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p086.png b/22404-page-images/p086.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a96320f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p086.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p087.png b/22404-page-images/p087.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..3fdc7a7
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p087.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p088.png b/22404-page-images/p088.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..443ed97
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p088.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p089.png b/22404-page-images/p089.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0577186
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p089.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p090.png b/22404-page-images/p090.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..285ac96
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p090.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p091.png b/22404-page-images/p091.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9034d27
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p091.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p092.png b/22404-page-images/p092.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..cdf93aa
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p092.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p093.png b/22404-page-images/p093.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a407170
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p093.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p094.png b/22404-page-images/p094.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7215d7a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p094.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p095.png b/22404-page-images/p095.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..5181432
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p095.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p096.png b/22404-page-images/p096.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0a36f4f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p096.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p097.png b/22404-page-images/p097.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..89fe91a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p097.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p098.png b/22404-page-images/p098.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a864538
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p098.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p099.png b/22404-page-images/p099.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0205f98
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p099.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p100.png b/22404-page-images/p100.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..46cdc82
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p100.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p101.png b/22404-page-images/p101.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..eb11ba6
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p101.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p102.png b/22404-page-images/p102.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9ad2d87
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p102.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p103.png b/22404-page-images/p103.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..aee44d1
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p103.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p104.png b/22404-page-images/p104.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7d8b3d1
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p104.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p105.png b/22404-page-images/p105.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6aabe76
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p105.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p106.png b/22404-page-images/p106.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..38c8e42
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p106.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p107.png b/22404-page-images/p107.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..63e6aaa
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p107.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p108.png b/22404-page-images/p108.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..10bdeb7
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p108.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p109.png b/22404-page-images/p109.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..29a4529
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p109.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p110.png b/22404-page-images/p110.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d6af508
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p110.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p111.png b/22404-page-images/p111.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..19c345c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p111.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p112.png b/22404-page-images/p112.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c410072
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p112.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p113.png b/22404-page-images/p113.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..21182c2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p113.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p114.png b/22404-page-images/p114.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..1d4e1fb
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p114.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p115.png b/22404-page-images/p115.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..13df271
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p115.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p116.png b/22404-page-images/p116.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c8f0e6a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p116.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p117.png b/22404-page-images/p117.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d290330
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p117.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p118.png b/22404-page-images/p118.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6026ca0
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p118.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p119.png b/22404-page-images/p119.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ffef490
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p119.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p120.png b/22404-page-images/p120.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d451417
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p120.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p121.png b/22404-page-images/p121.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..23e74f3
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p121.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p122.png b/22404-page-images/p122.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f1f2ea2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p122.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p123.png b/22404-page-images/p123.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..5d42058
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p123.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p124.png b/22404-page-images/p124.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ecd46d2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p124.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p125.png b/22404-page-images/p125.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..19bce28
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p125.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p126.png b/22404-page-images/p126.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..48ca104
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p126.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p127.png b/22404-page-images/p127.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..90b03f1
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p127.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p128.png b/22404-page-images/p128.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ad122d3
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p128.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p129.png b/22404-page-images/p129.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a89d071
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p129.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p130.png b/22404-page-images/p130.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ae2050c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p130.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p131.png b/22404-page-images/p131.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c751f06
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p131.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p132.png b/22404-page-images/p132.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a697517
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p132.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p133.png b/22404-page-images/p133.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..e45d1ba
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p133.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p134.png b/22404-page-images/p134.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..78a88a1
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p134.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p135.png b/22404-page-images/p135.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..37dfa3e
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p135.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p136.png b/22404-page-images/p136.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9caa436
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p136.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p137.png b/22404-page-images/p137.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9e5e43d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p137.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p138.png b/22404-page-images/p138.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..936981c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p138.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p139.png b/22404-page-images/p139.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a386523
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p139.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p140.png b/22404-page-images/p140.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..925361a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p140.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p141.png b/22404-page-images/p141.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d780b64
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p141.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p142.png b/22404-page-images/p142.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ee00591
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p142.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p143.png b/22404-page-images/p143.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..df3eafc
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p143.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p144.png b/22404-page-images/p144.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7898aec
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p144.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p145.png b/22404-page-images/p145.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..fcb4906
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p145.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p146.png b/22404-page-images/p146.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6f26e60
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p146.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p147.png b/22404-page-images/p147.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..2b1ebd4
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p147.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p148.png b/22404-page-images/p148.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..880a5c9
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p148.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p149.png b/22404-page-images/p149.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..b6aa5c7
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p149.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p150.png b/22404-page-images/p150.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..b0c2fde
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p150.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p151.png b/22404-page-images/p151.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..314d51a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p151.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p152.png b/22404-page-images/p152.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..b6ae4ca
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p152.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p153.png b/22404-page-images/p153.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0a9cf3f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p153.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p154.png b/22404-page-images/p154.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..17bc38f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p154.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p155.png b/22404-page-images/p155.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ff26c3d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p155.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p156.png b/22404-page-images/p156.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f74ff2c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p156.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p157.png b/22404-page-images/p157.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9ffb0a3
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p157.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p158.png b/22404-page-images/p158.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..483efa8
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p158.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p159.png b/22404-page-images/p159.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..833649d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p159.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p160.png b/22404-page-images/p160.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..5dd1244
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p160.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p161.png b/22404-page-images/p161.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9dc8180
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p161.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p162.png b/22404-page-images/p162.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9d6837a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p162.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p163.png b/22404-page-images/p163.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..4e8dcd9
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p163.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p164-insert.jpg b/22404-page-images/p164-insert.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7db2728
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p164-insert.jpg
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p164.png b/22404-page-images/p164.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ade50e5
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p164.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p165.png b/22404-page-images/p165.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..54bf259
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p165.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p166.png b/22404-page-images/p166.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..24eeb14
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p166.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p167.png b/22404-page-images/p167.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..5ccfbf2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p167.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p168.png b/22404-page-images/p168.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c89a006
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p168.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p169.png b/22404-page-images/p169.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..95815c1
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p169.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p170.png b/22404-page-images/p170.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..538a99a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p170.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p171.png b/22404-page-images/p171.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6b496fc
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p171.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p172.png b/22404-page-images/p172.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6503319
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p172.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p173.png b/22404-page-images/p173.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..468a9fa
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p173.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p174.png b/22404-page-images/p174.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..e9fb02c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p174.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p175.png b/22404-page-images/p175.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f27bb26
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p175.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p176.png b/22404-page-images/p176.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..623999d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p176.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p177.png b/22404-page-images/p177.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..abffe20
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p177.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p178.png b/22404-page-images/p178.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ed0454d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p178.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p179.png b/22404-page-images/p179.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..3731426
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p179.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p180.png b/22404-page-images/p180.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c75ed8b
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p180.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p181.png b/22404-page-images/p181.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0d8d2b9
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p181.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p182.png b/22404-page-images/p182.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a632024
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p182.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p183.png b/22404-page-images/p183.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..2ecee66
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p183.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p184.png b/22404-page-images/p184.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..456e858
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p184.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p185.png b/22404-page-images/p185.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a9e96db
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p185.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p186.png b/22404-page-images/p186.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..828873c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p186.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p187.png b/22404-page-images/p187.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..92a6c8a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p187.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p188.png b/22404-page-images/p188.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..312f661
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p188.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p189.png b/22404-page-images/p189.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..5a6e6d1
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p189.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p190.png b/22404-page-images/p190.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a8e771a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p190.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p191.png b/22404-page-images/p191.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a82c2db
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p191.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p192.png b/22404-page-images/p192.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a478f85
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p192.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p193.png b/22404-page-images/p193.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..5854867
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p193.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p194.png b/22404-page-images/p194.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c6e2930
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p194.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p195.png b/22404-page-images/p195.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..3e900df
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p195.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p196.png b/22404-page-images/p196.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7f69beb
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p196.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p197.png b/22404-page-images/p197.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d5234cf
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p197.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p198.png b/22404-page-images/p198.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..61cd2c8
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p198.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p199.png b/22404-page-images/p199.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..59fcc37
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p199.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p200-insert.jpg b/22404-page-images/p200-insert.jpg
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..aa02d05
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p200-insert.jpg
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p200.png b/22404-page-images/p200.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..e078cad
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p200.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p201.png b/22404-page-images/p201.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a152aa5
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p201.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p202.png b/22404-page-images/p202.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..762e6e0
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p202.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p203.png b/22404-page-images/p203.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0952698
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p203.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p204.png b/22404-page-images/p204.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..af02a90
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p204.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p205.png b/22404-page-images/p205.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ebd0e3f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p205.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p206.png b/22404-page-images/p206.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..e4a3c98
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p206.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p207.png b/22404-page-images/p207.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9be6a88
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p207.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p208.png b/22404-page-images/p208.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..2057a15
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p208.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p209.png b/22404-page-images/p209.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c3fef12
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p209.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p210.png b/22404-page-images/p210.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..5991406
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p210.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p211.png b/22404-page-images/p211.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..04bce0c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p211.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p212.png b/22404-page-images/p212.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..5aecf50
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p212.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p213.png b/22404-page-images/p213.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..db87b58
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p213.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p214.png b/22404-page-images/p214.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..5d03e61
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p214.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p215.png b/22404-page-images/p215.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..873d35d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p215.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p216.png b/22404-page-images/p216.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..d047031
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p216.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p217.png b/22404-page-images/p217.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f58e224
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p217.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p218.png b/22404-page-images/p218.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..c0f4abc
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p218.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p219.png b/22404-page-images/p219.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..43b535a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p219.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p220.png b/22404-page-images/p220.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..62050ef
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p220.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p221.png b/22404-page-images/p221.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..523de24
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p221.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p222.png b/22404-page-images/p222.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..ba23bcf
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p222.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p223.png b/22404-page-images/p223.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..7f05167
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p223.png
diff --git a/22404-page-images/p224.png b/22404-page-images/p224.png
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..f043331
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404-page-images/p224.png
diff --git a/22404.txt b/22404.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..bb46c6b
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,4678 @@
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Story of the White-Rock Cove, by Anonymous
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Story of the White-Rock Cove
+
+Author: Anonymous
+
+Release Date: August 26, 2007 [EBook #22404]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe, Mary Meehan and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+(This file was made using scans of public domain works in
+the International Children's Digital Library.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                       THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE.
+
+                              With Illustrations.
+
+
+
+
+LONDON:
+T. NELSON AND SONS, PATERNOSTER ROW;
+EDINBURGH; AND NEW YORK.
+1871.
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: WILLIE AND ALECK AT THE FOOT OF THE WHITE ROCK.]
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+
+       I. LONG AGO AT BRAYCOMBE
+
+      II. ALECK'S WELCOME
+
+     III. A WHOLE HOLIDAY
+
+      IV. THE RIDE TO STAVEMOOR
+
+       V. SHIP-BUILDING
+
+      VI. THE SCHOONER-YACHT
+
+     VII. THE MISSING SHIP
+
+    VIII. ANOTHER SEARCH
+
+      IX. SORROWFUL DAYS
+
+       X. SUNDAY EVENING
+
+      XI. THE WHITE-ROCK COVE AGAIN
+
+
+
+
+THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+LONG AGO AT BRAYCOMBE.
+
+
+The Story of the White-Rock Cove--"_to be written down all from the very
+beginning_"--is urgently required by certain youthful petitioners, whose
+importunity is hard to resist; and the request is sealed by a rosy pair
+of lips from the little face nestling at my side, in a manner that
+admits of no denial.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"_From the beginning_;"--that very beginning carries me back to my own
+old school-room, in the dear home at Braycombe, when, as a little boy
+between nine and ten years old, I sat there doing my lessons.
+
+It was on a Thursday morning, and, consequently, I was my mother's
+pupil. For whereas my tutor, a certain Mr. Glengelly, from our nearest
+town of Elmworth, used to come over on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
+for the carrying forward of my education; my studies were, on the other
+days of the week, which I consequently liked much better, conducted
+under the gentle superintendence of my mother.
+
+On this particular morning I was working with energy at a rule-of-three
+sum, being engaged in a sort of exciting race with the clock, of which
+the result was still doubtful. When, however, the little click, which
+meant, as I well knew, five minutes to twelve, sounded, I had attained
+my quotient in plain figures; a few moments more, and the process of
+_fours into, twelves into, twenties into_, had been accomplished;
+and just as the clock struck twelve I was able to hand up my slate
+triumphantly with my task completed.
+
+"A drawn game, mamma!" I exclaimed, "between me and the clock;" and
+then with eager eyes I followed hers, as she rapidly ran over the
+figures which had cost me so much trouble, and from time to time
+relieved my mind by a quiet commentary: "Quite right so far;--No
+mistakes yet;--You have worked it out well."
+
+Frisk, the intelligent, the affectionate, the well-beloved companion of
+my sports, and the recipient of many of my confidences, woke up from his
+nap, stretched himself, came and placed his fore-paws upon my knees,
+and, looking up in my face, spoke as plainly as if endowed with the
+capacity of expressing himself in human language, to this effect:--"I'm
+very glad you have finished your lessons; and glad, too, that I was able
+to sleep on a mat in the window, where the warm sunshine has made me
+extremely comfortable. But now your lessons are done, I hope you'll lose
+no time, but come out to play at once. I'm ready when you are."
+
+And Frisk's tail wagged faster and faster when my mother's inspection of
+my sum was concluded, so that I could not help thinking he must have
+understood her when she said,--"There are no mistakes, Willie; you have
+been a good, industrious little boy this morning; you may go out to play
+with a light heart."
+
+I did not need twice telling, but very soon put away all my books and
+maps, and the slate, with its right side carefully turned down, that it
+might not get rubbed, wiped the pens, placed my copy-book in the drawer,
+and presented myself for that final kiss with which my mother was wont
+to terminate our proceedings, and which was on this occasion accompanied
+by the remonstrance that I was getting quite too big a boy for such
+nonsense.
+
+Then at a bound I disappeared through the window, which opened on the
+lawn, and let off my pent-up steam in the circumnavigation of the
+garden, with Frisk barking at my heels; clearing the geranium-bed with a
+flying leap, and taking the low wire-fence by the shrubbery twice over,
+to the humiliation of my canine companion, who had to dip under where I
+went over.
+
+The conclusion of these performances brought me once again in front of
+the school-room window, where my mother stood beckoning to me. She had
+my straw hat with its sailor's blue ribbons in one hand, and a slice of
+seed-cake in the other.
+
+"Here, Willie," she said, "put on your hat, for the sun is hot although
+there is a fresh breeze; and--but perhaps I may have been mistaken--I
+thought perhaps some people of my acquaintance were fond of seed-cake
+for luncheon."
+
+"No indeed, dear mamma," I made answer speedily, "you are not at all
+mistaken: some people--that is, Frisk and I--do like it very much; don't
+we Frisk, old fellow?"
+
+"And now," continued my mother,--who must certainly have forgotten at
+the moment her opinion expressed just five minutes before as to the
+propriety of kisses, for, smoothing back my hair, she stooped down to
+press her lips upon my forehead before putting my hat on,--"and now you
+are to take your troublesome self off for a long hour, indeed, almost an
+hour and a half: away with you to your play."
+
+"May I take my troublesome self to old George's, mamma?" I petitioned.
+
+"If you like," she answered; "only be careful in going down the
+Zig-zag; I don't want to find you a little heap of broken bones at the
+bottom of the cliff."
+
+I confess myself to being entirely incapable of conveying on paper to my
+young readers the charms, the manifold delights, of that Zig-zag walk,
+which was our shortest way down to the lodge.
+
+You started from the garden, then through the shrubbery, and from the
+shrubbery by a little wire gate you entered the natural wood which
+clothed the upper part of our hill-side. The path descended rapidly from
+this point, being very steep in parts, and emerging every here and there
+so as to command an uninterrupted view of the beautiful Braycombe Bay,
+which on this bright summer morning was all dancing and sparkling in the
+sunshine. Lower down, the wood gave place to rock and turf, until you
+reached the top of the shingle which the path skirted for a little
+distance; and, finally, crossing an undulating meadow, you gained the
+lodge, the abode of my friend old George, mentioned above.
+
+It was not its picturesque beauty alone which endeared the Zig-zag walk
+to me, although, child that I was, I feel sure the loveliness of the
+outer world had the effect, unconsciously to myself, of brightening my
+little inner world; but over and above all this must be ranked my keen
+enjoyment of a scramble, and of the sense of difficulty and danger
+attendant upon certain steep parts of the descent. It was one of my
+great amusements to be trusted occasionally to guide my parents'
+visitors down by this path, for the sake of the view, whilst their
+carriages would be sent the long way by the drive to meet them at the
+lodge. There were precipitous places, where even grave and stately
+grown-up people would give up walking and take to running; and then
+again little perilous points, where ladies especially would utter faint
+cries of fright, and would require gentle persuasion to induce them to
+step down from stone to stone; whilst I, fearless from long practice,
+would triumphantly perform the feat two or three times, to show that I
+was not in the least afraid, devising, moreover, short cuts for myself
+even steeper than those of the recognized path.
+
+I question whether the birth-day which conferred on me the privilege of
+going alone up and down the Zig-zag was the greatest boon to myself or
+to my nurse; the exertion involved in scaling the hill-side being to the
+full as wearisome to her as it was enchanting to myself. The
+emancipation, however, came early in my career, since my friend, old
+George, by my father's consent, assumed a sort of out-of-door charge of
+me at a period when most little boys are exclusively under nursery
+discipline. For my father reposed the utmost confidence in the old man's
+principles, and did not hesitate to let me be for hours under his care,
+saying, often in my hearing, that he would rather have me out on the
+water learning from him how to manage the boats, or climbing the rocks
+and exploring the caves under his safe guardianship, than learning from
+a woman only how to keep _off_ the rocks and avoid tumbling into the
+water. He was an old seaman, united by strong ties of friendship and
+gratitude to our family. In earlier years he had served on board the
+same ship in which my father had been a young midshipman; and on one
+occasion, when my father fell overboard, at a time when the vessel was
+at full speed, had thrown himself into the water, and held my father's
+head up when he was too exhausted to swim, until the boat put out for
+the rescue had time to come up and save both lives, which the delay had
+placed in great peril. When, some years later, on my grandfather's
+death, my father came to live at Braycombe, he insisted upon Groves, who
+was just about to be pensioned off through some failure in health,
+coming to settle with his wife at the lodge, promising him the charge of
+our boats, so that he might have a taste of his old occupation. His
+daughter-in-law, widow of his only son, who had been drowned, obtained
+the situation of schoolmistress, and lived near to the old couple with
+Ralph, _her_ only son, a lad some few years my senior, who was employed
+about the place under his grandfather's supervision, and helped in
+rowing when we went out upon the water.
+
+A friendship firm and tender had grown up between myself and the old
+seaman, I accepting him as a grown-up play-fellow, and revealing to him
+in detail all the many plans continually suggesting themselves to my
+fertile imagination, and finding in him an ever ready sympathy, and,
+when possible, active co-operation in my schemes.
+
+From which digression, explanatory of the relationship subsisting
+between old George--as he had taught me from infancy to call him, _Mr.
+Groves_, as he was more properly designated by the neighbourhood--and
+myself, I must return to the bright June morning upon which, after my
+usual fashion, I descended the Zig-zag, running, scrambling, sliding,
+with Frisk scampering and capering at my side, making wild snaps at
+pieces of cake which I broke off for him from time to time, and held up
+as high as I could reach, that he might have to jump for them.
+
+We were not long in gaining the lodge, which, by the carriage drive, was
+nearly three-quarters of a mile from the house. I produced a series of
+knocks upon the door, like those of a London postman, though, as old
+George was wont to remark,--
+
+"What's the use, Master Willie, of knocking like that; you never stop to
+hear me say 'Come in,' but just burst open the door and drive in like a
+gust of wind promiscuous." But, in self-defence, I must explain that my
+defective manners in this particular were entirely due to my old friend
+himself, who, from earliest infancy, had trained me in all manner of
+impertinent familiarities. It was traditional that I cried to go to him
+whilst I was still in arms; that I made attacks of an aggravated
+character upon his brass buttons before I could walk alone; and I could
+just remember experiments upon his white beard, as trying doubtless to
+him as they were interesting to myself, conducted with philosophical
+determination on my part, in order to ascertain whether it came off by
+pulling or not! In all of which proceedings my friend greatly encouraged
+me, so that the blame of my failure in the laws of etiquette lay at his
+door.
+
+Only Mrs. Groves was in the cottage when I rushed in eagerly upon the
+morning in question. She was busy in culinary mysteries, but assured me
+her master would be soon in, and, in the meantime, I was to make myself
+at home; which I did at once.
+
+"And your dear ma, how's she?" inquired the good lady presently,
+settling a cover on a saucepan in a decisive manner, and sitting down
+during a pause in her operations. "I saw her drive by yesterday; and
+Susan told me she'd been at the school. A blessed time children have of
+it these days, going to school; it's very different to what it was in my
+time."
+
+"Then you didn't go to school?" I asked, being privately of opinion that
+she was rather fortunate as a child.
+
+"Oh yes, sir, I went to school, but not like the schooling children has
+now-a-days, with a high-born lady like your ma going herself to see
+them;--our old dame, she teached us all she knew--to read, and mark, and
+learn,--"
+
+"And inwardly digest?" I suggested, as Mrs. Groves hesitated in her
+enumeration of accomplishments.
+
+But there was not time to satisfy me concerning this branch of her
+education, for old George appearing at the moment, I flew to meet him,
+and we strolled down to the water's edge together.
+
+"I've been longing to see you," I exclaimed. "It's about Aleck, my
+cousin Aleck, I wanted to tell you. He's coming, and uncle and aunt
+Gordon, on Thursday week; that's only just a fortnight, you know."
+
+Aleck was my only boy cousin, and ever since there had been a notion of
+his coming to Braycombe, I had been thinking and dreaming of him
+incessantly. My aunt Gordon had been in very delicate health, and the
+doctors ordered foreign air and constant change for the summer months,
+and a winter in some warm climate. There had been some hesitation as to
+how my cousin, their only child, should be disposed of. He was not very
+strong, and school life, it was feared, might be too great an ordeal for
+another year; so my parents had written, offering that he should spend
+that time at Braycombe, and share my tutor's instructions. The decisive
+answer from my uncle had only just arrived, and I was in a tumult of joy
+and excitement that it was in favour of my cousin's coming to stay with
+us, and that the actual day of our visitors' arrival had been fixed.
+
+George listened with every appearance of interest to my communication.
+
+"I'm glad your cousin's coming, Master Willie, as you're pleased," he
+said.
+
+"But aren't you glad, too, for your own sake?" I asked. "It will be so
+nice having him to play with us."
+
+"Oh, I'll be pleased to see him, never fear for that," responded George.
+"I knew his father when he was but a little fellow like yourself."
+
+"Mamma calls me her _big_ boy," I threw in, disapprovingly. "But what do
+you think Aleck will be like?"
+
+"Well, sir, I should expect very much such another young craft as
+yourself; or, now I come to think of it, perhaps a year older or so."
+
+"Not a year," I replied; "ten months and a half. I asked mamma his
+birth-day. Do you think he'll be as tall as me? because papa and mamma
+say I'm tall for my age."
+
+"His father stood six feet one the day he came of age. I daresay his son
+will take after him," said George.
+
+"And be as tall as that?" I inquired, feeling rather anxious, until
+reassured, at the transformation of my cousin in prospect into a young
+giant.
+
+I suppose that few children had ever seen less of other children than I
+had up to this time. There were but three gentlemen's houses in our
+neighbourhood: the Rectory, where lived the elderly clergyman and his
+wife, who had never had a family; the Elms, a country seat, where Sir
+John and Lady Cosington and two grown-up daughters resided; and
+Willowbank, another country place, occupied by a young married couple,
+with one little baby. Elmworth, our nearest town, was seven miles off;
+and this distance almost entirely precluded intercourse with any of the
+families there.
+
+In consequence of this, I had been completely without companions of my
+own age up to this time. In books I had read much of children's
+amusements with their companions; and although the perfect happiness of
+my own home left nothing really to be wished for, if ever a wish _did_
+occur to me for anything I had not, it was for a play-fellow and
+companion somewhere about my own age; and now, when this wish of mine
+was really on the eve of being realized, I was filled with vague dreams
+and anticipations of all the delight which it was to bring to me. When
+George and I had mutually agreed that my cousin Aleck--allowing for the
+difference of age--might be reasonably expected to be somewhat taller
+than myself, we sat down on the beach, and began to discuss certain
+plans of mine for giving him a suitable welcome.
+
+Dim ideas, the result of "Illustrated London News'" pictures, were
+floating in my mind--bouquets, triumphal arches, addresses, and so
+forth--even although I wound up by saying--
+
+"Of course, not like that exactly; only something--something rather
+grand."
+
+[Illustration: OLD GEORGE AND WILLIE.]
+
+Old George, however, kindly and wisely pulled my schemes down, and laid
+them affectionately in the dust:--
+
+"You see, Master Willie, anything written, even in your best hand,
+wouldn't come up to what you will say in the first five minutes by word
+of mouth; and then the school banners, though very suitable for a
+feast--and I'm sure my Susan would be right pleased to look them up for
+you--would be no ways suitable. '_A merry Christmas and happy New
+Year_,' or, '_Braycombe Schools, founded 1830_,' would look odd-like
+flying in the avenue at this time of year. And though I'd be glad to do
+anything to give you pleasure, I'd rather be opening the gate to your
+uncle and aunt and cousin, as they drive up, than firing off a gun,
+which might disturb their nerves, not to say frighten the horses."
+
+All of which was perfectly unanswerable. But as old George put on his
+spectacles in conclusion, I knew he meant to consider the subject with
+attention; and I therefore remained quietly at his side, sending flat
+stones skimming along the water, or throwing in a stick for Frisk to
+fetch out again, until, as I expected, he signified to me that he had
+thought of what would do.
+
+He said that the light arch which supported the central lamp over the
+gate might be very easily decked with evergreens for the occasion, and
+the word _welcome_, traced in flowers, put up so as to appear very
+pretty with the green background; whilst the flag-staff at the top of
+the hill, just by the shrubbery, should display all the flags that our
+establishment could boast of.
+
+Groves' scheme, though not quite so extensive as those which had floated
+through my childish imagination, was sufficiently attractive to be very
+welcome; and I eagerly insisted upon our immediately returning to the
+lodge, where George took certain measurements of the arch which
+impressed me wonderfully with a sense of his superiority, and wisdom.
+
+By which time Mrs. Groves looked out to say that her husband's dinner
+would be spoiled by waiting, or eaten by the dog, "which there was no
+driving off." And I, thus reminded of the time, settled the difficulty
+about Frisk by taking him up bodily in my arms, and, hurrying off,
+reached home only just in time to get ready for dinner before the gong
+sounded.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+ALECK'S WELCOME.
+
+
+It is almost unnecessary to remark that the fortnight preceding my
+cousin's arrival was one of the longest I had ever spent--even longer
+than those preceding birth-days or Christmas. However, the long
+looked-for Thursday came at last.
+
+I pleaded hard for a whole holiday, but my mother would not be
+persuaded; so I had to do my morning lessons as usual, and confessed,
+after they were over, that the hours had passed much faster than I at
+all expected.
+
+In consideration of the travellers having, in all probability, had but
+little time for refreshment, dinner was to be rather earlier than usual;
+and Aleck and I were to have it, for once, with the elders of the
+party. Luncheon was also early; and not having the time to go down to
+the lodge before it, I went out into the garden with my mother to help
+in gathering a nosegay for my aunt's room.
+
+How fresh and beautiful everything looked that morning, as we stood
+there amongst the flowers, my mother selecting the materials for the
+nosegay, and I holding the basket, and handing her the scissors as she
+wanted them, or executing at intervals little by-plays with Frisk. I
+remember feeling a kind of intense thrill of happiness, which to this
+day is vividly recalled by the scent of those particular roses and
+geraniums; and also a sort of dim wonder about the unhappiness which I
+had heard and read of as the fate of some--pondering in my own mind how
+it felt to be so very unhappy, and whether people couldn't help it if
+they would only go out into the fresh air and warm sunshine, and enjoy
+themselves as I did. From which speculations I was recalled by my mother
+saying,--
+
+"I think we have enough flowers, Willie; perhaps just one creeper for
+the outside of the vase. There--we shall do now."
+
+Then we went in by the school-room window, and I fetched the large vase
+from the east bed-room, and stood by my mother whilst tastefully and
+daintily she arranged the flowers as I thought none but she could
+arrange them. She had nearly completed her task when my father came into
+the school-room.
+
+"I am sending the carriage early, dear," he said to her; "for although I
+think they cannot arrive until the 4.50 train, there is just the chance
+of their catching the one before. Have you any messages for Rickson?"
+
+"None, dear," answered my mother. "But you must stay for a moment and
+look at my flowers. Are they not sweet and pretty?"
+
+"Very sweet and very pretty," replied my father. But I thought he looked
+at her more than at the flowers when he said so; and she laughed,
+although, after all, there was nothing to laugh at.
+
+"Willie and I have been gathering them," she said; "and now we are going
+to put them in Bessie's room."
+
+"I know who remembers everything that can give pleasure to others,"
+observed my father, whose hand was on my shoulder by this time. "Willie,
+I hope you will grow up like your mamma."
+
+Not quite seeing the force of this observation, I replied that, being a
+boy, I thought I had better grow up like him. And both my parents
+laughed; but my mother said she quite agreed with me, it would be far
+better.
+
+Then we carried the vase up, and placed it on the table in the window of
+the east bed-room; and my mother flitted about, putting little finishing
+touches here and there to complete the arrangements for the comfort of
+her visitors, whilst I received a commission to inspect portfolios,
+envelope-cases, and ink-bottles, and to see that all were freshly
+replenished.
+
+These matters being finally disposed of, I persuaded my mother to ascend
+to the more remote part of the house, where a room next to my own had,
+at my earnest request, been prepared for my cousin, and in the
+decoration of which I felt peculiar interest. There was a twin bedstead
+to my own, and various other pieces of furniture corresponding;
+moreover, in an impulse of generosity I had transferred certain of my
+own possessions into Aleck's apartment, with a noble determination to be
+extremely liberal.
+
+My mother noticed these at once, but I was a little disappointed that
+she did not commend my liberality.
+
+"You see, mamma," I explained, "there's my own green boat with the
+union-jack, and the bat I liked best before papa gave me my last new
+one, and the dissected map of the queens of England."
+
+"Yes, I see, Willie," replied my mother; proceeding in the meantime to
+certain readjustments urgently called for, by the critical position of
+the bat standing on the drawers against the wall, and the boat nearly
+falling from the mantelpiece.
+
+"There, my child," she said; "the bat will do better in the comer, and
+the ship upon the drawers. And now the puzzle: why, Willie, this is the
+very one of which I heard you say there were three pieces missing; and
+then Mrs. Barbauld you think childish for yourself!"
+
+My countenance fell, for I had been indulging in the cheap generosity of
+giving away second-bests, and I could see my mother did not admire such
+liberality. Indeed, after a moment's consideration, I was ashamed of it
+myself, and hastened with alacrity to hide Mrs. Barbauld, and the Queens
+of England, and one or two other trifles, in the obscurity of my own
+room; whilst my mother decided upon the best position for a couple of
+prettily-framed pictures which she had had brought up, and fastened an
+illuminated text, similar to one in my own room, opposite the bed--"_The
+things which are seen are temporal; the things which are unseen are
+eternal_"--and placed a little statuette of a guardian angel, with the
+scroll underneath, "_He shall give His angels charge over thee_," over
+the bed-head.
+
+"What a good thought, mamma," I said, when she had finished her
+arrangements; "that looks exactly like mine."
+
+"Just what I want it to look, Willie. You and Aleck are to be as like
+brothers to each other as may be. You have never had brother or sister
+of your own, Willie--not that you can remember [there _had_ been one
+infant sister, whose death, when about a month old, had been my parents'
+greatest sorrow]--but now that your cousin is likely to stay a long time
+with us, I hope that you and he will be as much as possible like
+brothers to each other."
+
+Then my mother, who was sitting at the foot of the bed, drew me towards
+her, and quietly talked to me about some of the new duties as well as
+temptations which would come with new pleasures, bidding me remember
+that I was to try never to think first of myself, but to be willing to
+consider others before myself. We had been reading the 13th of First
+Corinthians that morning together, and her observations seemed to me as
+if drawn straight from that source; indeed, before long she reminded me
+of it, bidding me remember it supplied the standard we ought to aim at,
+and telling me that strength would be always given, _if I sought it_, to
+help me to be what I wanted to be; it was only those who did not
+heartily strive who got beaten in the conflict.
+
+It is not to be supposed that this was all uttered in a set speech; I am
+giving the substance only of a few minutes' quiet talk which we had up
+there in the bed-room together that morning before luncheon, and which I
+confess to having felt at the time rather superfluous, my delight in the
+anticipation of my cousin's arrival convincing me that there would be no
+fear of my finding anything but happiness in my intercourse with him.
+
+My mother, on the contrary, as I afterwards had reason to know, was by
+no means without anxiety. She knew that hitherto I had been completely
+shielded from every possible trial. The darling of herself and my
+father, and, as the only child, a favourite amongst the attached members
+of our household, my wants had been all anticipated, and every pleasure
+suited to my age had been planned for me so ingeniously, that I had
+never had the chance of showing myself selfish or ill-tempered. She
+feared that when for the first time I found myself not _first_
+considered in all arrangements, I might fail in those particular points
+of conduct in which she was most anxious I should triumph.
+
+My mother's gentle admonitions, to which I at the time paid little heed,
+were interrupted by the luncheon gong.
+
+"When will the wonderful preparations at the gate be ready?" asked my
+father whilst we were at table.
+
+"Oh, there's nothing left to do but to fasten up the flowers. Old George
+says it won't take an hour," I replied.
+
+"Then if I come down at three o'clock the show will be ready?"
+
+"Quite ready," I said. "And mamma will come too?"
+
+"Of course mamma's coming too; unless, indeed, you mean to charge so
+high a price for the exhibition," said my father comically, "that I
+cannot afford it. But even then," he added, "mamma shall see it; I'll
+give it up for her."
+
+I was off from the luncheon-table as soon as possible, but found nurse
+lying in wait to capture me and enforce upon my mind the first duty of
+returning by four o'clock, to be dressed properly before the arrival of
+our visitors, whose impression of me, she conceived, would be most
+unfavourable were they to find me in what she was pleased to call "this
+trumpery," referring to a little sailor's suit of white and blue in
+which I was very generally attired, and which nurse chose to
+disapprove. She wound up her admonition by a sort of lament over my
+light-mindedness as to my best clothes; a spirit which, she remarked,
+was apt to cling to people to their graves--sometimes afterwards; which
+I scarcely thought possible.
+
+Frisk and I darted down the Zig-zag at our usual pace, so soon as I was
+released from nurse's kind offices, and joined old George, who was on
+the look-out for us.
+
+Very pleased we were with the result of our exertions when the really
+pretty triumphal arch was completed; the letters of the word _Welcome_
+in conspicuously gay flowers forming a pretty contrast to the leafy
+background, and eliciting what we felt to be a well-merited admiration
+from my parents and a select committee of servants, who came severally
+to inspect our handiwork in the course of the afternoon.
+
+"It's fit for Her Majesty," said my father in his playful way, "and far
+too fine for a little stranger boy! In fact, it seems scarcely proper
+that a humble individual like myself should pass under it!"
+
+"You're not a humble individual, papa!" I exclaimed vehemently.
+
+"Oh, dear! oh, dear!" sighed my father, "that it should come to such a
+pass as this; my only son tells me I am wanting in humility--not a
+humble person!"
+
+"An _individual_!" I said, feeling that made a great difference. "But
+now, papa, you're only in fun; you know I didn't mean that."
+
+"One thing I do mean very distinctly, Willie, which is, that I must not
+stay chattering here with you any longer, or my letters will never be
+ready before post-time. You may stay a little longer with George if you
+like."
+
+I stayed accordingly, determining to be home by the Zig-zag at the
+appointed hour.
+
+But my parents had scarcely had the time necessary for walking up to the
+house, when the sharp sound of horses' trot suddenly aroused my
+attention, and in another moment our carriage, with the travellers
+inside, was rounding the curve of the road, and had drawn up before the
+gate.
+
+My confusion and shyness at thus being surprised were indescribable;
+and a latent desire to take to immediate flight and get home the short
+way might probably have prevailed, had not my uncle's quick eye caught
+sight of me as I drew back under the shelter of old George.
+
+"Why, surely there must be Willie!" he exclaimed; and in another moment
+Groves had hoisted my unwilling self on to the step of the carriage, and
+was introducing me to my relations, regardless of my shy desire to stand
+upon the ground, and make geological researches with my eyes under the
+wheels.
+
+"Yes, sir, this is Master Willie; he's been uncommon taken up with the
+other young master coming, and it's his thought having a bit of
+something [To think of old George designating our beautiful arch as a
+bit of something!] put up at the gate to bid him welcome."
+
+"There's for you, Aleck," said my uncle to a fair-haired boy sitting in
+the furthest corner of the carriage opposite to my aunt, whom I just
+mustered courage to look at. "You'll have to make your best bow and a
+very grand speech, to return thanks for such an honour."
+
+"Master didn't expect you so soon, sir," proceeded George; "he thought
+you'd be coming by the next train; that's how it is that Master Willie
+was down here."
+
+"Then I think the best thing we can do with Master Willie is to carry
+him up to the house with us," said my uncle. And accordingly I was
+lifted over from my step into the midst of the party in the carriage,
+and seated down between my uncle and aunt.
+
+The coachman was compelled to rein in the horses a minute longer, whilst
+they all looked at and admired the arch, and then we bowled off rapidly
+up the avenue. I sometimes think we remember our life in pictures:
+certainly the very frontispiece of my acquaintance with my cousin Aleck
+always is, and will be, a distinct mind's eye picture of that party in
+the carriage, with myself in their midst.
+
+Uncle Gordon sitting in the right hand corner with his arm round me,
+keeping me very close to himself, so that I might not crowd my aunt, who
+was leaning back on the other side of me, as though weary with the long
+journey. Opposite my uncle my aunt's maid, with a green bonnet decorated
+with a bow of red velvet of angular construction in the centre of the
+front, to which the parting of her hair seemed to lead up like a broad
+white road; she was grasping, as though her life depended upon her
+keeping them safely, a sort of family fagot of umbrellas in one hand,
+whilst with the other she kept a leather-covered dressing-case steady on
+her lap. In the fourth corner was my cousin, in full Highland kilt, such
+as I had hitherto seen only in toy-books of the costumes of all nations
+or other pictures, and which inspired me with a wonderful amount of
+curiosity. Lastly, myself in blue and white sailor's dress, looking, no
+doubt, as if I had been captured from a man-of-war; conscious of tumbled
+hair, and doubtful hands, and retribution in store for me in the shape
+of a talking-to from nurse, who had still unlimited jurisdiction over my
+wardrobe, for having been surprised in a state she would designate as
+"not fit to be seen."
+
+Aleck and I found our eyes wandering to each other momentarily as we
+drove along. When they met, we took them off again, and pretended to
+look out at opposite sides of the carriage; but this happened so often,
+that at last we both laughed, and--the ice broke. I was quite on chatty
+terms before we reached the house.
+
+"There are papa and mamma!" I exclaimed, as we came in sight of the
+entrance. They had heard the carriage, and were at the door to welcome
+their guests.
+
+"See, I have brought you two boys instead of one," said my uncle,
+lifting me out first, and then proceeding to help out my aunt, as if she
+were a delicate piece of china, and "With care" labelled outside her.
+
+When the greetings were over, my mother declared a rest on the sofa in
+her room and a cup of tea indispensable for my aunt's refreshment. My
+uncle took my father's arm and disappeared into the study; and we two
+boys were left to take care of each other until dinner-time.
+
+I proposed going round the garden, and Frisk being of the party,
+proceeded to show off his accomplishments. This led to an animated
+description of my cousin's dog, Caesar, and a comparison of the ways and
+habits of Caesar the Big with those of Frisk the Little, on the strength
+of which we became very intimate.
+
+Afterwards we returned to the house, and having shown Aleck his room, I
+took him into mine, where we were found seated on the floor surrounded
+by "my things," which I had been exhibiting in detail to my cousin, when
+nurse came, a little before six o'clock, to see that we were ready for
+dinner.
+
+"Aleck, tell me one thing," I had just said to my cousin; "are they
+really your knees or leather?"
+
+Aleck stared, "Leather! why, of course not; what made you think such an
+odd question?"
+
+"I didn't think they _could_ be leather after the first minute," I
+replied, doubtfully; "but I couldn't know--"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+A WHOLE HOLIDAY.
+
+
+To what boy or girl does not the promise of a whole holiday convey a
+sort of Fortunatus' purse of anticipated enjoyment! I used to wonder--I
+remember wondering that very day after Aleck's arrival, when I had the
+most enjoyable whole holiday I ever spent--why grown-up people who
+always had them should seem so indifferent to their privileges, writing
+it down upon the secret tablets of my resolve, that when _I_ grew up
+things should be very different with me.
+
+My cousin and I sat side by side at the breakfast-table in a vehement
+impulse of boyish affection, so completely taken up with each other that
+I for one never remember noticing any one else during the progress of
+the meal, except when once I caught a wistful look from my aunt, and
+heard her saying, in a rather sorrowful low voice, to my mother,--
+
+"I am very thankful to see our boys take to each other; it is quite a
+load off my mind that Aleck should be with you instead of being left at
+school."
+
+"Won't Aleck come too?" I asked my mother, when she summoned me to our
+usual Bible-reading after breakfast.
+
+"Not whilst his own mamma is here," was the answer; and I was obliged to
+rest content. But the moment I had put away my Bible, I flew off in
+search of him, eagerly explaining that we were to do what we liked for
+the whole of the morning, and sketching out a plan for our amusement
+such as I thought would be pleasant to him:--
+
+"First, we must go over the whole house--you've only seen a little bit
+of it yet--and the kitchen-garden and the stables, and then down the
+Zig-zag to old George's, and we'll get him to go out with us in the
+boat. It's smooth enough to sail the 'Fair Alice'--that's a little yacht
+of mine that old George gave me."
+
+Aleck's face brightened. "May you go out in a boat when you like?" he
+asked, eagerly. "Oh, how _de_-light-ful!"
+
+How we careered over the house that morning, visiting every nook and
+corner of it, from the "leads" on the roof; accessible only by a ladder
+and trap-door, to the most hidden repositories in the housekeeper's
+domain! The servants good naturedly remarked I had gone crazy. Presently
+I bade Aleck shut his eyes, and submit to my guidance blindfold, whilst
+I led him to the only room he had not been in. We passed through several
+passages, and then I went forward, tapped at a door, and finding I might
+come in, fetched Aleck, still with eyes shut.
+
+"There now, you may look," I exclaimed, watching in a satisfied manner
+the astonishment with which he opened his eyes to find himself in the
+study, and his confusion on seeing my father seated at the library table
+near the window, surrounded by books and papers.
+
+"Oh, uncle," he exclaimed, "I did not know I was in your room!"
+
+"And are very much startled at finding yourself there," said my father,
+finishing his sentence for him. "What shall we do with the culprit,
+Willie? Prosecute him according to the utmost rigour of the law, and
+sentence him to a year's imprisonment at Braycombe, with hard labour,
+under Mr. Glengelly and old George!"
+
+"I think that would be a very good punishment," I answered, "only I
+should like it to be more than a year."
+
+"See what a cruel fellow your cousin is," said my father, getting up
+from his chair, and proceeding to take Aleck round the room, showing him
+various curiosities with which I was familiar; then he sat down again,
+and keeping Aleck at his side, told him that so long as he remained at
+Braycombe he was to feel as much at home, and as welcome to the study as
+I was, and that he was to try and trust him as he could his own father,
+until we all had the joy of welcoming his parents home again.
+
+"Famous chats we get here sometimes, eh, Willie?" he concluded,
+appealing to me.
+
+"_Rather!_" I answered emphatically, seating myself on the arm of his
+chair, and looking over his shoulder. "Papa, shall you have time to
+play with us this afternoon. It's a whole holiday. I want you to very
+much."
+
+"I fear not, Willie. I must be away all the morning. Peter the Great
+will be at the door to carry me off in another minute, and I must keep
+the afternoon for your uncle and aunt. To-morrow afternoon I will give
+you an hour, only I stipulate you must have mercy upon your old father,
+and not expect him to climb trees like a squirrel, or run like a hare."
+
+"You know you're not an _old_ father, papa," I said; "and, Aleck, papa
+can run quite fast--faster than anybody else I ever saw, and he climbs
+better than anybody else. He's been up the tree I showed you in the
+avenue."
+
+"Whatever papa's qualifications may be," my father observed, "the end of
+the matter just at present is, that Rickson is coming round with the
+horses, and I cannot keep his imperial majesty waiting."
+
+"What does uncle do?" inquired my cousin after we had been to the door
+and had seen my father mount and ride away on Peter the Great.
+
+"Papa! oh, he does quantities of things," I replied, somewhat vaguely.
+
+"What kind of things?"
+
+I proceeded to enumerate them promiscuously:--
+
+"Why, he's a magistrate, and tries cases at Elmworth, and sends people
+to prison; and he goes to a hospital twice every week at Elmworth, and
+he goes to see poor people--we often have some from the hospital down
+here; and he always has quantities of letters; and he reads to mamma;
+and, do you know, he once wrote a book--"
+
+I paused, not so much because I had exhausted the list of my father's
+employments, as because I had named that achievement which of all others
+filled me with the deepest awe and reverence. I could remember how, when
+I was four years old, my mother had lifted me up to see a volume on the
+counter of the great bookseller's shop at Elmworth, and had let me spell
+through the name "Grant" on the title-page. I felt as if I had risen in
+life, and looked upon books in general with a feeling of personal
+friendship, as from one behind the scenes, from that day; whilst,
+personally, I was much elated by the thought of what a very wonderful
+and extraordinary man my father was. I was rather glad when Aleck told
+me that he did not think his papa had ever written a book;--it made me
+feel a little bit superior to him.
+
+After going to the stables to see my pony, we proceeded to the Zig-zag,
+chattering fast the whole way. I was full of plans and projects, and
+anxious at once to interest my cousin in every one of them.
+
+"You see," I explained, "there are quantities of things that we haven't
+been able to do, because there's been only George and me; and he's
+always had it to say that there were only us two, and that he was old
+and I young, but he can't say that now."
+
+"He doesn't seem so very old," remarked Aleck.
+
+"I don't think he is," I answered, "but he's taught me to call him old
+George since I have been a baby; everybody else calls him Groves or Mr.
+Groves. Now there's one thing I want very much to begin, and that is
+digging a hole right through the earth to come out at the other side,
+where, you know, we should find ourselves standing on our heads! George
+has always kept putting off beginning. But haven't you heard of many
+people beginning to do something great when they were boys?"
+
+"Yes," answered Aleck, musingly; "I have a book about wonderful boys,
+and one of them cut out a lion in butter, and another drew a picture
+upon a stump of a tree; but I don't think we should be able to dig so
+very far down--we should have to stop at last."
+
+This unprejudiced opinion of my cousin's, adverse as it was to my
+favourite scheme, was rather disappointing, but we were now engaged in
+the excitement of descending the Zig-zag, so I had not leisure to think
+much about it.
+
+"Isn't it a jolly way down?" I exclaimed. "Papa says it's two hundred
+feet to that piece of rock down below."
+
+"It's not steeper than our hills at home," said Aleck; "only we have not
+the sea near us--oh, how I wish we had!"
+
+Aleck was quite as good a scrambler as I was, so we were not long in
+reaching the lodge, where old George seemed to be on the watch for us,
+and welcomed us both with his wonted heartiness.
+
+"Master told me you'd be coming down, young gentlemen, as he rode by,
+and that you were to go out as much as you liked in the boat; and so
+I've been telling my good wife she must keep the look-out for the gate.
+Ralph's coming along presently, and will be down at the Cove most as
+soon as we shall."
+
+George wanted Aleck to go into the lodge and see certain objects of
+interest, which, to use his own words, he "set _great store by_." But I
+was too eager to allow of this, and insisted upon our setting out at
+once for the Cove. "I want to show him the greatest treasure I have of
+all my treasures," I exclaimed.
+
+"Is that the 'Fair Alice' you were telling me of?" asked Aleck.
+
+"Yes; you'll see her presently," I replied; "and you won't wonder that I
+like her better than all my other things."
+
+I led the way at once by a footpath from the lodge across the sloping
+green meadow, then through a little tangled copse, and finally a short
+rocky descent to what was at Braycombe always styled _the_ Cove. Not but
+that there were many coves on our beautiful indented coast, but this one
+was the most accessible on our grounds. The boat-house and the
+bathing-box were both here; and here, too, as being within easy reach, I
+had from earliest years climbed and scrambled and explored, until every
+stone was almost as familiar as the letters of my alphabet; and I could
+tell at what state of the tide certain rocks would be uncovered, and
+knew at a glance whether it would be safe to cross from one part to
+another on stepping-stones, or whether, to reach a given spot, we must
+go round by the side of the hill. How I loved, and do love, every foot
+of the ground, every stone, every rock, every silvery ripple of that the
+most charming of all possible play-grounds!
+
+Thither, then, I led the way, Aleck following me closely, and George
+more slowly behind.
+
+"There now," I cried, drawing up breathlessly as we gained our
+destination, "see, that's my boat-house." It was an exact miniature of
+the real boat-house, and Aleck stood transfixed with admiration looking
+at it; for of all things calculated for the amusement of children,
+nothing, I think, succeeds so well as real miniatures--imitations in
+proportion--of things which belong to the grown-up world. But the true
+kernel of the nut--the jewel of the case--was the elegant little model
+yacht, which I presently drew forth from her moorings within.
+
+"Now that's the 'Fair Alice,'" I continued; "isn't she lovely?"
+
+"Awfully jolly," Aleck replied, after gazing for a moment in speechless
+admiration. "I never saw anything half so nice before! Oh, if only we
+were small enough to get into it! Just look how beautifully the deck is
+made--I can see all the little timbers; and the mast, it's nearly as
+high as I am; and those little pulleys--oh, how perfect they are!"
+
+"You must see her with all her sails set, a-scudding before the breeze,
+Master Gordon," said George, overtaking us. "I reckon there's not a
+craft of her size that would beat her for speed."
+
+"Can you do the sails?" my cousin asked me, regardless of nautical
+phraseology.
+
+"Master Willie! he knows as much as a sailor born about reefing and
+unreefing the sails," said George, answering for me.
+
+"Then please do let us sail her at once. I do long to see her on the
+water," begged Aleck.
+
+And accordingly we two sat down, overlooked by George, who, from a
+delicate desire to show off my capacity to manage the sails alone,
+abstained from offering any help; and, drawing the boat up between us on
+the beach, set the sails, and then proceeded to launch her upon the
+clear deep water of the Cove.
+
+"This way now," I said to my cousin, when we saw that the breeze was
+filling the sails, and the "Fair Alice" was making her way out towards
+the mouth of the Cove. "Come and see my harbour bar;" and springing
+quickly from rock to rock, and running where there was sand, I guided my
+cousin to the entrance of the Cove, which was very narrow in proportion
+to the width and extent of the inlet. On each side of it there was a low
+stake strongly fastened into the rock, and from stake to stake a rope
+was stretched: it was long enough to lie along the bottom of the
+ground, and so offer no impediment to the boats; but when I was sailing
+my vessel in the Cove, and the tide was in, it was always stretched more
+tightly, so as to prevent the possibility of my little ship escaping
+from me into the wide sea.
+
+"See," I said, "I have only to slip this ring over the stake, and then I
+can feel quite sure the 'Fair Alice' is safe. She can't get past my
+harbour bar."
+
+In the meantime the little yacht had kept her course nearly to the
+entrance of the Cove, but a sudden shifting of the wind landed her on
+the opposite side, and I had to make my way all round to get her off
+again. Aleck remained on his side of the Cove, and we amused ourselves
+for some time in contriving to get the little boat to sail backwards and
+forwards, tacking gradually down to the boat-house.
+
+My cousin was so absorbed in the enjoyment of sailing the "Fair Alice,"
+that he was less eager about getting into our own boat for a sail than
+at first. But by-and-by, when we were dancing over the waves outside the
+Cove, he became quite wild with delight, and enjoyed himself, I verily
+believe, as much as is possible for a free, happy, eager boy; and that
+is saying a great deal. Of course I caught the infection from him,
+finding a fresh delight in my ordinary amusements through having a
+companion to share them; and, truly, a merrier boat's crew than we made
+on that whole holiday morning could not have been found.
+
+[Illustration: SAILING THE "FAIR ALICE."]
+
+Aleck's love for the sea was an absorbing passion; and it quite amused
+me to hear all the questions he kept putting to old George--as, for
+instance, how old he was when he went to sea; how long before he went up
+the mast; how they reefed the top-sails in his vessel, and which of the
+ship's company did it in a gale; together with many other inquiries,
+showing a degree of technical knowledge that perfectly overwhelmed me,
+and which, he explained to us, was extracted from "The Cadet's Manual,"
+and a big book on "The Art of Navigation" which they had at home.
+
+I almost wished my cousin did not know quite so much; it made me feel as
+though the ten months were a longer and more important period than I had
+admitted to myself. But it was a relief, when the oars were called into
+action on our way in, to find that he could not row, whereas I had
+handled an oar almost as soon as I gave up a rattle; and, as I showed
+off my best feathering, I felt we were equal again.
+
+"How is it you can't row, sir, when you know so much about it?" asked
+Groves.
+
+"Why, there are only streams and the river at my home in Scotland,"
+explained Aleck. "We're up amongst the hills, you know. I have often
+fished, but I've scarcely ever been in a boat before, except when we've
+been travelling; and then it was going out to the steamer, and I
+mightn't do anything but sit still. It was famous, though, in the
+steamer," continued Aleck, kindling with the recollection of his
+journey. "I went down, and saw how the engine worked; and helped the man
+at the wheel; and learned about the compass--at least, I knew the points
+before, but it was different seeing how to steer by it. Only I liked the
+stoker the best. I had just gone down again with him to the engine-room,
+to see the engine stopped, and pulled off my jacket because it was so
+hot; and then the steam was let off, and made such a noise! Just when
+there was all the noise of the steam, I heard somebody shouting my name,
+and calling so loudly to me that I ran up to the deck at once. I had
+quite forgotten about not having my jacket on, and I believe my face had
+got blacked--it was, I know, when we got on shore. Everybody laughed at
+me; only mamma was poorly and frightened--she thought I had tumbled
+overboard. I suppose I oughtn't to have gone down just then, for that
+was the place where we were to go on shore," Aleck added, somewhat
+thoughtfully, remembering how very white was the face to which his own
+blackened one had been pressed.
+
+By this time we were re-entering the Cove.
+
+"You'll only be just in time for your dinner, young gentlemen," said
+George, as we drew in towards the landing-place; "I reckon it won't come
+a minute before you're ready for it."
+
+"You'll teach me to row, will you not, as soon as possible?" said my
+cousin, as we parted. "I should like to begin at once, please."
+
+"So soon as you like, sir. Master Willie, you mustn't be long in
+bringing down your cousin."
+
+Thus saying, Groves took his way to the lodge, and Aleck and I clambered
+quickly up the Zig-zag, reaching home in time to appear, with smooth
+hair, and rosy cheeks, and keen appetites, at the luncheon-table.
+
+Aleck was in wild spirits, and confided to me that he didn't think he
+had ever enjoyed himself so much before.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+THE RIDE TO STAVEMOOR.
+
+
+A month after Aleck's arrival at Braycombe, it seemed so perfectly
+natural to have him with us--he had fitted so completely into the
+position of companion, play-fellow, school-fellow, brother--that I could
+scarcely fancy how it felt before he came.
+
+My uncle and aunt had left us after a fortnight's visit, and were now on
+the Continent. The parting was hard work--harder, I fancy, to them than
+to him, for boys soon get over trouble, whereas it was plain to see in
+my aunt's wistful eyes that it was a sore trial to her to leave her
+child behind. I believe that she did not anticipate, in as sanguine a
+spirit as did her husband, the happy meeting again that was talked of
+for the spring, after a winter in Madeira.
+
+It was a subject of great thankfulness, to both my uncle and aunt, that
+Aleck and I had formed such a friendship for each other. They had
+scarcely driven from the door, and Aleck's eyes were still wet with
+tears, when he told me that he did not think he could be so happy
+anywhere away from his papa and mamma as at Braycombe, with me for his
+companion; and I answered by assuring him I should never be happy again
+if he were to go away from me.
+
+We soon settled down into our school-room occupations together. Mr.
+Glengelly, who used to come three times in the week, now came daily,
+staying for the whole morning, and leaving us always lessons to prepare
+for the next day. Aleck and I spent almost the whole of our play-time
+down at the Cove; his passionate enjoyment of everything connected with
+the sea continuing in full force, whilst two or three times every week
+we had walks, rides, or drives with one or both of my parents.
+
+Aleck could ride beautifully, having been accustomed to it at his own
+home, and I was delighted to lend him my pony from time to time--more
+ready at first, if the truth is to be told, than afterwards. He also
+learned to row, though not so quickly nor so easily as I should have
+expected; and feathering remained an impossible mystery to him, being,
+as he said, more than could be expected from his clumsy fingers.
+
+In this one point--that of being unskilful in the use of his
+hands--Aleck was below the mark; in lessons he was far my superior,
+being, as I soon found, more than his year ahead of me. But, oddly
+enough, as it seemed to me, it was always in matters requiring skilled
+fingers that he was anxious to excel. He was never tired of playing at
+sailing the "Fair Alice," but would daily, before we launched her,
+examine afresh all the different parts of the little vessel, and sigh
+over the neatness of their workmanship, and ask himself and myself
+whether it were possible he should ever be able to make a ship like it.
+Various abortive attempts were to be seen in our play-room--pieces of
+wood cut, and shaped, and thrown away in disgust; but as yet he made no
+progress towards anything like skill in carpentry. The old play-boat of
+mine which I had given, to him afforded very little pleasure: it was not
+like a real vessel. Having seen the "Fair Alice," anything that fell
+short of it gave him no satisfaction. It added greatly to the pleasure
+which I had always felt in this possession, to see how ardently my
+cousin admired it, and how much he thought of the title of _captain_,
+which, as owner, had been playfully adjudged to me.
+
+I scarcely know when it was that the feeling first began to steal over
+me that I was not always quite so glad as I had been at first that my
+cousin was living with us. It was an unworthy feeling, and I felt
+ashamed to confess it to myself; but there it was, and I discovered it
+at last.
+
+Perhaps it was because of his quickness at lessons; perhaps because,
+from time to time in his turn, enjoyments which could not be shared by
+both were permitted to him--I had only the half, where before I should
+have had the whole; perhaps it was all this together, combined with the
+secret evils I had not hitherto found out in my own heart and
+disposition; but the result was, that I had now and then such miserable
+moments of being angry, and provoked, and unhappy, not because my cousin
+had done anything unkind, but simply because he had, in some
+unintentional manner, interfered with my pleasure, that I was ready to
+wish I had never had a cousin, or that he had never come to Braycombe.
+
+It is not to be supposed that this was my settled, constant state of
+mind. Far from it. In general, we two boys were as frisky, and merry,
+and happy with each other, as boys could be; but these dark feelings
+came and went, and came and went, until I began to be less surprised at
+them than when I first found them out. For some time my mother had no
+idea of their existence. To all outward appearance we were just as we
+had been in the early days of our friendship; and if I did not so often
+enlarge upon the happiness of having Aleck to live with me, I know now
+that she only put it down to the novelty of the companionship wearing
+off. I remember quite distinctly the first time that she noticed some
+little indication of the secret mischief that was going on. It was the
+time of afternoon preparation of lessons for the following morning, and
+I was sitting with my books before me at the school-room table, writing
+a Latin exercise; or perhaps it would be more correct to say, _not_
+writing my Latin exercise, for my pen had stopped half-way to the
+ink-bottle, and my chin was resting on my left hand and my elbow on the
+table, and I was indulging uninterruptedly in my own reflections, when
+the door opened, and my mother entered the room.
+
+"Where's Aleck?" was her first inquiry, as she looked round and saw that
+I was alone.
+
+"He's been gone five minutes," I replied, without raising my eyes, and
+in a tone which I meant to convey--and, I am aware, did convey--that I
+was in no pleasant mood.
+
+"How's that?" rejoined my mother, taking no notice of my manner. "Aleck
+was told not to leave the school-room until his lessons were finished.
+He knows my rule, and is not generally disobedient. I must go and see
+about him. Where is he?"
+
+"In his room, I suppose"--still in my former sulky manner; and, without
+further words, my mother left the room, and went in search of my
+cousin. I presently heard her voice calling to him at the foot of the
+stair-case leading to our rooms, and Aleck's voice more distantly
+replying to her. As, however, he did not immediately appear, I heard
+afterwards that she had gone up-stairs, and found him pulling down his
+sleeves and shaking off pieces of wood, and generally endeavouring to
+render his appearance respectable; which was made the more difficult as,
+in the course of his operations, he had dipped his elbow in the
+glue-pot, and was considerably embarrassed by the fringe of shavings
+which he was unable to detach.
+
+"I'm coming as fast as I can, auntie," he said, pulling at the shavings,
+and giving himself a rub with a duster in hopes that would make him
+right.
+
+"But, Aleck, how is it you're not in the school-room?" said my mother.
+"I have just seen Willie there alone. You know the rule about not
+leaving until lessons are finished. I fear that you have been tempted
+away too soon by your ship-building tastes."
+
+"Did not Willie tell you I had finished my lessons?" said Aleck,
+quickly. "Oh, auntie, I would not have left before."
+
+"Really finished, Aleck? Take care to be quite honest with yourself, for
+indeed you've had but short time."
+
+"Really and truly, auntie. I tried to be very quick to-day, because I do
+so want to get on with this last ship I've begun. It seems coming more
+like than the others. See, the stern is very like a real one."
+
+My mother carefully inspected the unshapely block upon which my cousin
+was at work, gave him a word or two of advice upon the subject, and came
+down-stairs again to me; having decided in her own mind, as she
+afterwards told me, to be present the next morning when Mr. Glengelly
+came, and notice whether Aleck's work had been thoroughly prepared.
+
+"How soon shall you have finished, my child?" she said, laying her hand
+softly on my shoulder, and bending down to inspect my writing. "Let me
+see what there is to be done."
+
+"This exercise, and the verb to be learned, and my sum"--very grumpily.
+
+"And how much have you done already?"
+
+"Part of the exercise--not quite half; and I'm doing the verb now; and
+the sum is finished, all but the proving."
+
+My lip was quivering as I completed the list of what I had achieved, and
+I was as nearly bursting into tears as possible.
+
+My mother's loving, pleasant way staved off the sulky fit, however.
+
+"These lessons begun, and not one of them finished off!" she exclaimed.
+"Let us see how long they will take you. First the exercise, we will
+allow a quarter of an hour for that; five minutes will prove your sum;
+and the verb, an old one you say and very nearly perfect, two minutes
+for that: less than twenty-five minutes, Willie, and you will be so
+perfectly prepared that you will be longing for ten o'clock to-morrow,
+and Mr. Glengelly to come, all the rest of the evening."
+
+I could not help laughing at the notion of my pining for Mr. Glengelly's
+arrival, and a laugh is an excellent stepping-stone out of the sulks. My
+mother put her watch on the table, and stayed in the room, helping me by
+quiet sympathizing superintendence, and I set to work with such
+earnestness that I had completed my tasks in twenty minutes, and was off
+to the play-room without a trace of my wrong temper, as eager to join my
+cousin in the carpentry as if nothing had gone wrong between us, and
+only rejoicing that my lessons were over at last, without troubling
+myself to remember that the trial of Aleck's being so much quicker than
+myself at his studies was sure to recur again and again, and that,
+unless my dislike to his superiority could be conquered and stamped out,
+I should soon find every-day trouble in my every-day work.
+
+And in truth the conquering and stamping out of such feelings as these
+is no easy task. It is unquestionably a real trial to find that work
+which takes you an hour's hard labour can be accomplished by your
+companion in not much more than half the time; that even though the
+lessons are apportioned so as to give him the heavier burden, he can
+always dispose of the heavier more readily than you can of the lighter.
+In my own case, Aleck was often very good-natured, and would linger in
+_his_ work to give me a help in _mine_; or purposely keep pace with me,
+so that we might go out to play together. But this was not always the
+way; when he was very eagerly engaged in any play-time occupation, he
+would bend all his energies to getting his tasks finished off quickly,
+and then hurry away, without appearing in the least troubled that I
+could not accompany him. Upon which occasions I thought him selfish and
+unfeeling, and was inclined not a little to regret that he had ever come
+to Braycombe.
+
+The worst of it was, that though I knew I was wrong, I could not muster
+courage to speak to either of my parents about it; no, not even in that
+moment of deepest confidence when my mother looked in to wish me
+good-night before I went to sleep, and sat, as she was wont to do, upon
+my bed talking to me about the various things which had happened during
+the day.
+
+Many a time, on such occasions, I thought of telling her my troubles,
+but was afraid lest she should think me very naughty; so I tried at last
+to persuade myself there was not much to tell after all.
+
+Half an hour spent with us in the school-room the next morning convinced
+my mother that Aleck's work had been well done. I fancy that she watched
+me a little closely for a few days, but I happened to be specially
+prosperous in my lessons, and nothing occurred to disturb my serenity,
+so that she dismissed after a time the anxiety which had begun to arise
+in her mind concerning me.
+
+As for Aleck, he had no notion of the real state of things. I am sure he
+must have thought me selfish and cross very often, but almost as often
+he would win me into good temper again; and his own temperament was
+naturally so bright and sunshiny, that trouble never seemed to remain
+long with him.
+
+It was about a fortnight later that I was sitting, after breakfast, in
+my father's study doing my arithmetic. Our school-room adjoined the
+study, and it was not an unfrequent arrangement, that whilst Aleck did
+his construing with Mr. Glengelly, I should take in my slate to my
+father's room and do my sums. I fancy he liked to have me with him; for
+whenever he was at home he would look up with quite a pleased expression
+when, after knocking at the door, I appeared with my slate and made the
+usual inquiry whether I should disturb him if I came in just then; and
+would tell me that I never disturbed him, and bid me show him my sum
+before I returned to the school-room, when he had always some pleasant
+remark to make upon it.
+
+I then was sitting on my favourite seat in the window working at
+compound division, when my mother came into the room.
+
+"I've been thinking," she said to my father, "that it's a pity both the
+boys should not go with you to Stavemoor: if you could manage without
+Rickson, or let him ride one of the carriage horses, I think you might
+trust Aleck on the gray."
+
+I listened to every word, my pencil going slowly and more slowly, whilst
+I put down three times nine, twenty-seven--two, carry seven; and was
+hopelessly wrong afterwards in consequence. This ride to Stavemoor was a
+special pleasure in prospect. Both Aleck and I had wanted to go; but the
+pony being mine, I had taken it as a matter of course that I should be
+the one chosen, and my cousin had not thought of questioning my rights.
+But now to hear my mother quietly proposing, not only that Aleck should
+go, but that he should ride the gray--it was a sore trial to my
+feelings: that gray had for months been the object of my ambition, but I
+had not been thought a good enough rider to be trusted, and now that my
+cousin should be thus promoted was hard to bear.
+
+The colour mounted to my face when I heard the proposition, and then my
+father's answer:--
+
+"I am not sure about it; and yet the boy is at home in the saddle, and
+has a firm seat. I'll speak to Rickson. Aleck's been looking pale of
+late, and I think more rides than he can get when there's only the pony
+between the two boys, would do him good."
+
+"Papa," I said, with quivering lip and reproachful voice, "you've never
+let _me_ ride the gray. It's always Aleck now--he gets everything, it
+doesn't seem to matter about me."
+
+My father gave one quick glance of surprise and consternation at my
+mother, and then turned to me:--
+
+"Willie! my own little Willie!" he said, pausing as if for an
+explanation, and putting out his hand in a manner that meant I was to
+come to his side, which I did rather slowly.
+
+"I've so often asked you to let me ride the gray, papa, and you've never
+allowed it, and now you're going to let Aleck. I don't want to go to
+Stavemoor--Aleck may have the pony; I wish I had said so at first; I
+don't want to ride the pony, and have him on the gray." And thereupon,
+almost frightened by the evident distress my sentiments had occasioned,
+I burst into a passionate fit of crying, which permitted only a few more
+broken words to the effect that I wished Aleck had never come to
+Braycombe; I hated his being there; and that my parents were very unkind
+to care for him more than they did for me.
+
+My father held me there at his side whilst I sobbed and cried as if some
+tremendous calamity had overtaken me. I knew without looking up, which I
+was ashamed to do, that his eyes were resting upon me with an expression
+of sad surprise; and the silence became perfectly unbearable. He spoke
+at last:--
+
+"My poor little Willie," he said, "what sad feelings you have allowed to
+creep into your heart! how unhappy they will make you! You have said
+very wrong words, my child, and I cannot tell you how much pain you have
+caused to me and your mamma. I hope that you will be very sorry
+by-and-by; but you know, Willie, being sorry will not undo your fault,
+nor take away the envious feelings which you have allowed to spring up
+within you; and unless such feelings as these are conquered you will be
+an unhappy little boy, and grow up to be an unhappy man. Willie," he
+added, after another pause only interrupted by my struggling sobs at
+longer intervals than at first, "you know, my child, whose strength you
+will need to help you in the battle: you are but a weak little boy, and
+cannot help yourself; you must pray for the help of God's Holy Spirit,
+or else you will never conquer these wrong feelings."
+
+I hung my head, and remained silent.
+
+"I trust Aleck knows nothing of all this," resumed my father. "We have
+promised to care for him as though he belonged to us. I will not allow
+him to feel that he is disliked by the boy who promised to love him."
+
+"No, papa," I put in, for my temper had well-nigh expended itself; "I
+do like him still--rather--only not always. I like him very much
+sometimes: I think now I'm very glad he came--only I don't like his
+having things that I mayn't have."
+
+"That, Willie," answered my father, "must be left to me to decide. I
+shall miss my little boy very much this afternoon; but I cannot allow
+you to come to Stavemoor with me to-day, after all that has passed."
+
+There was just this ray of comfort in the announcement, that at least
+Aleck would not on this particular occasion gain the object of my
+ambition.
+
+"Is Aleck to ride my pony, then?" I inquired, half ashamed of myself for
+asking.
+
+The quick, decided manner, in which my father withdrew the arm he held
+around me, and answered,--
+
+"Certainly not, unless I find Rickson thinks the gray would be unsafe,"
+made me feel more unhappy than ever; and it was with a sorrowful heart
+that I obeyed a summons to the school-room brought in at that moment by
+my cousin, and showed up my incorrect and unfinished sum to Mr.
+Glengelly.
+
+I suppose that he saw something had gone wrong with me, by my
+appearance; he was certainly more merciful than usual over my
+shortcomings in arithmetic, and the lesson-time went by so pleasantly
+that I was quite in good humour by the time it ended, and went out in
+restored spirits for the half hour's exercise which preceded our dinner,
+determining that, the first moment I could see my father, I would tell
+him I was sorry, revoke what I had said about Aleck, and ride my pony to
+Stavemoor.
+
+In furtherance of these views, I ran round by the stables, and finding
+that only Peter the Great and the gray had been ordered, told Rickson in
+confidence that I had said to my father in the morning I would rather
+not ride; but, having changed my mind since then, he was to be sure and
+be ready to send round the pony as well.
+
+Aleck, in the meantime, heard of the treat in store for him, and was
+greatly elated, chattering briskly during dinner about the expedition,
+without any idea that I was likely to be left behind.
+
+My father was not a great luncheon eater, and when very busy, would
+often only have a glass of wine and a biscuit sent into the study,
+instead of joining us at table. Finding this was to be the case on the
+present occasion, I asked leave to carry in the tray, and was permitted
+to do so after I had finished my own dinner.
+
+My father was at his writing, and looked up when he saw me, making a
+place amongst his papers at the same time for the tray.
+
+"Papa," I said, when I had put it down, "I'm sorry for what I said this
+morning. I don't mind Aleck's riding the gray; and please I should like
+to ride my own pony. I saw Rickson before dinner, and told him I had
+changed my mind, and that very likely the pony would be wanted."
+
+My father answered, in a quiet, grave voice: "You might have spared
+yourself the trouble, Willie, of speaking to Rickson, for, though I'm
+sorry to leave you behind, I cannot allow you the pleasure of the ride
+to Stavemoor this afternoon."
+
+"But, papa," I pleaded, "you always forgive me when I say I am sorry."
+
+"And I do not say now that I will not _forgive_ the wrong things you
+said this morning," he answered; "but I cannot let your conduct pass
+without punishment. You must remember, my child," he added, drawing me
+towards him, "that _forgiving_ and _not punishing_ are very different
+things. Do you remember when God forgave David his sin, yet He punished
+him by the death of his son. And it would be contrary to His commands if
+Christian parents were to allow their children's faults to be
+_unpunished_, although it is a Christian duty to exercise a _forgiving
+spirit_."
+
+The practical result of this statement was what I thought of most; it
+was clear to my mind that the ride to Stavemoor had to be given up, and
+my brow grew cloudy.
+
+"Then, papa," I said, poutingly, "I mayn't go with you this afternoon?"
+
+"Certainly not, Willie," very decidedly; "you will spend one hour, from
+the time we start, in your own room; and I trust that you will remember
+during that time--_if you are_ really sorry--that mine is not the only
+forgiveness you have to seek."
+
+"Aleck's, papa?"
+
+"No, not Aleck's; I hope he will never have an idea of all the wrong
+feelings you have entertained towards him."
+
+"You mean God's forgiveness," I said, more seriously; for that was a
+name never to be pronounced without deep reverence.
+
+"Yes, Willie; don't forget, my child, that the youngest as well as the
+oldest of us has need to seek the Fountain opened for all uncleanness.
+No repentance will wash us clean. You must ask, through the Lord Jesus,
+not only that your sins may be forgiven, but that you may also have
+strength to do better for the future. You may go now. Remember what I
+said about the hour in your own room."
+
+I departed accordingly, passing Aleck in the passage all ready and
+equipped for his ride. Brushing past him, without giving an answer to
+his inquiry whether I was going to get ready, I ran quickly up-stairs to
+my own room, shut the door, and burst into tears.
+
+By-and-by I heard the horses coming round; then I wiped my eyes, and
+kneeling upon a chair at the window, where I could not be seen, watched
+all the proceedings.
+
+Rickson, faithful to my interests, had, I perceived, brought up the pony
+ready saddled. I almost hoped that Aleck would have had it after all.
+But no; I saw him in another moment mounted upon the gray, which,
+apparently conscious of a lighter weight than usual, began shaking its
+head, and showing off its mettle. Rickson held it firmly. "So-ho!
+so-ho!" I heard him saying. "Ease her a bit, Master Gordon; ease her
+mouth; there--there--so-ho!"
+
+Aleck held the reins firmly, and his ringing voice came up cheerily
+through the air.
+
+"I'm not a bit afraid, thank you, Uncle Grant."
+
+My father in the meantime mounted Peter the Great; and before starting I
+saw the stable-boy give him a leading rein, which he put into his
+pocket, for future use I mentally decided, in case Aleck should have
+difficulty in managing the gray. But no such difficulty occurred within
+the range of my observation. When Rickson removed his hand from the
+bridle she bounded off rather friskily; but in another moment Aleck had
+reined her in, and was displaying such ready ease in the management of
+his steed, that it was clear my father's confidence in his horsemanship
+was justified.
+
+As I turned round from the window I heard my mother's soft footstep in
+the passage, and in another moment she had entered my room. She had her
+walking things on, and a little basket in her hand, well known to me as
+invariably containing jellies, puddings, or packets of tea for some of
+the many invalids to whom my mother was as an angel of mercy. She
+stopped only for two or three minutes, to tell me how thankful she was
+to know I had felt sorry for my behaviour in the morning, and how
+grieved to have to leave me at home when she would have liked me to have
+been out riding with my father, or walking with her; and then, after
+some further words of monition, she left me to my solitary hour's watch,
+and I could see her taking her way down the drive, and turning off
+through the wood, until the last flutter of her blue ribbons was lost in
+the distance. Then I bethought me of seeing how much longer I had to
+spend in my own room, and, looking at the clock-tower over the stables,
+found it was scarcely more than three o'clock. I could not feel free
+until a quarter to four, and the time began to feel very long and
+wearisome.
+
+In general, I was a boy of manifold resources, and every moment of my
+leisure time seemed too short for the many purposes to which I would
+willingly have applied it. But on this particular afternoon I seemed to
+weary of everything. Even my last new book of fairy stories failed to
+interest me. I felt as if, instead of fancying myself the hero of the
+tale, I was perpetually being compared, by my own conscience, to the
+unamiable characters--Cinderella's sisters, for instance, or the elder
+of the two princes who lived in a country long ago and nowhere in
+particular; elder brothers being in fairy tales, as all true
+connoisseurs are aware, jealous, cruel, and sure to come to a bad end;
+whilst the younger brothers are persecuted, forgiving, and finally
+triumphant, marrying disenchanted princesses, and living happy ever
+after. I threw aside my fairy book, and sought for some other means of
+amusement in a repository of odds and ends, established in a corner of
+the room by the housemaid, whose efforts to observe order in disorder
+were most praiseworthy. There I was glad to discover a piece of
+willow-bough stripped of its twigs, and in course of preparation for the
+manufacture of a bow. Immediately I set myself to adjusting a piece of
+string to it, and completing its construction. This occupation was far
+more engrossing than the reading had proved; and almost sooner than I
+had expected, the three-quarters chime of the clock proclaimed my
+liberation. I seized my garden hat, ran down-stairs, and sped out upon
+the lawn, determined to feel very merry, and to enjoy trying my
+newly-made bow as much as possible. It was annoying that Frisk had gone
+with the horses--it made me feel more lonely not to have him to play
+with; but still, my hour's imprisonment being over, I thought I could
+find plenty of amusement. So I began firing away certain home-made
+arrows, to which my mother's loving fingers had carefully fastened
+feathers; putting up a flower-pot on a stand as a mark, and trying to
+hit it. But the arrows did not go very far after all, and I leant down
+upon the bow and tightened the string, and then tightened it again,
+until there was a sudden snap, and a collapse--it had broken in two
+pieces! I threw the bow aside in disgust, and went off into the
+shrubbery, and then down the carriage drive, hoping to meet my mother;
+but she happened to be detained that afternoon at one of the cottages
+where she was visiting, and missed her usual time for returning. Feeling
+very dreary and disconsolate, I finally wandered back again into the
+house, and hung about in the different rooms in a listless, dissatisfied
+mood, until, at about half past five, I could hear the rapid tread of
+horses' feet, and in another moment my father and Aleck cantered up to
+the door. Frisk was flourishing about in his usual style, and found me
+out in a moment, jumping up upon my shoulders, and licking my hands, and
+expressing in perfectly comprehensible language his regret that I had
+not been of the party, and his pleasure in seeing me again.
+
+Aleck was in a high state of spirits, triumphant at having proved
+himself sufficient of a horseman to manage the gray, and delighted with
+all the incidents of the expedition. He did not know the reason of my
+having stayed at home; but told me how sorry he was I had not been with
+them, and tumultuously recounted the various pleasures he had enjoyed.
+
+"See, I've got lots of shells," he said, "and several beautiful
+madrepores. You must have some of them. They'd had a wedding, too, and
+we had to eat some of the bride-cake, and drink their health, and--"
+
+But Aleck's enumeration did not proceed further, for I think my father
+perceived how keenly I was feeling the contrast between his joyous
+excitement and my own very dreary heaviness of heart, and called to me
+to come to the study with him, and put away his riding whip. So I gladly
+turned away from my cousin, and followed my father to his room.
+
+To some children, the study, library, or whatever other room is
+consecrated to the use of the head of the family, is a sort of dreadful
+and solemn place, generally closed to them, but opening from time to
+time as a court of justice, to which they are brought when their
+misdemeanours have exceeded usual bounds, and are considered to require
+severer measures than are within the province of the lesser
+authorities. Very alarming, in consequence, is the summons when it
+comes.
+
+With me, however, the case was happily very different; the study was
+associated with countless hours of happy intercourse with a father whose
+very countenance was beaming with love. Times of reproof and punishment
+there had been also, but the returning happiness of forgiveness, the
+loving words of advice, the kind and constant sympathy, I never failed
+to find from him, made me look upon an invitation to his room as the
+best thing that could happen to me, whether I was happy or in trouble.
+
+"My poor little Willie," he said, sitting down almost immediately, and
+drawing me towards himself; "have you been very sorrowful?"
+
+I hid my face on his shoulder, and sobbed out that I was quite
+miserable.
+
+"Have you thought what it is that has made your day so sad, Willie?" he
+asked, kindly.
+
+"Yes, papa," I answered between my sobs; "I wasn't allowed to go to
+Stavemoor, and I was so unhappy in my own room all alone, and--and--I
+broke my bow just after I had finished making it--"
+
+"But the beginning of all this unhappiness, Willie--quite the
+beginning?"
+
+"Aleck's having the gray, papa," I said. "I think that was quite the
+beginning."
+
+"So do I think so, my child," rejoined my father; "or rather, the wrong
+feelings to which this gave rise. And now consider, Willie, how wrong
+and ungrateful you have been, to let this grow up into such a trouble.
+Just think of all to-day's mercies: your home, your loving papa and
+mamma, all the comforts that so many little boys are without; and then,
+besides all these, a pleasant excursion planned to give you special
+pleasure on your half holiday. And, in the midst of all these blessings,
+instead of being thankful and happy, you are suddenly overwhelmed, as
+though by a great misfortune; not because any of your enjoyments are to
+be diminished, but because another is to have a pleasure which you think
+greater."
+
+My father paused for a moment, and I could not help feeling that,
+according to his way of putting it, I certainly had been both naughty
+and foolish: still, it occurred to me that being happy was not in itself
+possible at all times; and that, similarly, if I were unhappy, I was
+unhappy, not by choice, but because it was not in my power to feel
+otherwise. I thought this, not indeed in words, or in any semblance of
+coherent argument, but in a sort of confused perplexity, which was only
+partly represented by my reply to my father:--
+
+"Papa, I couldn't help feeling unhappy when I heard you talking about
+Aleck's going. I couldn't make myself feel happy."
+
+"Ah, Willie, you've come to the root of the matter now," he
+answered;--"'_couldn't make myself_ feel happy!' That is just it,
+Willie; a wrong feeling of envy came into your heart--you know it was a
+wrong feeling that feeling of dislike that another should be happy, so I
+need not waste time in proving it to you; and you could not chase the
+enemy from your own heart, so, without ever remembering that there is
+One who promises to help all who cry to Him for help, and who is
+stronger than the strong man armed, you give in at once to the enemy;
+and as you couldn't help yourself, came out of the battle conquered and
+vanquished."
+
+I hung my head down, feeling I had been a coward. "I'm so sorry, papa,"
+I whispered.
+
+"I thought you would be ere long, my child," he said. "I hope you used
+the time in your room partly as I intended."
+
+I knew I hadn't, and felt still more ashamed of myself, but said
+nothing; I was never required to mention whether I had followed my
+parents' advice on such occasions, they were so fearful of making me a
+hypocrite.
+
+"Our heavenly Father will have forgiven you all your fault, if you have
+sought forgiveness through Jesus Christ; and now your earthly father is
+quite ready to forgive also, as you seem really sorry."
+
+My father gave me a kiss, and I threw my arms around his neck, and felt
+the loneliness and sadness of the day all over. My mother came in a few
+moments later, and joined us in the study, and with her loving, gentle
+words, completed my happiness in being forgiven and received back again
+into my usual position.
+
+She did not forget all that had passed, however. I found that out at our
+Bible readings; for almost the very next day she took for her subject
+with us boys, the sin of envy and its consequences, and the best means
+of conquering it. I can remember to this hour the different
+illustrations--Cain, and Saul, and the blood-thirsty Pharisees on the
+one side; and Moses, and David, and Jonathan, and Paul, on the other;
+and the verses we found out in Proverbs and in the Epistles: they
+perhaps did me some good at the time, but my heart was not really
+touched. I had not found out, in my own little personal experience, what
+my father meant by the _Fountain opened for all uncleanness_, and there
+were bitter but necessary lessons still in store for me.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+SHIP-BUILDING.
+
+
+My story would grow too long were I to tell of all the employments,
+amusements, and adventures, which made the months fly rapidly by with us
+boys that summer and autumn long ago at Braycombe.
+
+My cousin's companionship made me more than usually diligent in my
+studies, and more than usually eager in my amusements; whilst the
+watchful care of my parents seemed to screen me from many of the minor
+trials and temptations which might otherwise have rendered me less happy
+than I had been in former days.
+
+I can remember now with admiration, how carefully they measured out
+even-handed justice to my cousin and myself. They never seemed to forget
+that they had promised Aleck should be as my brother, therefore every
+arrangement took us equally into account. And although the meanness of
+envy was held by them to be not only sinful, but contemptible, they were
+quite alive to the keen sense of justice which is born with most
+children, and would never violate it by the exercise of a partiality too
+common amongst those who have the charge of the young, either with the
+object of giving me as their child some special pleasure, or Aleck as
+our visitor some special indulgence.
+
+It was not long after the Stavemoor expedition that I was allowed to try
+my horsemanship by mounting the gray. Rickson was on the alert; but had
+it not been for his interposition, my equestrian pursuits would have
+come to a very disastrous ending. I was convinced against my will of the
+wisdom of my father's decision, that I should for the present be content
+with my pony; relying, for consolation, on his promise that, before very
+long, I should learn to manage the more spirited animal. In the meantime
+I no longer felt it a trouble that my cousin's superior skill in this
+respect should be recognized.
+
+Aleck seemed to care less about the riding than I did. His passion for
+the sea--for boats, sea-weeds, stones, caves, and cliffs, everything
+directly and indirectly belonging to the sea--grew and strengthened upon
+him. His special ambition was to succeed in constructing a rival to the
+"Fair Alice;" but although honourable scars on his fingers bore witness
+to the industry with which he plied his tools, his attempts at
+ship-building had hitherto proved signal failures. I was more successful
+in my carpentry than he was, and it was quite a pleasure to me to give
+him all the help I could. Between us we at last produced something more
+resembling a ship than all former attempts, and we rushed eagerly down
+to the Cove one bright September afternoon, impatient for the launch.
+
+Aleck and I had the Cove all to ourselves: old George had not been with
+us so much as usual for weeks past; there were, indeed, few days we did
+not see him, but he did not stay with us all through our play-time; he
+would come and go, and come and go, until we boys would take to teasing
+him with questions as to what it could be that kept him so much
+occupied. I had my own private suspicions, and communicated them to
+Aleck; but old George would throw no light upon the subject.
+
+I had good reason for remembering that the 20th of September, now
+drawing near, was my parents' wedding-day, my mother's birth-day, and
+almost the greatest festival in the year to us at Braycombe. Old George,
+who lay in wait for opportunities of giving me presents, always looked
+upon this anniversary as one that would admit of no questioning, and
+more than once the offering to me--by which he meant to show his love to
+my parents--had been the result of many a long hour's secret work. The
+"Fair Alice" had been my present on the preceding year, and I had dim
+suspicions--built upon a certain hasty glance into a little room called
+the work-shop at the back of the lodge--that something else was even now
+in course of construction, which I half suspected to be a schooner-yacht
+with two masts, such as I had more than once expressed a wish to
+possess. But George was impenetrable, and kept the work-shop closely
+bolted, so I had to nurse my curiosity until the 20th. It was the day
+before this great occasion that Aleck and I ran down to launch our boat,
+as before-mentioned.
+
+Alas! we had scarcely pushed it out upon the water, when, with a roll
+and lurch, it turned over upon its side, and floated like a wreck, in a
+helpless and melancholy manner. We drew it up on shore again and set to
+work; I cheerily and hopefully, feeling perfectly aware that everything
+that was at all good in the workmanship was mine; Aleck mournfully,
+knowing that all the faults in its construction were his.
+
+"I wonder at Groves not coming," he said, presently; "I can't help
+thinking he could tell me how to make it float straight."
+
+"I'll just go and make him come," I replied; "he's been so little with
+us the last few days, I'm sure he might find time."
+
+Aleck agreed, and I set off to the lodge, leaving him to puzzle on by
+himself over the manifold difficulties of ship-building. To bring old
+George to the rescue, however, did not turn out the easy task that I had
+anticipated. He was in the work-shop, the door safely bolted, and not
+even the smallest aperture anywhere, through which I might discover the
+nature of his employment. My persuasions were all carried on at a
+disadvantage, and the conversation resolved itself into:--
+
+"Please, George, _do_ come and help us; it's very important. Aleck wants
+you particularly down at the Cove." This from my side of the door.
+
+Then from his side:--"I'm afraid, Master Willie, I can't possibly find
+the time; I'm very busy."
+
+From my side:--"But Aleck's boat won't sail, and we've tried everything
+to make it, and unless you come we can't do anything more."
+
+From his side:--"I'll come to-morrow, Master Willie, and then see if we
+don't get Master Aleck's ship to sail as merrily as the 'Fair Alice'
+herself."
+
+"Even _you_ will not be able to do so much as that," I rejoined;
+whereupon a low chuckle of merriment and satisfaction was clearly
+audible on the other side. I continued:--"It's very well to laugh, but
+if you could see Aleck's boat all lying on one side, looking not so nice
+even as the tub-boat in the 'Swiss Family Robinson,' you wouldn't think
+it so easily made all right."
+
+No answer; but click, click inside.
+
+"At least, do tell me what you're working at," I said, growing
+impatient, and battering at the door; "do tell me--there's a dear old
+George."
+
+"Work that can't be hindered by playing with two young gentlemen all the
+afternoon. There, sir, now I've told you;" and another chuckle followed,
+and click, click went on as before.
+
+I had no excuse for lingering longer. George was like a besieged
+garrison within a secure fortress; there was no chance of enticing him
+out beyond the shelter of his walls. So I could only return discomfited
+to the Cove.
+
+"There's no use trying," I said to Aleck. "All that old George will
+promise is to come out to-morrow, and make your boat sail as well as the
+'Fair Alice' herself: those are his words."
+
+"He's not very likely to be able to do that," responded Aleck, dolefully
+surveying our workmanship. "I've been trying to trim it with a stone
+stuck securely on and tarred over; but look, even that has come off
+again, and it will do nothing but turn over in that wretched way. If I
+had been trying to construct a wreck now, I'm sure I couldn't have made
+anything more like."
+
+"And that's something, after all," I said, encouragingly. "It's not
+every one that could have made a wreck."
+
+But my cousin took little comfort from the suggestion; he stood looking
+and pondering, until, at last, after some minutes' pause, he drew a long
+breath and exclaimed, as if from depths of internal conviction, "I'll
+tell you what; I must pull it all to pieces, and put it together quite
+afresh--from the beginning."
+
+"A strong-minded decision, and spoken out most heroically, Mr.
+Shipbuilder!" said a voice from behind, and we started at finding my
+father had come upon us so quietly that we had not perceived him. "You
+two boys are just like a pair of doctors consulting over a bad case;
+only you've come to what is happily rather an unusual conclusion,
+namely, that the best plan is to kill the patient!"
+
+"I think the patient's dead already," answered Aleck, tragically.
+
+"And you're only going to dissect him--is that it?" asked my father
+merrily, inspecting the boat, and listening with interest to the various
+measures which had already been tried and had failed. "Well," he added,
+"if my opinion as a consulting physician is to be taken, I should
+recommend Groves as the best surgeon; his advice to be followed in every
+particular, and all operations he may suggest to be duly performed."
+
+"We've asked him," we both exclaimed, "and he said he was too busy to
+come."
+
+"But," I added, "he promises that to-morrow he will make Aleck's boat
+sail as well as mine."
+
+"His must be uncommonly clever fingers if they are equal to that task,"
+said my father doubtingly; "but, as I said before, Surgeon Groves is the
+man for your bad case. And now I should like to know which of you means
+to stay at home to-morrow morning and learn the lessons which ought to
+be prepared this afternoon, and which will not be ready unless we are
+betaking ourselves home very soon? You, Willie?"
+
+"No, papa," I said, "nor Aleck either; we mean to have a very
+delightful, long, whole holiday, and to do no lessons at all, not the
+very smallest little bit of one." And so saying, we picked up the boat
+and various other belongings, and, one on each side of my father, took
+the way of the Zig-zag up towards home.
+
+"We haven't quite settled all we are going to do to-morrow, papa," I
+proceeded; "but if we may, we want to have the boat in the morning, and
+sail the 'Fair Alice,' and go out to some place for madrepores; and
+George is going to see about Aleck's boat too. And then, in the
+afternoon, we would play cricket with you, dear papa."
+
+"I am much obliged to you, Willie," answered my father, playfully bowing
+to me, "and feel greatly honoured at your kind arrangement for my
+amusement. Perhaps you have planned for your mamma also; is she to
+field-out when I take my innings? or possibly she will bowl!"
+
+"Auntie couldn't soon put you out if she were to bowl," said Aleck,
+laughing; "it would not do to trust Auntie with the ball."
+
+"Then, perhaps, the wicket?" suggested my father.
+
+"Now, papa, you know," I interposed, "you will be all alone with dear
+mamma in the morning--you always are--but you always do play with me in
+the afternoon; and now that Aleck is here to play also, it will be so
+jolly. Please, dear papa, do say you will."
+
+"Shall I say, like the poor people, _I'll consider of it?_" answered my
+father. "But allow me to state to you both that I am at present
+considering another thing, which is, that so long as I have you two boys
+clinging one at each side of me, I am reduced to the necessity of
+climbing this steep hill with a matter of twelve stone in tow, and that
+at my time of life I ought rather to be looking upon you young people as
+crutches to assist my failing steps."
+
+"Do use me as a crutch, papa!" I exclaimed.
+
+"Please, uncle, let me be another crutch," chimed in Aleck, and we
+insinuated ourselves into what we thought a convenient position under
+his elbows. Whereupon, suddenly bringing his weight down upon us, and
+contriving a dexterous movement towards the bank, my father landed us
+both on our backs amidst the grass and the ferns, and was off at such a
+pace that we were some time in catching him up again, out of breath as
+we were with the fall, and the laughing, and the running up the hill.
+
+"Isn't papa great fun?" I asked my cousin, as we were in pursuit.
+
+"Glorious!" was his only response; but I thought it quite sufficient.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+THE SCHOONER-YACHT.
+
+
+There are some unfortunate children who seem fated to have their
+holidays and special occasions drowned in rain. I, on the contrary,
+belonged to the favoured class, accustomed always to expect, and almost
+always to enjoy, sunshine bright and glorious, whensoever birth-days,
+high days, and whole holidays made me specially prize and value it.
+
+So it was by no means with surprise that I opened my eyes the next
+morning to find the sun's golden rays streaming in at my window, and to
+observe, on jumping up and looking out, that there was not a cloud to be
+seen, save, indeed, the shadowy gray morning mist that was fast
+dispersing over the sea. I pattered hastily into Aleck's room before
+proceeding to the business of the toilet, to awaken him, and to urge
+upon him the desirability of getting up as soon as possible, and coming
+down with me into the garden to gather a nosegay for my mother, an
+institution of three years' standing, and which I would not upon any
+account have dispensed with. Aleck murmured such a very sleepy assent to
+my views, that I was constrained to resort to extreme measures, lest he
+should "go off" again, and accordingly took to the gentle persuasion of
+water sprinkled on his face, the counterpane delicately withdrawn from
+his bed, and similar little attentions, which I felt to have been
+completely successful, when a pillow, wielded with the vigour of
+self-defence, gave notice that hostilities were about to be returned,
+and I withdrew to my own room.
+
+It was not long before we were both out in the garden busily engaged in
+a careful inspection of the flower-beds, preparatory to the
+flower-gathering. Any flowers I liked, I might gather on this particular
+morning, but as the nosegay must not be too large, choice was difficult.
+Aleck made plenty of fun, but in reality gave little help.
+
+"What's the use of my advising you," he said, not without reason; "you
+never take my advice when you get it?" And, in truth, I had uniformly
+taken the opposite line to the one he suggested, choosing a scarlet
+geranium where he offered a light-coloured verbena, and a rose when he
+had suggested mignonnette.
+
+"You see," I explained, "mamma won't care for it unless I arrange it all
+myself. Then Nurse has a lace paper ready which I shall put round it to
+make it look better. If you like you can hold the flowers," I added,
+kindly.
+
+But this did not meet my cousin's views.
+
+"I think I'll make a nosegay for uncle," he said, presently; "I suppose
+I may--eh, Willie?"
+
+I felt sure there could be no objection, and signified my opinion from
+the very centre of a geranium bed, in which I was making active
+researches, that would have turned the gardener's hair gray with
+consternation had he not been safely off the premises at the time,
+comfortably engaged in discussing his breakfast. And Aleck set to work,
+and soon gathered a nosegay that almost, if not quite, equalled my own.
+
+Which of our young readers who knows the delight of being let loose on
+some fine morning in a garden, with full permission to pluck flowers at
+their own sweet will, knows when to stop? We certainly did not, and
+should have produced bouquets, at all events, quite unrivalled for size,
+had it not been for the sounding of the first gong, and the appearance
+on the lawn of Nurse herself, still so called, although I was no longer
+her subject, in virtue of her unlimited right of jurisdiction over our
+clothes.
+
+"A fine sight you're making of yourselves, young gentlemen," she said,
+beginning with general statements, and then descending into details. "I
+should like to know what you call that style of hair-dressing which
+means that every hair stands straight out in any direction but the right
+one, and no two of them the same. And, Master Willie, if you think you
+can go down into the dining-room with your tunic in its present
+condition, not to mention your boots, or Master Gordon's jacket, you're
+greatly mistaken. And then to look at your collars! No wonder that the
+bills are as they are, with respect to French polish and blue for clear
+starching; I know that boys, be they young gentlemen or others, cannot
+be expected to act like creatures endowed with reason, but still it
+passes me to understand their ways with respect to clothes well fitted
+too, and made in the most approved fashion."
+
+"I think _we_ should be black and blue if nurse were not really very
+good-natured, though she talks like that," I whispered to Aleck; feeling
+too much the cause she had for strictures upon my personal appearance at
+the time, to take that opportunity of defending the general character of
+boyhood. So we surrendered at discretion, and went up-stairs to make
+ourselves tidy, receiving before the second gong visits of inspection
+from nurse, who had in the meantime tied up our nosegays for us, and
+placed the lace paper round the one I had gathered for my mother.
+
+Very important I felt myself as I went down-stairs, for two little
+packets, folded in white paper, had been entrusted to my care by my
+parents respectively, containing, as I well knew, their presents for
+each other, which were to be delivered by me before breakfast.
+
+Directly after prayers the presentation took place. First, the little
+parcel addressed to my mother, with the message, which I delivered
+demurely enough, that a gentleman who would not give his name, had left
+it for Mrs. Grant yesterday, and--but here I broke down, and my appeal,
+"Oh, papa, I've forgotten what more it was I was to say," produced a
+peal of laughter, and put an end to our little pretence of mystery.
+
+"Your packet is much the smallest, papa," I said; and watched to see
+what would come out of the white paper. My father's face lit up with
+pleasure as he opened a small case and discovered a beautifully executed
+miniature of my mother.
+
+"Willie," he said, "I think the lady who left this for me yesterday must
+have been very like mamma."
+
+"Yes, papa, she was _very_ like indeed," I answered; and then we
+proceeded to inspect the contents of my mother's parcel, and admired, as
+much as it is in boys to admire jewelry, a beautiful bracelet, with
+which she seemed quite as much pleased as my father was with his
+present, and which had attached to it a locket in the form of a heart,
+containing, as we presently discovered, my hair twined with his.
+
+Then Aleck and I had to present our nosegays, which were, of course,
+greatly praised.
+
+"An unusual honour for me!" said my father merrily, when he received
+his. "Willie generally cuts me off with a sprig for my button-hole."
+
+"Aleck gathered it for you quite out of his own head, papa."
+
+"Indeed!" said my father; "that is really the most wonderful thing I
+ever heard! Gathered the nosegay out of his own head! Well, I have been
+told of flowers growing in many strange places before, but never in so
+strange a place as a person's head. Aleck, my dear boy, you will be the
+wonder of the age, so prepare to be made a show of! a flower-garden in
+your head! We must let the gardener know! We ought to place you under
+his cultivation instead of Mr. Glengelly's!"
+
+What a merry breakfast-table we had that morning. My father declared
+that he felt just like a boy, so happy in having his holiday; and Aleck
+and I thought him more amusing and pleasant than any boy, no one ever
+seemed to make us laugh as he did.
+
+"Of course, however," he suggested, "as it is going to be a whole
+holiday, and no work, there need be no eating either."
+
+But that was by no means our view of the matter; we declared ourselves
+more hungry than usual, and made such inroads on the honey that my
+father asked at last whether he had not better send out for the hive.
+
+After breakfast we had our Bible reading with my mother; that was a
+treat and not a lesson--we never missed it even on whole holidays--and
+then my father joined us and took part in consulting over the plans for
+the day.
+
+"We shall dispose of these young gentlemen at once," he said, "for I
+find Groves is expecting them at the Cove, so soon as they can go; and
+they may have the whole morning to employ as they like, in the boats, or
+on the rocks--anything short of being in the water, which I do _not_
+recommend. And for ourselves, Rickson is going to bring round the pony
+carriage at twelve, when Mrs. Grant will be driven out by her humble
+servant, the coachman, supposing always that she sees no just cause or
+impediment." And my father playfully touched his forehead, as if waiting
+for orders.
+
+It was clear to read in my mother's eyes that she saw no difficulty in
+the way of the drive with my father; and we boys were not less ready to
+avail ourselves of the permission to go out at once and for the whole
+morning.
+
+We flew off to the play-room, loaded our pockets with a miscellaneous
+store of nails, string, and implements of one kind or another, such as
+we were wont to use in our various undertakings, and, carrying the
+melancholy hulk which Aleck had not had time to pull to pieces, we set
+off at express speed to the Cove, with Frisk barking at our heels.
+
+There was not much talking during the first part of the scramble, but
+Aleck contrived to get the contents of one of his pockets scattered by a
+hasty jump, and we had to stop and pick up the things, which was the
+signal for our chatter to begin as usual.
+
+"I wonder what surprise old George has for us?" I observed
+confidentially to my cousin.
+
+"Whatever it is, I think he must have been a long time at it," replied
+Aleck; "he's been shut up in the work-shop so often of late."
+
+"Yes," I said; "and since that one peep I told you of, I've never had a
+chance of looking in."
+
+"Perhaps more ships," my cousin suggested, his thoughts running in that
+line.
+
+"Ever since I can remember he's always made me something," I said; "once
+it was a pop-gun, and the next time it was a cart, and then, last time,
+the 'Fair Alice.'"
+
+Aleck listened quietly to the catalogue of my presents, only remarking
+that, if they got better each time, he wondered what they'd come to be
+at last; thus suggesting such a pleasant subject for speculation that I
+did not immediately find any occasion for further talk, but ruminated as
+we pursued our way for a few moments in silence.
+
+"It must be very nice," my cousin resumed presently, "having another day
+for presents besides Christmas-days and birth-days. I wonder where papa
+and mamma will be my next birth-day."
+
+"Whatever it is that George has made for me," I said, "you shall play
+with it too, Aleck. I like you to play with my things."
+
+"You're very good about the 'Fair Alice,' I'm sure," answered my cousin.
+"I wish I had anything to lend you that would give you half as much
+pleasure. I'm afraid this--referring to the boat he was carrying--will
+not come to much, in spite of George's promises."
+
+It certainly did not look encouraging, but by this time we were gaining
+the shingle, the fresh sea-breeze blowing in our faces seemed to quicken
+our steps, and the rest of our way was a race between us and Frisk until
+we reached the lodge.
+
+We found old George on the watch for us, his kind cheery face all in a
+pleasant glow of welcome. He was ready to start directly for the Cove,
+he told us, when the first salutations were over. But I did not feel
+quite so eager, as might have been expected, having a private desire to
+explore the work-shop, of which I perceived the door to be open.
+
+"May I go in now?" I asked, moving towards it.
+
+"Ay, ay, sir," answered my old friend with a merry twinkle in his eye,
+which developed into a broad smile by the time we returned from our
+fruitless inspection of bare benches and tools; and he took to
+singing,--
+
+    "When she came there, the cupboard was bare."
+
+"That Master Willie is a quotation from a celebrated poet. I reckon
+you're ready enough now to come on to the Cove."
+
+We sallied forth accordingly, I convinced that there was some secret in
+store for me still; Aleck full of thoughts about his ship, which he was
+exhibiting to George as he went along, narrating its many
+mis-adventures, and incorrigible tendency to sail bottom upwards, and
+gaining from the old man nothing but a series of chuckles, together with
+assurances which seemed to afford to George himself infinite amusement,
+that "Master Gordon's boat should sail in the Cove as trim and tight as
+the 'Fair Alice' herself."
+
+It was a glorious morning. The sunshine was dancing and sparkling upon
+the water with a thousand gleaming flashes; the little waves came
+lapping playfully upon the sand and shingle to our feet, and made sweet
+music in the recesses of the rocks. We used to call these warm September
+days our Indian summer, and were wont to fancy that they were never so
+bright and beautiful anywhere as at Braycombe.
+
+Groves took a quick comprehensive look towards the offing, and round
+again towards the rocks, and finally off towards the west, and then, as
+if satisfied with the result of his observations, said to us: "It would
+be a beautiful day for the White-Rock Cove, young gentlemen; the wind's
+shifted a bit since early morning, and Ralph will be round in half an
+hour to give us a hand with the oars; if Mrs. Grant wouldn't mind your
+being a bit late for luncheon, as you're to dine in the evening, we
+could do it nicely."
+
+Now if anything had been wanted to add to the zest of our enjoyment,
+this suggestion of Groves's was just the thing. No expedition in the
+whole range of possibilities gave us so much pleasure as this one.
+First, it could only be accomplished in certain states of wind and tide;
+secondly, it occupied a longer time than could be usually available
+except on very propitious half holidays; and, finally, its attractions
+were of the most varied character. For what caverns were there in the
+whole neighbourhood that could compete with those at the White-Rock
+Cove?--with their deep clear pools, in which the pink seaweed and
+gorgeous anemones seemed to find a more congenial home than in any other
+place; with mysterious dark recesses and wonderful natural arches, and
+miniature gulf streams, that offered irresistible attractions to the
+spirit of enterprise, in the way of crossings on slippery
+stepping-stones; and with a soft white beach, spread out at the foot of
+the rocks, abounding with such a wonderful variety of shells, that our
+researches rarely ended without the discovery of some fresh specimen for
+our collections. Nor must we omit to mention the only white rock of any
+size which was to be found in our red sandstone district, which gave its
+name to the Cove, and as to which there were numerous traditions current
+in the neighbourhood.
+
+To the near side of the Cove there was, indeed, a short way through the
+woods, but unless we had a boat we could not reach the caverns, or find
+our way to the most attractive spots for shell gathering.
+
+Groves's suggestion was met, as might be expected, with rapturous
+applause, and by the time that we reached our own Cove, it was decided
+that one of us boys should go up to the house to obtain the necessary
+permission, whilst, in the meantime, the boat should be got ready for
+the sail.
+
+The door of our boat-house was lying open as we came up, and something
+of unusual appearance was dimly visible inside.
+
+"The secret!" I exclaimed, running eagerly forward and drawing to light
+a beautiful large kite with a wondrous flying eagle depicted on it, and
+a tail of marvellous length, together with an apparently inexhaustible
+length of string. "Oh, George, this is what you've been making--how
+beautiful it is!"
+
+"But maybe you don't guess for whom it's intended, sir; I don't deny the
+making of it," said the old man.
+
+"I think I do though," I answered, looking up at his kind, cheery face;
+"I think you've made it for me, George."
+
+"Well, you're about right there, sir, and it's been a real pleasure to
+me the making of it, being, as it were, somewhat of a sailor's craft, it
+having to be driven of the wind, even though it might be said to be more
+for land than water."
+
+I heard Aleck say that it belonged rather to the air than to earth or
+water in his opinion. Then we took to a close inspection of the eagle,
+which we both agreed to be splendid, and became eager for an immediate
+trial of its flying powers.
+
+But here, to our surprise, old George did not at once agree. He wanted
+to see, he told us, whether he could not make Master Gordon's boat sail
+as well as mine. We could have a sailing match, and try which would go
+the best, if only we would get out the "Fair Alice;" and so saying he
+led the way to my own little boat-house, whilst we followed in
+speechless wonder at the absurdity of the proposition.
+
+"As if he could set my boat to rights in a few minutes!" said Aleck to
+me incredulously.
+
+"Here, Master Gordon," continued George, making pretended difficulties
+at the lock; "you had better open the door yourself, sir."
+
+Aleck stooped down to do so. "Why, George!" he exclaimed, "it's as easy
+as possible; what _did_ you make such a fuss about? But--oh--what a
+beauty! Willie--Willie--look!" and so saying, he drew forth a
+beautifully made little vessel, about the same size as my "Fair Alice,"
+but even, as I thought, more perfectly finished, and with two masts.
+
+"A schooner-yacht," my cousin continued, triumphantly. "Oh, Willie, I
+like it a great deal better than even the 'Fair Alice.' Is it yours,
+George?" he inquired.
+
+"No, sir," answered Groves, quickly; "guess again."
+
+"I don't know any one else, unless it's Willie."
+
+"Near it, but not right; try again, sir; somebody else that's not very
+far off."
+
+My cousin coloured with a wild flush of delight; but though he stooped
+down to finger the new yacht in a sort of tender way, as if he loved it,
+he hesitated to make another guess, and I broke in impatiently,--
+
+"Aleck, why are you so nonsensical as to pretend you don't see it's for
+you?"
+
+"That's it indeed, Master Gordon; you'll understand what I meant about
+the sailing match now;" and the old sailor's face lit up afresh with
+kind enjoyment, as he marked the absorbing pleasure which his present
+was giving.
+
+Another moment, and Aleck was almost hugging the old man: "Oh, how very,
+very, very kind of you to make it for me; I like it better a great deal
+than anything I have ever seen, better than the 'Fair Alice' even, and I
+did think that nicer than anything else. May I have it out on the water
+to-day; and couldn't we sail them both together as you said."
+
+There was no time for answering him, as he ran on immediately into a
+minute individual examination of all the details of the little vessel,
+calling for attention and admiration in every case: "Look at the
+bowsprit, and then the rudder; see how delicately it moves; the royal is
+beautiful, and there are three flags; do look, Willie, mine will be the
+admiral's vessel, and I can signal to you."
+
+I looked, but said very little, though Aleck was too much absorbed with
+his own enjoyment to notice this, and kept appealing to me for
+sympathetic interest during the whole operation of unreefing the sails
+and launching the yacht for a trial sail in the Cove.
+
+Nothing certainly could look more graceful and pretty than did the
+little vessel, as it bent to the breeze, and steadily kept its course
+out towards the mouth of the Cove. Aleck clapped his hands exultingly,
+and ran forward to slip the rope across, as the tide was already pretty
+high, and still rising. Then slowly brought the treasure back again, and
+surveyed it at his leisure in one of the little creeks, where the
+shelter of the rocks prevented it from speeding off again on its
+journey. Frisk, too, took a great interest in the new acquisition,
+seeming to recognize in it an addition to his circle of friends. And
+George rubbed his hands, and chuckled with satisfaction, as he repeated
+again that Master Gordon's boat should sail on the Cove as tight and
+trim as the "Fair Alice" herself.
+
+And I--yes, I must confess it, found the old miserable feelings were all
+back again, and vainly tried to shake off the dead weight which had
+settled upon me from the moment that I had clearly understood that
+Aleck, and not I, was to possess the new vessel.
+
+Perhaps George detected something of what was passing in my mind, for,
+when the question arose which of us boys should go up to the house to
+ask permission for the expedition to the White-Rock Cove, he decided at
+once that it should be Aleck, saying that he and I would have time for
+trying the kite meanwhile; and, looking back at it now, I fancy I can
+understand his wanting to take off my thoughts from Aleck's present, and
+make me think about my own.
+
+So Aleck started off by the Zig-zag, and George and I would have set to
+flying the kite immediately, had not he discovered that one of the sails
+of our own boat had been taken up to the lodge, and that he must go and
+look for it first.
+
+"I'll be back in less than a quarter of an hour, sir," he said, however,
+as he left; "and you can have the kite and be on the meadow ready."
+
+I had taken up the kite in my hand, but I threw it aside again the
+moment George turned his back upon me, and sitting down upon the stones
+near the water's edge, with Frisk's fore-paws stretched across my lap,
+looked gloomily at the water and at Aleck's new boat. Evil feelings grew
+stronger and stronger within me as I looked. Though fascinated so that I
+could not take my eyes off it, I hated the very sight of the pretty
+little schooner, and wished heartily that George had never made it. And
+I thought about Aleck, how happy he was this morning, and how miserable
+I was; and I thought it unfair of him to be happier in my own home than
+I was; and then I wondered why George should care for him so much as to
+take all that trouble for him, forgetting how I had begged old George to
+love my cousin who was to be like my brother, and forgetting, too, that
+Aleck's pleasant ways had won upon the old man during the past few
+months, so that he had gained quite an established place in his
+affections.
+
+These and countless other, but similar thoughts, chased each other
+through my head in a far shorter time than they take to relate, whilst
+dreamily I kept watching the little vessel, and mechanically taking note
+of its different points. The sails at first were flapping listlessly,
+the rocks, as I mentioned before, affording shelter from the breeze. But
+presently the breeze shifted a little, and this change, together with
+that produced by the tide, now just at its full height, moved the
+schooner somewhat further from the rocks; then gradually the sails
+filled once again, and after stopping a minute at one point, and a
+minute at another, as, drifted by the motion of the waves, it finally
+escaped from the little creek and stood steadily out into the open
+channel of the Cove. I sprung to my feet and followed in pursuit,
+running or jumping from rock to rock towards the mouth of the Cove. But
+the little vessel got under the lee of a projecting rock, and was
+stopped in its course for a while, so I sat down once more, not caring
+to find my way round to the other side and release it, according to my
+usual fashion, but finding a moody satisfaction in staring straight
+before me, and paying no attention to Frisk, who was flourishing about
+with barks, and waggings of his tail and prickings of his ears, as if
+he thought he ought to be sent in pursuit of the new boat, and
+considered me deficient in public spirit for not stirring in the matter.
+Then, as I steadily refused to notice him, he took to playing with the
+end of the rope on which the rings were fastened, which slipped on to
+the iron stake, as before-mentioned, and constituted our "harbour-bar;"
+seeming as pleased as a kitten with a ball of worsted, when he found
+that he could push the ring up and move it with his paws. In fact, the
+stake was so very short, and the ring so light, that I could see five
+minutes more of such play, and probably the rope would be unfastened,
+and the channel clear to the open sea.
+
+Another moment and I noticed that the little vessel was clearing out
+from its shelter under the rock, the wind coming down into the Cove in
+gusts and draughts, so that it seemed to blow every way in succession,
+and was now standing straight towards the mouth of the harbour.
+
+There was a quick, sharp conflict between the strong whisper of
+temptation and the protesting voice of conscience, when I marked the
+position of the boat, and saw also, that in another moment Frisk's
+antics would have unfastened the barrier between it and the wide waters
+beyond. A quick, sharp conflict, and I came off defeated.
+
+Hastily turning my back upon the harbour-bar, I ran to the head of the
+Cove without disturbing Frisk, who was so taken up with his newly found
+amusement, that he did not miss me; took up the kite and sped off to the
+meadow, which lay between the Cove and the lodge, where I was joined by
+the dog, two or three minutes after, panting and breathless at my having
+stolen a march upon him.
+
+George, too, came a minute later from the other side into the meadow,
+which, although out of sight of the Cove, owing to the rise of the
+ground, was as good a place to wait in as any, since Aleck would have to
+pass through it on his way from the house.
+
+Ralph appeared also, and through our united efforts, and to our united
+satisfaction, my new kite was soon soaring higher than any kite ever
+seen before by any member of our little party; great was my excitement
+in holding the string and letting it out, or taking it in as I ran from
+one part to another, Frisk the while dashing about wildly, and barking
+as though at some strange bird of which he entertained suspicions.
+
+Old George looked as pleased as if he had been a boy of six, rather than
+a man of sixty, and Ralph rushed recklessly here and there and
+everywhere, with his head thrown back and his eyes rivetted upon the
+soaring kite, until, like Genius in the fable, he was suddenly prostrate
+through stumbling over an unnoticed stump.
+
+"See what comes of not looking where you're going," moralized George, as
+he picked him up and gave him a general shaking by way of seeing that
+nothing had come loose in his tumble; a sentiment from which it is
+possible the youngster might have derived more profit, had not his
+elderly relative experienced a similar mishap almost immediately
+afterwards.
+
+I was the only heavy-hearted one of the trio; and even I forgot my cares
+and anxieties in the glorious excitement of holding in the kite, which
+tugged and tugged at the string as if it would carry me up to the
+skies, rather than give in.
+
+"I wonder what's kept Master Aleck such a time?" said old George, after
+we had spent nearly three-quarters of an hour kite-flying.
+
+The load at my heart came back again in a moment as I answered
+hurriedly, that I did not mind Aleck's being detained, for the pleasure
+of flying the kite was as good as anything. And George, who inferred
+that the cloud he had noticed before over me had passed away, rejoiced
+accordingly.
+
+It was more than an hour from the time of his leaving, when Aleck
+reappeared, holding one side of a small hamper, whilst one of the
+men-servants held the other.
+
+"Lots of good things for luncheon," he said, by way of explanation, as
+they deposited their burden on the grass. And then he proceeded to
+unfold how some one had been calling on his uncle and aunt, and he could
+not speak to them at first; and then how his uncle had told him the
+drive would have to be later, and more distant than they had intended;
+and, finally, that the game of cricket being given up, we might have
+our luncheon and picnic at the White-Rock Cove, returning any
+reasonable time in the afternoon.
+
+"Won't it be splendid?" Aleck continued, gleefully, whilst I drew in
+line, and my kite slowly descended; "we shall have time for the sailing
+match, and madrepore hunt, and the caverns--everything!"
+
+I assented with as much of pleasure in my tone as was at command,
+thinking after all how very pleasant it would be if--there came the
+_if_--and I scarcely dared admit to myself, how sorry I began to feel at
+the thought that my man[oe]uvre had probably succeeded, or how sorely
+the disappointment to George and my cousin would mar our happiness! If
+only I could know that what I had wished to happen an hour ago had not
+happened, then how wonderfully light my heart would feel. A sickening
+feeling of anxiety, such as I had not dreamt of in my little happy life
+before, came over me, and nervously I hurried on the winding up of my
+string.
+
+"What a noble kite it is," said my cousin, "I wish I could go up upon
+one!"
+
+"'If wishes were horses'--you know the old saying, Master Gordon,"
+responded Groves. "I think you'd be sorry enough after getting up five
+hundred feet into the air, to feel that a puff of wind might tumble you
+over, and make the coming down a trifle quicker, and less agreeable,
+than the going up."
+
+"It was the going up, and not the coming down that I meant," rejoined
+Aleck, "though I have heard papa say that coming down from a great
+height does not hurt."
+
+"Ugh!" I ejaculated, "you wouldn't have me believe that. Just a little
+while before you came to us I had a bad fall off the table. I can tell
+you it hurt!"
+
+"I've fallen, too, off a tree," answered my cousin, not to be outdone,
+for boys are wont to brag of their honourable scars, "and it hurt a
+great deal, but I mean falling from higher still. One of the sailors I
+talked to on board ship had fallen from a mast, and he told me that he
+went over and over; the first time he went over seemed quite a long
+time, and between that and the second time he seemed to remember almost
+everything he had ever cared about much in all his life, but after the
+second going over he never knew anything until he found himself lying in
+the cabin, and the doctor setting his arm, which had been broken in the
+fall, though he never felt it."
+
+"I'll be bound he felt it enough when the doctor got to work upon him,"
+remarked George.
+
+"Yes; but he didn't feel it when it broke," returned Aleck, who wished
+to establish his point.
+
+By this time the stately kite was lying on the grass. I lifted it up,
+and we started in procession for the Cove, Aleck acting train-bearer to
+the long tail, and winding it up as he went along; and Groves and Ralph
+carrying the hamper.
+
+Another moment, and we were in sight of the Cove. My heart was beating
+violently, and I felt the crimson flush mount suddenly to my face, and
+then leave it again; but no one else noticed it, and as yet I could not
+see to the harbour-bar, so as to know whether the ship were safe or not.
+The little creek in which it had been left was, however, full in view,
+and Aleck instantly observed that his new treasure was not there.
+
+But there was an entire absence of uneasiness in his tone, as he quietly
+remarked,--
+
+"I suppose you put it into the boat-house lest it should be blown about
+whilst we were away;" and without waiting for an answer he placed the
+rolled-up tail of the kite in my hand, and ran forwards to look into the
+boat-house for it.
+
+It was in vain, however, that he searched first my miniature boat-house,
+and then every nook and corner of the real one.
+
+"It's not there," he said. "I thought you must have put it away."
+
+"I never said so," I answered; and then a bright thought coming to me,
+as to what would be an impregnable position to take up in all future
+inquiry, I boldly added, "I never touched it after you went away."
+
+"Where can it be, then?" said Aleck; and yet, though it was clearly a
+hopeless task, we once again looked carefully for the missing treasure
+in both boat-houses. There was the "Fair Alice," my own beautiful little
+vessel, that had seemed the most perfect thing of its kind, until the
+arrival of the new one; but the other was nowhere to be found.
+
+"Tell you what, Master Gordon," said old George, "the wind's been
+uncommon shifting and fanciful this morning, and we left her with sails
+set; depend upon it, sir, that she's been drifting out with the tide a
+bit, and the wind so off shore, as it is now, she'd be up towards the
+mouth of the Cove. We ought to have thought of the wind and the change
+of the tide; it will be well if she's not out to sea."
+
+"Oh, no fear of that!" exclaimed Aleck, joyfully, "because I myself put
+the harbour-bar across this morning when I sailed her first;" and so
+saying, he bounded off along the rocks towards the mouth of the Cove,
+the rest of us following almost as fast.
+
+One hasty glance and I knew that what I had expected had taken place;
+the ring which tightened the rope across, so as to constitute a barrier,
+was now under water--the rope, it must be understood, being arranged to
+lie along the bottom when not specially adjusted--the channel out to sea
+was perfectly unimpeded, and there was no trace of the little vessel
+which, an hour and a half before, had been sailing so merrily upon the
+water.
+
+"O George!" exclaimed Aleck, "see the rope is down; it must have gone
+out to sea; it _can't_ be gone!"
+
+But Aleck's face of sad conviction belied his words.
+
+"It can't be gone!" he repeated; and yet the tears of disappointment
+were forcing themselves into his eyes, though he battled up bravely
+against his trouble, and tried to believe still that there was some
+mistake.
+
+Then we betook ourselves to searching in every nook and corner of the
+Cove, exploring impossible places amongst the rocks, and once again
+returning to look through the boat-house; I, hypocritically, as active
+as others, lest there should be any suspicion raised.
+
+"Master Willie," said Groves at last, as if a bright thought had struck
+him, "I know what it must be, sir. You're up to a prank sometimes--in
+fact, rather often--and you've hidden away the yacht, for there's been
+no one else in the Cove but you; though where you can have put it I'm
+puzzled to say, seeing there's not a place fit to hide a walnut-shell I
+haven't looked in, not to say a schooner yacht drawing half a foot of
+water."
+
+All faces looked relieved by the idea--the three other faces I mean. But
+as its tendency was to fasten a certain measure of responsibility upon
+myself, I thought it better to become indignant.
+
+"I don't know why you say I must have done it," I answered hastily. "I
+never touched the boat; what should I touch it for, it wasn't mine; you
+didn't make it for me. I told Aleck I hadn't touched it."
+
+"Master Willie, Master Willie," expostulated Groves, "don't be angry; I
+only thought you might have been up to a bit of fun, and I was
+mistaken."
+
+"Then, George--O George!" exclaimed my cousin, grasping him by the arm,
+"she _must_ have gone out to sea;" and he tried hard to gulp down his
+feelings; "you know the harbour-bar is down."
+
+"And I should like to know how it came to be down," said George,
+severely. A new idea evidently passed all in a moment through my
+cousin's mind. With a fiery flashing in his eyes that I had never seen
+in him before, he turned suddenly upon me.
+
+"You naughty, wicked boy," he said.
+
+"You didn't touch the boat you say; but you didn't like my having it;
+you didn't like its being mine, because it was better than yours, and
+had two masts; and so you let down the bar, and--and she's got out to
+sea and is lost!" And so saying he burst into a passionate fit of tears.
+
+It is difficult to say which of us was the most surprised by this
+unlooked-for accusation of Aleck's. I had never seen my cousin in such a
+temper before, but was far too conscious of the wrong part I had acted
+to be able at once to answer with a protest of innocence. So that in the
+very short space of time which was occupied by George telling Aleck the
+case was not hopeless, and the vessel might be found yet, and that he'd
+be sorry for the wrong words he had said to me, a rapid controversy
+passed silently between me and my conscience somewhat in this wise:--
+
+_Conscience._--"You know that what he said is true about your not liking
+his having the schooner, and you know you wanted it to get lost."
+_Answer._--"But I can say with perfect truth that I did not touch it _or
+the rope_."
+
+_Conscience._--"You know if you had called off Frisk the schooner would
+not have been lost." _Answer._--"But I never _saw_ Frisk unloose the
+ring; and I can say, with truth, that until just now I did not _know_
+that it was not safe."
+
+_Conscience._--"That will be a lie all the same. You have often been
+told that what makes a lie is the intention to deceive, and not the
+words only." _Answer._--"What's the use of telling now that I really am
+very sorry it has happened. It's not any good confessing to Aleck that I
+might have prevented it. After all, it was Frisk who did it, and I did
+not even see Frisk do it. And Aleck's in such a towering passion; I
+could never face him and have him know the whole."
+
+_Conscience_, more feebly.--"That's bad reasoning; you ought simply to
+find out what is right, and do it." _Answer._--"And now that I come to
+think of it, it's a great shame that Aleck should fly out so at me, and
+I won't stand it." And at this point the voice of conscience became
+perfectly silenced, and, turning defiantly to my cousin, I exclaimed,--
+
+"I don't know what you mean, Aleck, by accusing me of it; I never
+touched the rope, and I never touched the boat; I'm quite certain that I
+did not, and it's a lie of yours to say that I did."
+
+"O Master Willie, Master Aleck," gasped old George, in consternation.
+"Young gentlemen, these words are not fit to come from such as you; what
+would your parents say?"
+
+But our brows lowered angrily, and we made no response; whilst George
+continued, abandoning in his dismay the usual form of address, and
+speaking as from age to youth, "My boys, children, have you not been
+taught of Him 'who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He
+suffered, He threatened not.' Christian boys should try to be like their
+Master, and such words as passed between you should never be heard
+amongst them. You've forgotten yourselves, young gentlemen, and you'll
+be very sorry soon for what you have said to each other. Master Aleck,
+you're wrong, sir, to say that Master Willie did it when he denies it.
+I've known Master Willie since he was born, and he speaks the truth.
+He's told me with the greatest of honestness when he's done things
+which was wrong, and no one else knowed of; as, for instance, when he
+ate the cherries and swallowed the stones, and when he got the cat's
+tail all over pitch--I can remember a score of things he's told me of,
+quite frank and open, and I'm sure he's spoken the truth now."
+
+I felt somewhat self-condemned whilst George thus enumerated the
+instances of my candour in simple unconsciousness of the fact that
+confessions of scrapes were generally received by him with such
+indulgence that it required the smallest possible amount of moral
+courage to make them.
+
+"Shake hands, young gentlemen," he added, after another pause, "and be
+friends, and let us all do what we can to find the schooner--she's cost
+me many an hour's work."
+
+And at this moment, for the first time, it flashed upon me painfully how
+great the disappointment was to George as well as to Aleck, and I was
+sorry, more sorry than I had hitherto felt.
+
+The pair of small chubby hands that met in the old sailor's rugged palm
+were unused to so ceremonious a meeting, and their owners were somewhat
+solemnized at being treated like grown-up gentlemen. But a fierce look
+of suspicion still lingered in Aleck's face, and I doubt not a glow of
+anger and excitement in mine, which showed that Groves's peacemaking had
+not been thoroughly effectual--we _felt_ still as we had _spoken_
+before.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+THE MISSING SHIP.
+
+
+In the meantime Ralph had been busy getting all the things ready for our
+sail; so we took our places in the boat, and stood out to sea. The wind
+being steadily off shore, our progress was rapid; we bounded lightly
+over the water, and had soon placed some distance between us and the
+Cove.
+
+George sat at the helm, keeping a keen look out in every direction;
+whilst Aleck, Ralph, and I, strained our eyes in fruitless efforts to
+discover the tiny white sail we were longing to see.
+
+The glorious sunshine dancing and sparkling on the water seemed to mock
+the gloomy heavy-heartedness that was darkening the hours of our long
+anticipated holiday. Aleck and I were almost entirely silent. When we
+spoke, it was to Ralph, or George, as convenient third parties; not a
+word would we say to each other.
+
+Old George did his best, with clumsy kindness, to make lively remarks
+from time to time; but the responsive laugh was wanting; and, after
+experiencing two or three signal failures, he struck his colours and
+yielded to the spell that had fallen upon us.
+
+The whole Braycombe coast for many miles is deeply indented with creeks
+and coves, and diversified with outstanding rocks and promontories,
+about the most picturesque and the most dangerous part of our southern
+shores. Old George decided that probably the object of our search had
+been driven in by the fitful wind amongst some of the near rocks and
+creeks, and might, perhaps, be recovered by a careful search. So, warily
+steered by our experienced sailor, we set ourselves to the work, having
+scanned, to the best of our ability, the open sea beyond with a pocket
+telescope.
+
+What with the tackings frequently necessary, and the taking down sail in
+one place, and then putting it up in another, the time passed on
+rapidly; and we were quite surprised, as we finished the exploration of
+one of the little inlets, to hear Groves remark that it was "nigh upon
+two o'clock, and that we'd all be the better of a little food." For the
+first time in our lives we had forgotten to be hungry.
+
+It was decided that we should spread the luncheon on a broad flat stone,
+near which our boat was now curtseying listlessly on the water, and take
+our repast ashore. George and Ralph lifted out the hamper, and spread
+the cloth, and arranged the various good things we found inside.
+
+"And don't let us forget," said old George, reverently, lifting his hat,
+"the thanks we owe to our Father, which art in heaven, for His bounties
+provided for us."
+
+The train of thought thus started seemed to go on in his mind, after we
+had set to the serious business of luncheon. "You see, young gentlemen,"
+he presently continued, "we're to remember that all the good things He
+sends us come from the same hand that sends us our disappointments too;
+and though we don't always see it, it's true that the troubles and
+trials are amongst the _good_ things. Many a time I've kept a-thinking
+of that verse which says, 'He that spared not His only-begotten Son, but
+delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not, with Him, also freely
+give us all things'--the _all things_ there meaning, you see, the
+troubles and losses as much as the gains, and successes, and pleasures.
+And I think it's the same with children as with grown people; _their_
+trials, which are small to grown-up people, are great to _them_, and
+they don't come by chance. And, when we are able to feel this way, young
+gentlemen, it's easier to bear up when the wind seems dead against you,
+and to say, when things go wrong, and there's a deal of beating about,
+and a shipping of heavy seas, as you're taught to say in the Lord's
+prayer, 'Thy will be done.'"
+
+I forget what was said after George finished this homely, but practical
+and excellent children's sermon; but I can remember that Aleck's face
+looked somewhat lighter; the words seemed to have touched some inner
+chord, and to have met _his_ troubles more than they did _mine_. _My_
+load, on the contrary, lay all the more heavily on my conscience; as I
+realized that I was entirely shut out from such consolations as George
+tried to offer, so that I became _more_ rather than _less_ gloomy.
+
+The old man resumed the thread of conversation soon again.
+
+"It seems strange now," he said, "to think how we're grieving over this
+bit of a toy ship, and then to think of how one's felt seeing, as I did
+once, a good ship with her crew, men and boys, clinging to the rigging,
+and going down before your eyes, and you not able to help them, though
+they kept a-screeching out and a-calling to you all the while."
+
+"Couldn't you do anything?" we both exclaimed, our interest now fully
+awakened; "did you try to help them?"
+
+"Oh yes, sir," George answered, and I could see the tears standing in
+his eyes; "God be praised, we didn't see 'em go down without doing what
+we could for them; and I'm glad to think of it, though my life didn't
+seem worth the having for many a long day afterward."
+
+"Oh, why?" asked Aleck, eagerly; and I, in spite of our being upon terms
+of not speaking, caught myself whispering to him, "Don't you
+know?--Ralph's father was drowned."
+
+But George went on, with his eyes fixed on the water, as if the great
+sea which had swallowed up his dead were a book, and he were reading
+from it.
+
+"His father"--and with a turn of the head he indicated Ralph--"was with
+me; he was but four-and-twenty, and as handsome as handsome; a young
+fellow such as there was not many to be seen like him; and he was a good
+son--a good son to his mother and to me--and a child of God, too, Heaven
+be praised! 'Father,' says he, 'we must try to save them;' and, with the
+sound of those poor creatures' cries ringing in my ears, I dared not say
+no, though the odds were fearful against us, and I was careful over
+_him_, though I'd not have minded for myself. Well, sir, two others
+joined us, and we succeeded in getting off; but just before we reached
+the sinking vessel, a heavy sea struck us, and in a moment we were all
+struggling in the water. I thought I heard Ralph--_he_ was Ralph too--I
+thought I heard him just say, 'God have mercy on my poor Betsey!'--she
+as you know, Master Willie--and then I knew nothing until I woke up in
+a room where some kind people were rubbing me with hot flannels, and
+offering me hot stuff to drink. So soon as I could speak, 'Where's
+Ralph?' I says, looking round for him; and then I saw in their faces how
+it was; and they came round me, treating me quite tenderly like a child,
+though they were rough sailors. And one of 'em, a God-fearing man, who
+had spoken a bit to us many a time when we'd no parson, was put forward
+by them, and he comes and whispers to me, 'You'll see him again, George,
+when the sea shall give up its dead. You'll meet before the throne of
+God and of the Lamb.' Well, sir, I was but a poor frail mortal, and my
+senses left me again, and I was long of coming round. But ever since
+then, as I look at the wide water, I seem to hear a voice saying, the
+sea shall give up its dead, and we'll meet some day before the throne of
+God and of the Lamb. Yes; I'm not afraid of the open Book for him, poor
+boy, for long afore that day I knew he'd taken his sailing orders under
+the Great Captain. 'Father,' he's said to me, 'I know Jesus Christ has
+_died_ for me; I must _live_ for him.' And when the poor body was washed
+ashore, there was his little Testament in his pocket, all dripping with
+the sea water. I dried it, and found it could still be read, and even
+some of his marks; there's not another thing I prize so much."
+
+Old George took the little unsightly-looking volume from his pocket, and
+gave it reverently to us to look at, and Aleck and I bent over it
+together, and deciphered on the title-page, in crooked lines of round
+handwriting, the name, _Ralph Groves_--_his book_; and underneath was a
+verse of a hymn, evidently remembered and not copied, which must have
+been one of those sung amongst the Methodists on that part of the coast
+where, as George told me, Ralph used to attend their meetings.
+
+    "Lord Jesus, be my constant Guide,
+      Then when the word is given,
+    Bid death's dark stream its waves divide,
+      And land me safe in heaven."
+
+"You see, young gentlemen," resumed George, when we had given him back
+the little book, "things which seem hard to bear--ay, and _are_ hard to
+bear now--are but little things after all, and will be as nothing in
+that day when all wrong words and tempers will seem great things, far
+greater than we sometimes think."
+
+Aleck and I had listened with full hearts to Groves's touching account
+of his son's death, and it was in a subdued quiet manner that we rose up
+from our meal and settled ourselves again in the boat. There was
+evidently an inward struggle going on in my cousin's mind, and I almost
+feared that he was going to ask my pardon, which I should have disliked,
+knowing myself to be so much the most in the wrong. It was quite a
+relief to find that in this I was mistaken; he only remained, as before,
+very silent; and I, too, was silent, and found myself, with eyes fixed
+on the water, thinking of George's son, and of the opened Book, and
+wondering concerning the things written therein, and whether all that
+had happened this day would be found there; whilst old George's words
+seemed to repeat themselves over in my mind, and I kept saying to
+myself, "The loss of the ship will be a very little thing then, whilst
+all wrong words and tempers will seem greater than we think."
+
+We had not resumed our search very long, when Aleck declared that he saw
+something white in the distance which he thought was the little vessel.
+We all eagerly turned our eyes in the direction indicated, and although
+no one felt very sure that we had at last discovered the object of our
+search, there was sufficient uncertainty to make us eager in pursuit. We
+had to tack frequently, but at last reached the little white thing which
+inspired our hopes, and, alas! discovered that it was only a whitened
+branch of a tree washed out from shore, on which the wet leaves
+glistened and shone in the afternoon sun. It was a fresh disappointment
+to us all, and the time our chase had occupied prevented the possibility
+of any further research. Even as it was, we were quite late in reaching
+the Cove, and found that my father had been on the watch for us with his
+telescope, and had been greatly perplexed by the erratic character of
+our movements.
+
+Of course he was instantly told the tragical history of our day. Aleck,
+whose sorrow had been renewed by our fruitless search, did not hesitate
+to lay emphasis upon the fact that I had been left alone at the Cove;
+and I was quite startled by the quick abrupt manner in which my father
+turned round to me and said,--
+
+"Willie, did you meddle with the ship or the rope whilst Aleck was
+away?"
+
+But, thankful that the inquiry took this form, I was able to answer
+unhesitatingly,--
+
+"No, papa, I did not touch the boat once, or the rope either, this
+morning, and it's very, very wrong of Aleck to say that I did."
+
+Whilst Aleck, the dark angry look flashing once again from his eyes,
+exclaimed,--
+
+"I know he hated my having the yacht; I'm sure he wanted me to lose it."
+
+Mr. Gordon, although as much shocked at this outburst as George had
+been, was not disposed to treat the matter quite as he had done.
+
+That both of us were guilty of wrong temper there could be no doubt, but
+he saw also that there was still something to be cleared up; and instead
+of quenching the subject by telling us we had both behaved badly, and
+deserved to be unhappy, as is the self-indulgent custom of many grown-up
+people in the matter of children's quarrels, he forbade any further
+recrimination, and after dinner was over, calmly and quietly inquired
+into every particular of our story, with as much care as if he had been
+on his magistrate's bench in court, and this were a case of great
+importance; first questioning Aleck, and then myself.
+
+As my examination drew to a close, however, Aleck once again burst in
+with the determined assertion that I knew more than I had said.
+
+My mother, who was present, was indignant at his persistency, saying
+that in all my life I had never told a lie, and it was unpardonable thus
+to speak of me; whilst my father simply said, "Since you are not able to
+conduct yourself with propriety, Aleck, you must go to bed." And my
+cousin left the room accordingly, whilst I was subjected to the moral
+torture of a further cross-examination; from which, however, strong in
+the distinct assertion that I had not touched either rope or boat, I
+came off clear.
+
+One step, indeed, my father gained, in the course of his inquiry,
+towards the truth. In answer to one of his questions, I used the
+pronoun _we_.
+
+"Who's _we_?" asked my father, quickly.
+
+"Frisk and I, papa."
+
+"Then you had Frisk with you, and I suppose as playful as usual?"
+
+"Yes, papa."
+
+"Did Frisk get at the ship or the rope, do you think?"
+
+"I never saw him touch the ship; I don't think he could touch it; but
+then I went to the meadow to fly the kite."
+
+"Did Frisk get near the rope?"
+
+"Yes, papa, just before I came away; but I didn't see him slip off the
+ring, though now I think he must have done so."
+
+"You think so because you saw him going near the rope?"
+
+"Yes, papa; but I can't tell you any more. I went to fly my kite, and
+Frisk came up quite panting soon after, having run hard because I had
+happened to leave him behind."
+
+"It was the dog did it," said my father quite decidedly, turning to my
+mother. "Willie, you should have been more careful; you might have known
+it was not safe to leave Frisk in the Cove; but I quite believe your
+word, and that you had no hand in the matter."
+
+Then the subject was dismissed: I played a game of chess with my mother,
+and finally went up to bed at the usual time, to receive, before going
+to sleep, the never-omitted visit, which was the peaceful closing to so
+many peaceful days.
+
+My mother stayed but for a moment on this evening, going on almost at
+once to my cousin's room.
+
+I heard all about that visit afterwards, so that I am able to tell what
+passed almost as well as if I had been present.
+
+My mother found Aleck lying wearily and restlessly in bed, with tearful
+eyes and hot flushed face, that told of sleep being by no means near.
+She sat down beside him and said, "It was a sad disappointment for you,
+Aleck, to lose your pretty new boat; and I daresay you feel it hard not
+to have your own dear mamma to tell all about it."
+
+Aleck tried to answer, but failed, bursting into tears instead, and my
+mother talked on in her gentle loving way until the sobs grew less
+frequent, and my cousin became at last quite calm. She told him that I
+had always spoken the truth--she little knew--and that she could not
+doubt my word, and that my father had become quite convinced it was the
+mischievous work of the dog that had brought about all this trouble; and
+then she made him feel how wrong it was to have accused me, instead of
+believing my word; so that, before she left the room, he had told her he
+was very very sorry for what he had said, and he hoped she and his uncle
+would forgive him, and that he meant to ask my forgiveness also. I know
+that my mother told him of a higher forgiveness that must be obtained
+before he could feel at peace with his conscience, and spoke to him
+somewhat in the same manner that George had, about trials great or small
+being kindly and lovingly permitted by a heavenly Father.
+
+I was almost asleep when my door opened, and the pattering of shoeless
+feet announced a visitor. Aleck was groping in the dark, and, guided by
+my voice, reached the bottom of my bed, discovered the mound raised by
+my feet, felt his way along the ridge of my person, and having arrived
+at my head, flung his arms around my neck, and kissing me warmly--in my
+eye by mistake--said he could not sleep until he had told me how sorry
+he was for having behaved so badly, and suspected me, and called me bad
+names. He was quite sure now that Frisk had done the mischief, and he
+hoped I would forgive him, adding that there was still just a chance of
+finding the vessel, and that he meant to be up very early, and out by
+six o'clock the next morning, to have a good look down in the White-Rock
+Cove. "I daresay I shall find it after all, Willie, and if not--why, I
+must finish the old thing we've been working at so long. But I once
+found a knife of mine after I had lost it a week in a hay-field; so you
+see I'm lucky." He kissed me again and went back to his bed, whilst I
+lay tossing and wakeful, full of shame and self-reproach, and yet more
+than ever built up in my determination that I would not, and could not,
+confess the whole truth; it would be too great a shame and humiliation
+after having so fully committed myself, and when my parents had
+expressed such perfect confidence in my truthfulness.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+ANOTHER SEARCH.
+
+
+Half-past eight o'clock in the morning. The gong had sounded, and we had
+all assembled in the library for prayers. All but Aleck, who, for the
+first time since he had been with us at Braycombe, was not in his usual
+place.
+
+My father missed him, and turned to ask me where he was.
+
+"I expect he has gone out, papa," I replied; "he meant to go down to the
+shore to look for his boat."
+
+"If you please, sir," said Bennet the footman, "I saw Master Gordon
+quite early this morning, maybe about six o'clock; he telled me he was
+going down to look after the ship."
+
+Family prayer was concluded and breakfast began, and still Aleck did not
+appear. As he had no watch, it was not surprising that he should
+mistake the time to a certain extent; but we all wondered he should be
+so very late, and at last my father began to feel uneasy. "He must have
+been a long way off not to have heard the eight o'clock bell," he said;
+"yet he's a careful boy; it seems unlikely he should come to any harm."
+
+"Run out on the lawn, Willie," suggested my mother, "and take a good
+look round; perhaps he may be in sight."
+
+But although I put a liberal interpretation upon the direction, and not
+only ran out upon the lawn, but also down the drive for a little way,
+and up the overhanging bank, from which we could got a sight far off
+towards the White-Rock Cove, I could see nothing of my cousin, and
+returned breathless to the dining-room without the tidings that my
+parents expected.
+
+The post had come in whilst I was out, and my father was engaged in the
+perusal of a letter from Uncle Gordon, reading little bits of it aloud
+to my mother as he went on. "Just starting for the Pyrenees ... need
+send no letters for a fortnight ... address Poste Restante, Marseilles,
+after this; the constant change of air has done wonders," &c. &c. When
+the letter was finished, I saw there was one enclosed for Aleck, which
+according to custom I laid upon his plate, repeating, at the same time,
+that I had looked in every direction, but could see nothing of my
+cousin.
+
+"He must have gone down to the lodge, and perhaps Groves kept him,
+finding it was late, and gave him something to take," said my mother.
+Whereupon my father rung the bell, and desired Bennet to go down at once
+to the lodge and inquire whether Master Gordon had been there, whilst in
+the mean time I finished my breakfast, and was sent to the school-room
+to get my lessons ready for Mr. Glengelly.
+
+It was not long before my father came to me. "Willie," he said, "I can't
+understand what has kept Aleck, and I fear he may have hurt himself, and
+not be able to make his way home; so I am going out at once to look for
+him, and you must help me."
+
+There was something rather dignified in being thus spoken to by my
+father, and, had it not been for the secret load, of which I dared not
+tell him, but which already began to weigh with additional heaviness on
+my heart, I should have felt somewhat elated at finding myself of
+importance.
+
+My father continued in a quick, decided manner: "Leave your lessons, and
+run off at once to the lodge. If you find Ralph anywhere about, so much
+the better, he can go with you; in any case you and George could manage
+to get the little boat round to the White-Rock Cove, keeping in shore as
+nearly as George thinks safe, and keep a sharp look-out all the way
+along for your cousin.--Stay; on second thoughts Rickson shall run down
+to the Cove too, in case Ralph is not to be found; you will want another
+hand."
+
+I did not need twice telling, but was off in an instant, and, breathless
+with excitement, reached the lodge a few minutes after.
+
+My story was soon told, and George lost no time in getting out the
+smallest of our boats, and with Ralph, who happened, as George said, to
+be fortunately "handy" on the occasion, we started upon our search. I
+could not help thinking of the morning before, and its search, but the
+excitement now kept up my spirits; it was something so new to be thus
+suddenly dismissed from lessons, and trusted to help in what was
+evidently considered a matter of some anxiety; _why_ they should be so
+anxious I did not trouble myself to reflect, having little idea but that
+Aleck had wandered further than he intended, and perhaps experienced
+some difficulty on his way home.
+
+We glided along quickly and pleasantly enough, past the first inlet, and
+the second, from our own Cove, scrutinizing all the banks, and rocks,
+and shady nooks, so familiar through many a wild exploring of ours; to
+reach the third we were obliged to stand out a considerable distance to
+sea, as the promontory bounding the White-Rock Cove on this side
+stretched far beyond the other rocky buttresses, making one of the most
+prominent land-marks in that part of the south coast. It was underneath
+its shelter that we had lunched the day before, and as we passed by the
+broad, flat stone in the little creek, the conversation we had had there
+repeated itself again and again in my mind.
+
+It was about half-past eleven o'clock when we had cleared this point,
+and George gave the order to haul down sail.
+
+"It's best to take to the oars now, Master Willie; we'd be a long while
+at it if we tacked--Now, Ralph, pull steady--You'll be about right if
+you keep her head straight for the White-Rock, Master Willie"--I was at
+the helm--"ease her, ease her a bit; more to port, sir, more to
+port--now steady again--now ship oars--the tide's running in pretty
+fast, and will carry us in." George's commands, thus given at intervals
+as we doubled the promontory and made for the Cove, alone broke silence,
+until, having shipped oars, there was nothing particular for him to do,
+and then all at once his tongue seemed unloosed. "Poor boy," he said,
+"it would be a sad day to us all if aught has happened amiss to him, and
+his parents too off in foreign parts. How cut up he was about his bit
+ship yesterday, but it matters little if he is safe to-day. I mind now
+he told me just afore we parted yesterday, that he thought it was quite
+possible our little ship might have driven ashore here. But I hope he
+hasn't been rash in trying to climb where it's dangerous even for an
+active boy like him."
+
+"He told me last night," I said, "that he meant to look all along the
+shore as far as this. Papa said we were to come here just in case--"
+
+We were getting close into shore now, and Ralph, standing up in front of
+me, held his oar to push us off from the rocks until we reached our
+usual place for landing. George sat facing me, so that Ralph was the
+only one who was able to see well ahead at the moment. There was
+something in his manner which startled me, as he bent down all at once
+and simply said, "Grandfather!" George turned round in a moment, and his
+short ejaculation and smothered "Oh!" confirmed me in a terrible fear
+they had made some discovery, and almost at the same instant, leaning
+forward, I could see my cousin lying prostrate on the beach just by the
+White Rock, at the bottom of a steep part of the cliff, and scarcely a
+foot from the water's edge.
+
+I felt my knees shaking, as I tried to rise and could not; tried to
+speak, and the words died on my lips; then, for a moment, buried my face
+in my hands, and gasped out presently, "He's dead." I thought for a
+moment that I should die too, the sense of utter, hopeless, unbearable
+misery seemed so terrible.
+
+[Illustration: THE DISCOVERY.]
+
+George only answered, "Please the Lord, Master Willie, it may not be so
+bad as that;" and hastily drawing in the boat to the rocks, he leapt
+ashore, and made his way, in less time than it takes to relate, to where
+my cousin was lying. Ralph and I got ashore also, but my knees trembled
+so that I could not stand, but sunk down upon the rock. Ralph flung the
+rope to me. "Keep her from drifting, master," he said, "and I'll run and
+help grandfather."
+
+It was a moment of terrible suspense. Groves knelt at Aleck's side, bent
+his cheek down to his lips, then listened for the beating of his
+heart--he might have heard mine at that minute--and then turning towards
+me he exclaimed, "He's still alive!"
+
+I had courage to move now, and fastening the rope, I came and stood by
+Groves, as he knelt on the beach beside Aleck. I could scarcely believe
+it was not death when I looked at the colourless face and closed eyes,
+and needed all Groves' reassurance to convince me that he had not been
+mistaken when he said my cousin was still alive.
+
+"Thank God, Master Willie, we came when we did!" he added reverently,
+and pointing to the waves as they washed up to our feet; "ten minutes
+more, and the tide will be up over this place where he's lying. We must
+move him at once--but he's deadly cold. Off with your jacket, Ralph and
+put it over him, and--oh! see here!" he pointed to the arm which hung
+down heavily as he gently raised the unconscious form,--"the arm's
+broken."
+
+The question now was how we were to get him home. By land it would not
+be more than an hour's climb; but then a _climb_ it must be, and this
+was almost impossible under the circumstances; whilst, on the other
+hand, with the wind no longer in our favour, it would be a good two
+hours getting back by water, and there was the anxiety of not being able
+to let my father know.
+
+Whilst George was anxiously deliberating with himself--for neither of us
+boys were in a state to offer any suggestions--we looked up, and saw my
+father rapidly descending the hill-side.
+
+In another moment he stood in the midst of our little group, and had
+heard how it was with my cousin. "I feared so," he said, "when I saw you
+all standing together. Thank God, the child is still alive!"
+
+There was no longer any questioning of what was best to be done. My
+father was always able to decide things in a moment. "It would be too
+great a risk to carry him without any stretcher. We must take him round
+in the boat. How's the wind, George?"
+
+"Not favourable, sir; we must trust more to the oars."
+
+"Then you and Ralph must row. Willie, I think I can trust you, but
+remember a great deal may depend upon your carrying your message
+correctly. Run home as quickly as you can by the lower wood, it's quite
+safe that way; tell mamma that Aleck is hurt, and that Rickson must go
+off for Dr. Wilson in the dog-cart at once; if Dr. Wilson cannot be
+found, he must bring Mr. Bryant; and James must bring down the carriage
+to wait for us at the lodge. Don't frighten your mamma; tell her as
+quietly and gently as you can. If you meet Mr. Glengelly, tell him
+first, and he will break it to mamma. Do you quite understand?"
+
+"Yes, papa," I replied, thankful to have something given me to do, and
+yet feeling as if I were in the midst of a terrible waking dream. After
+my father had taken the precaution of once again repeating his
+directions, I sped off up the steep hill-side, by way of the lower wood,
+towards home, whilst he gently lifted up my cousin and carried him to
+the boat.
+
+I shall never forget that walk home--_walk_ I call it, though, wherever
+running was possible, I _ran_. The feeling of misery and terror that was
+upon me, seemed to be mocked by the gay twittering of the birds, and the
+dancing of the sunbeams through the leaves, and the familiar appearance
+of the laden blackberry bushes, and copses famous for rich returns in
+the nutting season. Everything in nature looking so undisturbed and
+unaffected by what was filling me with grief, appeared to add to my
+wretchedness. All the way along, I had the vision of my cousin's pale
+face before my eyes. True, he was not dead; but, child that I was, I had
+sufficient sense to know that often death followed an accident which
+was not immediately fatal, and _if_ he died it would be almost as though
+I had murdered him. I can remember trying hard to fancy it was a
+dreadful dream, and that I should wake up, as I had done on the
+preceding night, to find that my fears were all unreal; and as every
+step, bringing me nearer home, made this increasingly impossible to
+imagine, I changed the subject of my speculations, and took to
+remembering all the dreadful things I had ever read in history or
+story-books, of people dying of broken hearts, or living on and never
+smiling again, and fancying it was going to be the same with me; and I
+grew quite frightened, and trembled so much that I scarcely knew how to
+climb up the steep bits of the path.
+
+I was still about a quarter of a mile from the house when I met Mr.
+Glengelly, who was also on the search for Aleck. It was a wonderful
+relief to have some one to speak to after the long silence of the past
+hour, and to be cheered up by his assurance that a broken arm was no
+very formidable accident after all, and that a little severe pain, and a
+few weeks invalidism, sounded very alarming, but would in reality pass
+quickly by.
+
+"Then you think, perhaps Aleck won't die," I faltered, struggling to get
+breath, for the haste in which I had come had made speaking difficult.
+
+"Die!" echoed my tutor cheerily; "why, Willie, people don't die of a
+broken arm! I broke my arm when I was a little boy of twelve, and you
+see I'm alive still." I smiled faintly; it was so much better than
+anything I had expected to hear. "It's true," added the tutor, "that
+there may be more than the broken arm, but we must hope for the best. In
+the meantime, Willie, you have had enough running, you are quite out of
+breath, and had better come the rest of the way quietly; I will go on
+and carry out your father's directions."
+
+When I reached home every one seemed in a bustle, and too busy to take
+any notice of me. My mother indeed spared time to tell me I had been a
+good brave boy to come home so fast with the message, and that I had
+better go and sit quietly to rest in the school-room; but she hurried
+away immediately to finish her preparations, and I found she was getting
+the spare room next to her own ready for Aleck, instead of the little
+room next to mine.
+
+I had a lingering hope that Mr. Glengelly might appear in the
+school-room, but he had gone down with Bennet to the lodge to see if he
+could be of use when the boat came in, so that I was quite alone, and
+could only watch from the half-open door the doings of the servants as
+they passed to and fro, all seeming in a flutter, and as if it lay upon
+them as a duty to move about, and run hither and thither, without any
+particular object that I could discover.
+
+After about an hour, the sound of wheels on the drive announced the
+approach of the carriage. I sprang to my post of observation, and saw
+Aleck, still deathly pale, and unconscious, carried carefully in by my
+father and Mr. Glengelly, and my mother on the first landing of the
+stairs, looking terribly anxious but perfectly composed, beckoning them
+up, as she said to my father,--
+
+"Everything is ready, dear, in the room next to ours."
+
+Then they all went up-stairs, and I saw nothing more until, a few
+moments later, Mr. Glengelly looked in and told me I was to go to dinner
+by myself, as he was going to drive to Elmworth at once, and my parents
+could not come down-stairs.
+
+It seemed strange and forlorn to go into our large dining-room, and sit
+at the table all by myself, whilst James stood behind me and changed my
+plate, and handed me the dishes all in their proper order, as if I had
+been grown up. I was hungry, or rather, perhaps, stood in need of food,
+after the morning's exertions, but I felt quite surprised at my own
+utter indifference as to _what_ I had to eat, when I had the opportunity
+of an entirely free selection. I took my one help of tart, and a single
+peach, without the shadow of a desire such as is common to children, and
+which I should in happier times unquestionably have shared, to improve
+the occasion by a little extra allowance.
+
+I had scarcely finished when my mother came in for two or three minutes.
+
+"Mamma," I said, running eagerly to her, "do tell me, will Aleck die?"
+
+"My darling," she answered, "we cannot say how much he is hurt until the
+doctor comes;" and she stooped down to kiss away the tears that came to
+my eyes when I noticed the sad, quiet voice with which she spoke, so
+unlike Mr. Glengelly's cheerful, re-assuring manner. "You must pray to
+God, my child, that if it be His will he may recover, and try to cheer
+up, because there is still hope the injury may not prove very serious;
+we must hope for the best. I am going to bring papa up a glass of wine
+and a biscuit; will you carry up the plate for me?"
+
+Just as we were going up-stairs, she added, to comfort me,--
+
+"Willie, my child, how thankful I feel that you had nothing to do with
+the loss of the ship."
+
+At which, observation--from her point of view, consolatory; from mine,
+like a dagger-thrust--I became so convulsed with sobs, that my mother
+slipped into the room where Aleck was, laid down the plate and the
+wine-glass, and returning again, took me down to the school-room, and
+simply devoted herself for some minutes to soothing me back into
+composure. She rose to go, but I clung to her dress; "Mamma, mamma," I
+entreated, "don't leave me, please don't leave me."
+
+"I _must_ leave you, Willie," she answered, "and you must try to bear up
+bravely for my sake, and for Aleck's. You will do what you can to help
+in this sad time of trouble, and not add to my distress by giving way
+like this. You are over-tired, I think, and had better take a book, and
+stay here for the present, and lie down on the sofa and rest.
+Afterwards, if you like, you can go in the garden."
+
+I preferred remaining in the school-room; I could see the hall-door, and
+up the first flight of stairs, and could hear the opening and shutting
+of doors up-stairs, and occasional remarks from passers through the
+hall, so that I felt less lonely than I knew I should feel in the
+garden. Frisk came and sat with his fore-paws on my lap--he seemed aware
+that something had gone wrong--and wagged his tail, not merrily, but
+slowly and mournfully, as if to express, after his fashion, how truly he
+sympathized in our distress.
+
+At last, once again there was the sound of wheels; it was the dog-cart
+this time, and Frisk threw back his head, pricked up his ears, and,
+with a quick bark, darted off to sanction the arrival of the doctor with
+his presence.
+
+My father, too, was at the hall-door in an instant.
+
+"I am thankful to see you," he said, as the doctor sprung from the
+dog-cart; "you have heard the circumstances?"
+
+"I have," answered Dr. Wilson, following my father quickly up-stairs.
+"Is he still unconscious?"
+
+The answer was lost to me; but all at once, as I thought of Dr. Wilson,
+and how much depended upon his visit, the recollection of my mother's
+words came back to me, "We must pray God, Willie, if it be His will
+Aleck may get better;" and with a sudden impulse I jumped up, shut the
+door, and kneeling down, with my head pressed upon my hands, I prayed
+with a sort of intensity I had never known before: "O Lord, make Aleck
+well, do make Aleck well, don't let him die,"--repeating the words over
+and over again, and getting up with some dim sense of comfort in my
+mind, as I thought that God had the power as much now as when in our
+human nature He walked upon this world, to heal all that were ill; and
+had He not said, "Ask, and you shall receive?"
+
+Why was it that the verse which I had repeated that morning to my
+mother, after breakfast, came back so often to my mind? "_If I regard
+iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me._" Generally my mother
+explained my daily text, but this morning, owing to the anxiety about
+Aleck's disappearance, there had not been the usual time, and she had
+simply heard the verse, and sent me off, as before-mentioned, to the
+school-room. Now I took to explaining it for myself. What business had I
+to pray with that iniquity hidden in my heart, of which no one knew but
+God? How could I get forgiven? what was I to do?
+
+Conscience took courage and put in the suggestion, "Confess boldly to
+your parents the sin that is lying so heavily upon you." But then the
+thought that, if Aleck never got better, they would think me his
+murderer, took possession of me, and I took pains to convince myself,
+against my own reason, that after all, I had not actually been guilty
+of falsehood, since the real manner in which the ship had been lost was
+actually guessed by my father; that it would do no good if I were to
+give them the pain of knowing that I had allowed it to happen, having it
+in my power to prevent it; that, after all, it would be enough to
+confess to God and get forgiven.
+
+But the reasoning, though for a time it silenced the promptings of
+conscience, did not give me peace of mind; and a sense that I could not
+pray--that, at least, my prayers would do no good--took from me the only
+comfort that was worth thinking of.
+
+I was so taken up with these reflections, that I never heard steps upon
+the stairs, and started with an exclamation almost of fright when the
+door opened rather quickly, and my father and Dr. Wilson came in.
+
+"Why, Willie, there's nothing to be frightened at," exclaimed my father.
+"Here's Dr. Wilson come to cheer us up about Aleck, who is to get quite
+well by-and-by, we hope."
+
+"Yes, yes, little man," said Dr. Wilson, kindly chucking me under the
+chin, after a fashion which I have noticed prevails amongst grown-up
+tall people who are amiably disposed towards children; "we shall soon
+hope to bring him round again. With all your monkey-like ways of
+climbing about the rocks, my only wonder is I've not had you for a
+patient long ago!"
+
+Something seemed to strike him in the face he was holding up by the
+chin, and releasing me from a quick glance of inspection, he asked
+presently whether I had seen Aleck, and listened to the account I had to
+give of how Ralph had first noticed him lying at the foot of the rock.
+
+Then he and my father stepped out by the window, and walked up and down
+on the lawn; and I heard Dr. Wilson say to my father, "Any one can see
+the boy has had a shock; take care he does not get frightened."
+
+From the fragments of conversation which reached me,--sitting as I did
+in the open window, whilst they passed by, walking up and down on the
+lawn outside,--I gathered that they were discussing the possibility of
+communication with Uncle and Aunt Gordon; and as they came in again
+through the school-room, my father said, "You are sure that the crisis
+will be over by that time?"
+
+"Quite sure. There is nothing for it now but perfect quiet, the
+administration of the medicines and cordials I have prescribed, when
+possible, and close watch of all the symptoms. I can assure you I am not
+without hope. You may look for me again by ten o'clock."
+
+And so saying, Dr. Wilson drove rapidly off, and my father went back
+again to Aleck's room. I think it must have been his planning, that
+nurse soon afterwards came down to the school-room and bestowed her
+company upon me for quite a long time, entertaining me at first, or
+meaning to entertain me, by a wearisome narration about a little boy who
+lived nowhere in particular a long time ago; but she wakened up all my
+interest when at last, unable to keep off the subject as she had
+intended, she gave me a detailed account of my cousin having been put
+into the bed in the spare room; and how he had lain so still, she could
+scarcely believe her senses he was not dead; and how, when Dr. Wilson
+set his arm, the pain of the operation seemed to waken him up for a
+moment from the stupor, but he had gone back again almost immediately.
+"The doctor said," she added, "that it was the injury to the head that
+was of the greatest consequence--the arm was nothing to signify, a mere
+simple fracture; as if a broken arm were a mere nothing. I should like
+to know whether, _if his own_ were broken, he would call it a simple
+fracture, and say it didn't signify!" And nurse looked righteously
+indignant, and as if she would be rather glad than otherwise for Dr.
+Wilson to meet with an accident, and learn, by personal experience, the
+true measure of insignificance or importance attaching to a broken limb.
+Remembering, however, at this point, the inconvenience which might
+result to ourselves from such a catastrophe, she retreated from the
+position, and took to speculating what the doctor's views were likely to
+be with reference to his night accommodation; whether he would go
+"between sheets," or merely lie down on the sofa, and what motives might
+be likely to influence him towards either decision; reasoning it all out
+to me as if I had been grown-up.
+
+In fact, one of the peculiar sensations which are stamped upon every
+recollection of that long sad day, was that of being treated as though I
+were a "person," and not a child, by almost every member of the
+community; a sensation bringing with it a dim sense of glory--that might
+have been--but which my guilty position kept me back from enjoying.
+
+Both my parents came down to a sort of dinner-tea, which we had together
+at about seven o'clock, and my mother stayed a little while with me
+afterwards, and then sent me off, rather earlier than usual, to bed,
+upon the plea of my being weary with the long, anxious day.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+SORROWFUL DAYS.
+
+
+To bed; but not to my usual peaceful sleep; for all the night through
+one terrible dream seemed to succeed the other, until, in the act of
+landing at the White-Rock Cove, and calling for help, I woke at last to
+find myself standing somewhere in the dark, I could not at first make
+out where, though it turned out to be in Aleck's room, to which I had
+made my way in my sleep.
+
+I began to cry with fright, and my father came running up to see what
+was the matter. He was quite dressed, and brought a candle with him, and
+looked so natural and real that he chased away all spectral frights.
+After he had put me back to bed, and sat with me a little, I fell into a
+quieter sleep than I had had before; and slept on, indeed, quite late,
+for nobody called me the next morning, and I did not come down until
+prayers were over, and breakfast just about to commence.
+
+Only my father and Dr. Wilson were in the room. My father looked very
+anxious; but Dr. Wilson spoke to me cheerily enough.
+
+"So this is the young gentleman," he said, drawing me towards him, "that
+is not content to walk by day, but must needs walk by night also!" and
+he looked straight at me, as if he could read me through and through;
+whilst I, knowing the dreadful story hidden in my heart, felt quite
+alarmed lest he might read _that_ there; and I could feel the beatings
+of my heart, as if a steam-engine were at work, as I tried not to meet
+the glance of those keen, piercing eyes.
+
+He released me after a moment, and presently afterwards said to my
+father,--
+
+"Close your lesson-books for a while; the boat and the saddle will be
+the best lesson-books, or you may have more trouble than you think of."
+
+I felt sure what he said had something to do with me, and wondered what
+he meant,--finding the explanation in Mr. Glengelly's strange
+indisposition to give me anything but a drawing-lesson that morning, and
+taking me off for a long ride before dinner, contrary to all established
+customs.
+
+Aleck grew no better all through the day, and the next night he was
+worse.
+
+On Saturday morning, two other doctors came to consult with Dr. Wilson;
+and I could read in the grave faces around me that the worst was
+apprehended. But I saw scarcely anything of my father or mother, or even
+nurse, so that all tidings from the sick-room came through remote
+channels--servants who had taken something up to the room, or Mr.
+Glengelly, who had seen one of the doctors for a moment, and whom I
+suspected of keeping back the full gravity of the verdict.
+
+If I could only have seen my father or mother alone quietly, without
+their being in a hurry, I thought I should have told them everything;
+but no opportunity presented itself, and another weary day wore by
+without any unburdening of my conscience, or relief to my gloomy
+anticipations.
+
+Sunday morning! Such a happy day generally! for my parents contrived to
+make it really, and not nominally, the best of all the seven; but now,
+how dreary was the awakening to a Sunday which I expected to be only the
+melancholy repetition of the preceding days, if not far sadder!
+
+The weather had turned chilly, and the servants, to make things look a
+little brighter, made this the excuse for a fire in the dining-room, by
+which I crouched down on the rug, after breakfast, with a Sunday
+story-book in my hand, wondering whether I should go to church, or what
+would happen in a state of things so different from what was usual; and
+why it was I was told I need not prepare my repetition lesson from the
+Bible, according to custom. By-and-by my father came in and told me to
+get ready to go with him to church; he thought he might safely leave
+Aleck for a little while, and would like to have me walk with him.
+
+We had not far to go, for the church stood but a quarter of a mile from
+our house, and there was a direct pathway to it through the woods. I
+thought perhaps I should muster courage to open my heart to my father as
+we went along. But first we met one person and then another, anxious to
+know the last report from the sick-room, so that we had no time alone,
+and I had to reserve my confession until we should come home after
+church. Aleck was to be prayed for in church, my father told me; and he
+added that I was to think of Uncle and Aunt Gordon too, in the Litany,
+for it would be a sore trouble to them to have been away from their only
+child in such a time as this. And then he spoke to me of childish fears
+about death, and said that, for those who were safe in Jesus, death was
+a friend, and not an enemy; and that I must pray that, if it pleased God
+Aleck should never get well, he might go to the beautiful home prepared
+for all the children of God: and the firm grasp of my father's hand, and
+his clear, unhesitating voice, conveyed to my timorous, troubled heart,
+a sort of belief in a calm, sheltered haven, that might succeed in time
+to the outside tossings on stormy waters, and I felt comforted, though I
+scarcely knew how.
+
+Mr. Morton, our clergyman, was away for a month's holidays, and it was a
+stranger who performed the service. When I heard the prayers of the
+congregation requested for "Alexander Ringwall Gordon, who was
+dangerously ill," it seemed almost more than I could bear, the long
+formal enunciation of his name sounding so terribly like a
+death-warrant.
+
+If ever I tried to _pray_ the Church prayers, and not merely say them,
+it was that morning; and it seemed to me quite wonderful how much of
+them agreed with my own feelings, how many things there were in the
+service that were exactly what I wanted. Hitherto the singing had
+appeared the only attractive portion of divine worship; but now that,
+for the first time in my life, I knew what it was to have a really
+sin-burdened conscience, the sweetest music seemed as nothing in
+comparison with the assurance that a broken and contrite spirit would
+not be despised of God, or to the comfort of ranking myself unreservedly
+amongst the miserable sinners in the Litany--concerning whom I had
+hitherto only wondered, Were they so miserable after all?--and pleading
+alike with voice and heart for God's mercy, of which I felt myself to
+stand so sorely in need.
+
+The Commandments were being read when the little door leading into our
+large family-pew was opened, and Rickson softly came in and whispered to
+my father, who in his turn leant over and whispered to me. A message had
+come from the house, he said, and he must go back at once; he knew I
+could be trusted to stay by myself and walk home afterwards. He and
+Rickson quietly slipped out, and I was left sole tenant of the large
+square pew, with its high partition, and ponderous chairs, and
+fire-place, and table, just like a small room, as is the custom in
+old-fashioned churches.
+
+Very lonely indeed I felt, as I stood up by myself, and tried to join in
+the hymn, and wished that I were not so small or the pew not so lofty;
+it seemed so strange to be joining in singing with people of whom no
+single individual could be seen--it had never struck me before, with my
+own dear parents always at my side. Presently the clerk appeared opening
+the door of the pulpit--that at all events I could see--to the strange
+clergyman, who seemed to me to look with a searching glance of inquiry
+straight down into my solitary domain, as if he meant to call me to
+account for being there all alone.
+
+Having nobody to look at as an example, I sat myself timidly upon a
+corner of one of the chairs after the hymn was over, and then, suddenly
+remembering I had made a mistake, knelt down with the colour mounting to
+the very roots of my hair, and a terrible sense of the congregation all
+looking at me and taking notes of my behaviour.
+
+We smile at our childish embarrassments as we look back upon them, but
+they are very serious and real troubles whilst they last.
+
+When I rose from my knees, I was far too shy to place myself
+comfortably, but sat, as before, upon a little corner of a chair, and
+hoped the congregation wouldn't take any notice, whilst mentally I
+prepared myself for unrestrained meditation on the all-engrossing
+subject of my thoughts, in place of the many speculations with which I
+was wont to beguile sermon-time in general.
+
+For here I must pause to observe that Mr. Morton's sermons were usually
+entirely beyond my childish understanding, and attention to them on my
+part was practically in vain; so that after learning the text by heart,
+which I was always expected to repeat perfectly afterwards, I used to
+spend a great part of the time remaining to me in a minute survey of all
+objects falling within the limited range of my observation, including
+especially the monumental tablets, of which there were many on the
+church walls; those on the right being for the most part to the memory
+of the Grants of Braycombe; those on the left to the successive rectors
+of Braycombe parish, who had lived and died after what seemed to me
+boundless periods of ministry amongst their attached flock.
+
+Two of these tablets in particular had supplied much food for
+consideration in my early days.--I used to look back upon early days
+even at ten years old with a sort of affectionate patronage.--These
+tablets exactly corresponded with each other in size and position, and
+were both beyond the range of complete legibility, only words in
+capitals coming out distinctly. But these very words in capitals were
+the cause of my anxious meditations. For on the one hand I read the name
+of the "Rev. Joseph Brocklehurst, Rector," with, a line or two further
+down, "Mary, wife of the _above_;" whilst on the other, which was to the
+memory of my grandfather, my own name at full length, "William Preston
+Grant," was underneath the only other word I could distinguish, and that
+word was "_Below._" Many a Sunday did I ruminate upon the unpleasant
+contrast which, to my mind, was suggested by the two prepositions
+between the present condition of the Rev. Joseph Brocklehurst and that
+of my grandfather; and it was not without some hesitation that I
+revealed my perplexity to my father at last, by the abrupt inquiry, one
+day on our way home from church, whether my grandfather had been a
+_very_ wicked man. Greatly surprised were both my parents at this
+unlooked-for question, and I believe not a little amused at the train of
+reasoning which had led me to it; but they took an early opportunity of
+taking me into the church, not on a Sunday, and permitting me to go near
+to the tablets, pointing out the connecting words which were not
+legible, and which supplied a full explanation of all that I wanted to
+know, and showing me that the _below_ referred to the position of the
+family vault under the church, and the _above_ to the relative position
+of the Rev. J. Brocklehurst's name to that of his wife.
+
+Often after that explanation I thought, as I looked at the tablets, of
+the words my father said to me at the time: "Willie, there are many
+things in God's dealings with his children that are hard to understand
+_here_; by-and-by, when we see things nearer, in the light of eternity,
+we shall find out that our difficulty has just been because here we see
+in part--as you did the inscriptions--but _then_ we shall see face to
+face, and know even as we are known."
+
+There was another monumental tablet about which I thought a great deal,
+which preached to me a silent sermon as often as I looked at it. Under
+the name and date of birth and death of the person it commemorated were
+the words, "_Prepare to meet thy God._" I spent a long time looking for
+them in my Bible, and thought a great deal about the verse when I had
+found it; wondering whether the young midshipman, son of one of the
+rectors, upon whose monument it had been engraved, had thought about
+them too, or whether it was a sort of warning because he had _not_
+prepared. It was upon this latter train of thought, with reflections
+concerning Aleck and myself woven into it--_I_ clearly not prepared, and
+wondering whether Aleck was prepared--that I found myself starting as I
+settled shyly upon my little corner of the chair, and looked timidly for
+my Bible in order to find the text.
+
+What was my surprise when Psalm lxvi. 18 was given out, and the
+well-known words, so often repeated to myself, were repeated slowly and
+impressively by the stranger clergyman from the pulpit--"If I regard
+iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me."
+
+It seemed to me so wonderful and so strange that he should have fixed
+upon the very passage that I had thought of so often within the previous
+two days, that at first I almost fancied I was dreaming. But I felt
+still more surprised when, after anxiously attending to what was said
+for a few minutes, I found the sermon was as easy to understand as my
+mother's conversation after a Bible reading: all inattention was gone,
+and for the first time in my life I was listening with interest deep
+and anxious, whilst the clergyman, in simple language, explained the
+text so clearly that not one in the church need have gone away
+uninstructed.
+
+_The_ great question that I wanted to hear answered was, Whether, in my
+circumstances, with an unconfessed sin lying heavily on my heart, it was
+of any use for me to pray to God for Aleck?--what was the exact meaning
+of _regarding iniquity_ in my heart?
+
+The very first words of the sermon landed us in the midst of the
+question. "Unforgiven sin," said the clergyman, "is a barrier between
+our souls and our God." And presently afterwards he referred us to
+Isaiah lix. 2: "Your iniquities have separated between you and your God,
+and your sins have hid his face from you that he will not hear;" and to
+a long passage in the 1st chapter of Isaiah, finishing with the words,
+"When ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of
+blood." Then he spoke to the congregation of the many Sundays during
+which they had come together to worship, whilst in the case of many of
+them their lives were unsanctified, their religion for one day in seven
+only, not for the whole week;--they loved their sins and would not give
+them up on any account, hoping to square their account with God by an
+outward attendance on Divine worship. It was all put in very simple
+language; and we were told to look back into one week of our lives to
+find out whether we were _fighting against_ sin as an enemy, or
+_cherishing_ sin as a friend: and if living in sin, as servants of
+Satan, we had the solemn truth to lay home to our consciences that our
+prayers never reached heaven; the promise, true for the children of God,
+that he would hear and answer prayer, was not true for those who were
+the servants or slaves of sin.
+
+Then there was an appeal to those who felt conscious of sin and wished
+for forgiveness, and I felt I belonged to that class, and listened with
+increasing eagerness. Was it for them to say, "I must then reform my
+ways and make myself better before I can go to Christ for pardon?" Oh,
+no! The prayer of the publican, "God be merciful to me a sinner," was
+heard and answered. Christ's invitation was addressed to the weary and
+_heavy laden_, "Come unto _Me_." He died to take our punishment instead
+of us; and those who, instead of cherishing sin, felt it a burden too
+heavy for them to bear, were to bring it and lay it down at the foot of
+the cross, and find rest to their souls.
+
+There followed a few words about sins _forgiven_ being sins _forsaken_.
+Any person who had been in the habit of dishonest dealing would adopt
+habits of rectitude, and would make restitution when possible. Those who
+had uttered falsehoods would no longer persist in untruthfulness, but
+would speak the whole truth, even if to their own cost. And all this
+would be because Christ _had_ forgiven them, and not in order to _obtain
+forgiveness_. I do not remember the rest of the sermon, but just at the
+end there was a beautiful piece about the happiness of finding the great
+barrier gone:--Just as when a little child, conscious of some wrong
+action, feels ashamed to meet the eyes of its loving parents, and is
+conscious of a separation that casts a dark shadow over all the usual
+home happiness, at last, with repenting heart and quivering voice,
+whispers in the loving ears of father or mother the secret trouble that
+lies heavily upon the sin-burdened conscience, and in the tender embrace
+of forgiveness finds pardon and peace: so with the sinner who has found
+peace at the foot of the cross; the barrier of separation is no more;
+the way into the holiest is made manifest by the blood of the Atonement;
+and the promise is written in letters of gold, "_If ye abide in me, and
+my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will and it shall be done
+unto you._"
+
+Before I left the church, and took my solitary walk home through the
+wood, I had made up my mind to confess all to my parents at the very
+earliest opportunity; and with this determination there was already a
+sense of relief.
+
+But the opportunity did not occur so soon as I had expected; for I found
+a solitary dinner awaiting me, and the whole of that long afternoon,
+except for the servants, who brought a message once or twice from the
+sick-room to the effect that my parents dared not leave even for a
+minute, I was quite alone, either sitting on the hearth-rug by the fire,
+or standing at the door listening for any footstep on the passage
+up-stairs, or even the opening or shutting of doors.
+
+At last, at about five o'clock, I heard my father coming softly
+down-stairs, and sprang to meet him. "Papa, papa, tell me, is Aleck
+better?"
+
+"I fear not, my child," answered my father gently. "I think, Willie,
+that God is going to take him to Himself. But he is conscious just now,
+and wants to see you. He has asked that he may wish you good-bye. You
+must be very quiet indeed, and speak very gently."
+
+I felt the tears coming hot and fast, and there was a terrible choking
+in my throat; but it was impossible to hold out one moment longer, and,
+struggling through my sobs, I gasped out, "Oh, papa, I have killed
+him!--it's all my fault!--oh! what shall I do?" and I clung,
+terror-stricken, to the hand which he had placed on my shoulder.
+
+My father sat down, and tried to soothe me, putting his arm around me,
+and saying kind, comforting words, evidently at a loss to understand the
+purport of my broken utterances, whilst I tried, and tried in vain, to
+control my sobs, and regain sufficient composure to explain.
+
+At last he said firmly,--
+
+"This agitation would do Aleck grievous harm; I must not take you to him
+until you are quite calm, Willie, and yet the moments are precious: keep
+what you have to say until another time, and try to stop crying; I shall
+have to go up-stairs without you, unless you can be ready soon."
+
+Then he gave me a glass of water, and still telling me not to speak,
+waited until I had mastered my emotion and was tolerably calm, then led
+me by the hand up to Aleck's room.
+
+"Wish me good-bye," I said over and over to myself. Such a long
+good-bye, how could I bear it!
+
+There was no one else in the room at the moment but my mother, who sat
+at the foot of the bed with something in her hand for Aleck. It was not
+until I had advanced nearly to the bed that, with tear-blinded eyes, I
+could distinguish my cousin's face. It was so deadly pale that I started
+at the sight; but though pale and wan he was perfectly conscious, and
+as I drew near he whispered softly,--
+
+"I'm so glad you've come, Willie--I wanted to see you, and wish you
+good-bye." There was a pause, and then more faintly he continued,--"I
+want to be quite sure you've forgiven me, Willie;--Jesus has; I've asked
+him."
+
+I bent forward and kissed the white face that lay so quiet and still,
+struggling to keep down my sobs, though I felt as if my heart would
+break, and longing to be able to say but one word, that Aleck might know
+it was I who asked his forgiveness, but longing in vain.
+
+"You forgive me quite, Willie," murmured Aleck again.
+
+[Illustration: WILLIE AT ALECK'S BED SIDE.]
+
+But at the first attempt to speak, I broke down utterly, with such a
+burst of pent-up grief, that to control it was impossible, and I was
+hurried quickly out of the room, lest my emotion should be injurious to
+Aleck; my mother herself almost carrying me down-stairs, and sorely
+divided between the desire to stay and comfort me, and at the same time
+to remain at her post up-stairs with my cousin.
+
+For a few minutes, however, she remained with her arm around me, and my
+head resting on her shoulder; and when, by degrees, I grew a little more
+calm, though it cost a fearful effort, I contrived to sob out my
+confession, and let her know how wicked I had been, and also how
+miserable. I could see it was a terrible shock to her when she grasped
+my meaning, and she did not attempt to disguise the pain it cost her.
+For the first time in my life I saw my mother shed tears. But the
+knowledge of my guilt seemed to add to her pity for me.
+
+"My poor little Willie," she said; "you have indeed had a terrible load
+upon your heart; your punishment has come more quickly upon you and more
+heavily than sometimes happens: but remember there is One whose blood
+cleanses from all sin--the heavenly Father's ear is open to you, Willie,
+through Jesus, and you must get forgiveness where those who really seek
+it are never turned away."
+
+"I wanted to tell Aleck, mamma, too; but I couldn't."
+
+"There is no need to trouble Aleck about that now," said my mother
+sorrowfully: "the ship seems a little thing to him now, Willie; his
+thoughts are on the great things of eternity. It might agitate him, and
+it would not make him happier to know about it; but if you like I will
+tell him that you love him dearly, and are very sorry for everything you
+have ever done that may not have been kind."
+
+Even this message, vague as it was, seemed better than none, and I
+thankfully endorsed it.
+
+"But oh, mamma," I added, "do tell me that you think it just possible he
+may get well again. I think it will kill me if he does not."
+
+"He is in God's hands, Willie," answered my mother, "and with God all
+things are possible; but I fear there is little hope of his getting any
+better. Dr. Wilson does not say there is _no_ hope, but the other
+doctors quite gave him up. I do not hide it from you, my child, because
+it is easier to know the worst than to be in doubt and suspense; and God
+will help you--help us all--to bear it."
+
+There were tears in my mother's eyes and a tremble in her voice as she
+said this, and as it rushed upon me all at once how greatly it must add
+to her trouble to know that I was the cause of it, my own grief seemed
+rekindled. She gently unclasped my hands, which were tightly locked
+around her.
+
+"I must leave you now, my poor child," she said; "I cannot stay a minute
+longer away from Aleck;" and stooping down, she kissed me in spite of my
+wickedness, and went away up-stairs; whilst I, throwing myself upon the
+sofa, buried my head in my hands, and wept until, from sheer exhaustion,
+I seemed to grow quiet at last, whilst the day-light faded away, and the
+faint flickering of the fire-light produced mysterious shadows on the
+ceiling, and made the things in the room assume to my fevered
+imagination weird and fanciful shapes.
+
+But there was a species of dim comfort in watching the fire; and a
+comfort, too, in spite of my misery, in the recollection that I had
+confessed my sin--that it was no longer a dread secret in my own sole
+keeping, but was shared by the strong, tender hearts, of my parents: and
+it seemed to come soothingly to my mind that now the barrier of sin
+might be taken away, and my heart rose once again in earnest prayer to
+God for forgiveness. Then I began to think about the great things of
+eternity my mother had spoken of; and of the meeting-time for those who
+were parted on earth, of Aleck, and of Old George, and his son--Ralph's
+father; and of what Groves said about the open book; and then came the
+recollection of the sea-stained little Testament, and the quaint verse
+at its beginning, and the young sailor's profession of faith, "Father,
+He died for me, I must live for Him." My mind travelled from one thought
+to another, whilst ever and anon a struggling sob for breath seemed like
+the subsiding of a tempest. Shaping themselves into more or less
+definite plans, came thoughts, too, of the future before me in this
+world:--I should never be quite happy any more, I thought; but I would
+try to keep on, like Ralph's father, living for Christ in some way, and
+grow up to be very good--perhaps I should be a missionary--I was not
+quite sure on the whole what sphere of life would be the most trying or
+praiseworthy--and then at last Aleck and I would meet in heaven. This I
+believe to have been the last point of conscious reflection, for more
+and more vague and desultory became my thoughts afterwards. Nature would
+have her revenge for all the restlessness and anxiety of the past few
+days. I fell into a profound sleep.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+SUNDAY EVENING.
+
+
+Where I was, why I was where I was, and what time of the day or night it
+might happen to be--were questions which presented themselves to my mind
+in hazy succession, as, roused from my slumbers by the hum of voices, I
+woke slowly to the consciousness that, though I had been asleep, I was
+not in bed. It was only by a very gradual process of recollection that
+the past came back upon me almost like a fresh story, and I was at least
+a minute rubbing my eyes, and collecting my thoughts, before I took in
+all the familiar objects in the room, from the sofa on which I found
+myself reposing, to the fire-place at which, with their backs turned to
+me, my father and Dr. Wilson were in close conversation. My father's
+voice was low and serious, and at the moment when, having finished the
+process of awakening, I was going to speak, his words came slowly and
+distinctly to my ears, and sank down into my heart:--
+
+"The thought of his parents' grief on hearing of the death--such a
+death, too!--of their only child, has been almost more than I could
+bear."
+
+Aleck was dead!--there was no hope left! I thought; and with a piteous
+exclamation of grief, I turned round and hid my face in my hands,
+leaning up against the sofa.
+
+In another moment my father was at my side. I felt his arm encircling me
+as he drew me towards him, and bending down, whispered softly,--
+
+"It is no time for grief now, Willie; I was speaking of what _might_
+have been; let us give God thanks, for the danger is over--Aleck is
+spared to us."
+
+I slowly drew back my hands from my face. The relief was so great I
+could scarcely believe in it; and I must have appeared--as I certainly
+felt--utterly bewildered, whilst I tried to find words, and only at last
+succeeded in repeating my father's mechanically:
+
+"The danger is over--Aleck is spared to us."
+
+"To be sure he is," said Dr. Wilson, in his cheeriest tones. He had got
+up from his chair, and was standing with his back to the fire looking at
+us. "Yes, he'll be quite well again by-and-by; and all the more prudent,
+we'll hope, for the trouble he's been putting us in during these last
+few days. He's had a lesson that ought to last for some time to come;
+but boys never learn their lessons, do what one will to make them."
+
+There was a moment's pause after this discouraging general statement
+with reference to boys; and then the doctor added, as if thinking to
+himself, in quite a different tone:
+
+"Poor boy! poor boy! it's been a very near thing. By the help of God,
+we've brought him through. May it be a life worth the saving--a life
+given back to God!"
+
+"Amen!" ejaculated my father, earnestly; and then, at his suggestion, we
+knelt together, and, in a few heartfelt words, he offered thanks to the
+heavenly Father for his goodness to us, and turned kind Dr. Wilson's
+aspiration into a prayer, that the life given back to my cousin might
+be by him given back to God.
+
+I knew, as I knelt there by my father's side, for the first time in my
+life, the feeling of a deep and speechless thankfulness, for which all
+words would be too poor.
+
+It was very late--past ten o'clock--but I was not allowed to go up to
+bed at once. Supper was ready, my father said, and I should come into
+the dining-room, and have it with him and Dr. Wilson. Accordingly, in
+spite of all remonstrances of nurse, who put in her appearance, and
+thought fit to reflect upon the utter impropriety of such late hours, I
+went to supper; and felt, moreover, greatly refreshed and strengthened
+by it, sitting there close by my father's side, and rejoicing every
+moment of the time in the feeling as of a great deliverance.
+
+So it came to pass that my second night did not begin until eleven
+o'clock.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+THE WHITE-ROCK COVE AGAIN.
+
+
+Aleck was a long time getting well. He had to be nursed and taken care
+of all through that winter, only gradually making little steps towards
+recovery.
+
+It was quite a festival when he was first carried down-stairs; and then
+again when he was taken out in the carriage for a drive, lying at full
+length upon a sort of couch which we erected for him, and to which he
+declared, in my anxiety to make him comfortable, I had contributed all
+the sofa cushions in the house.
+
+The subject of the lost ship was forbidden for a long while; and I grew
+to thinking of it as a sort of formidable undertaking, though one upon
+which I was firmly bent--the confession to Aleck himself of my guilt in
+the matter.
+
+But when at last I was permitted to approach the subject, I could only
+feel surprised that I had been for so long afraid of it. Aleck received
+my confession so quietly, instead of getting angry, and spoke so kindly
+and gently, that I could scarcely believe it was the same Aleck whose
+look of fiery indignation on that eventful morning of the 20th of
+September had so startled me.
+
+In one way, indeed, he was _not_ the same; for the accident, and illness
+consequent on it, seemed in some peculiar manner to have rendered him
+far more lovable and thoughtful than he had been formerly; a trifle
+graver, perhaps--at least I thought so, until, when he grew quite strong
+again, his merry laugh would ring out as cheerily as ever--and more
+serious in his way of looking at things, but not less happy. That I was
+sure of; for all through the long weeks of confinement there was not a
+brighter place in the house than the place at the side of his couch--he
+was so uniformly cheerful, and seemed so thoroughly to enjoy every
+little plan that we were able to form for his amusement.
+
+I told him I was quite surprised that he received my confession so
+gently; it would have been so natural if he had got angry. I remember
+his answer very well:--
+
+"Why, you see, Willie, it seems quite a little thing to me now. I don't
+think I can exactly put what I mean into words; but you know when I
+thought I was dying, and eternity seemed quite near, everything else
+seemed so little--only, the wrong words I had used to you seemed much
+worse than I had thought they could. Old George's words came back to me
+so often, about the loss of the ship being a very little thing; whilst
+wrong words and angry feelings would appear more terrible than we ever
+fancied possible. I was dreadfully frightened until I felt quite sure I
+was forgiven. You can't think how glad I was when I got your message."
+
+"I wanted to tell you," I said, "when I came into your room that time;
+but I couldn't speak, though I nearly choked in trying to stop crying."
+
+"Well since then," resumed Aleck, "the feeling doesn't seem to have gone
+off. I don't mean I don't care for things, because you know I like
+everything very much--our games, and the books, and madrepores; but I
+feel as if before my accident God and heaven and the Bible were all
+being put by, and got ready, for the time when one was old and grown up,
+and I've felt so different since then. It was when I felt so frightened
+at the thought of what a naughty boy I was, and of all the bad things I
+had done, and began to tell Jesus about it--in my heart, you know, for I
+couldn't speak--and remembered he was so good and kind he never turned
+any one away, and so felt sure he had heard me, that I began to think so
+differently."
+
+At this point of Aleck's narration I broke in impetuously with--
+
+"Oh, Aleck! for _you_ to be feeling like that--you, who had only felt
+angry--what would you have done if you had been me?" And then I
+proceeded, with feelings of unconcealed horror, to tell him of my misery
+during the few days succeeding the loss of the boat; the terrible walk
+home that morning; the lonely terrors of the nights; and my feelings at
+church with that verse always sounding in my ears, "If I regard iniquity
+in my heart, the Lord will not hear me."
+
+Before I had finished my story Aleck had got hold of one of my hands,
+and was stroking it as if he had been a girl. "You see," I said, "I was
+feeling rather like you, only I couldn't know I was forgiven, with that
+dreadful sin that no one knew of."
+
+"We had both done wrong," Aleck replied; "it doesn't much signify which
+of us was worst. Willie, do you know I want us always to do something
+together that we haven't done before."
+
+"What is it?" I inquired.
+
+"I should like us to read a little bit of the Bible together every day,
+quite for our own selves; not like a lesson, you know, nor even having
+auntie to explain it to us, but just for our own selves, like when I
+have one of papa's or mamma's letters to read. I think it would help us
+to remember the really great things better, like auntie's text in my
+room."
+
+I need scarcely say that the habit--afterwards continued, whenever
+practicable, through our school-life--was at once begun. In fact,
+Aleck's merest wish was a law to me; for all through the winter months
+every opportunity of rendering him any service was hailed with delight.
+I could never forget that his weakness and suffering were the result of
+my wicked behaviour, and could only comfort myself by doing all that in
+me lay to make his confinement as little wearisome as possible. Knowing
+his active, restless nature, I could fully appreciate what the trial
+must be, even with every alleviation, and often wondered he was able to
+bear it so cheerfully.
+
+But when I ventured to express to my cousin these speculations of mine,
+he would laugh them off merrily.
+
+"Why, Willie, how can I help being thankful and happy? Not to speak of
+uncle and aunt, who seem to be doing something for me every hour of the
+day; nor of old George, who toils up every morning to see me, though he
+used to tell me that it made his old bones ache--a fact he will never
+allow now; nor of Frisk, who sits upon my feet for hours, on purpose to
+keep them warm; I should like to know how I could help being cheerful,
+with your own dear old self giving up the greater part of your play-time
+to chess, or carpentry, or madrepores, and spending every penny of your
+pocket-money--No; it's of no use your stopping me to deny it. I've
+counted up, and you've spent every penny of your pocket-money--just as I
+was saying--in buying books, or tools, or things for me; waiting upon
+me, too, as if I were a prince and you my slave. Why, I'm perfectly
+afraid of admiring anything you have, lest I should find it done up in a
+parcel, and sent to me, like the illustrated copy of 'Robinson Crusoe'
+the other day!"
+
+In this sort of grateful spirit, making much of all my little trifling
+acts of kindness, Aleck scarcely allowed us to feel that he was
+under-going any deprivation during the months that he lay on the sofa.
+
+Once only I remember noticing a little cloud, that vanished again almost
+as soon as it appeared. One morning, after lessons were over, I came
+running into the study with my Latin exercise.
+
+"Papa, Mr. Glengelly was so pleased with my exercise, he has sent me in
+to show it to you."
+
+My father looked over it, reading little bits aloud, and finding with
+surprise that, difficult though it was, there were no mistakes. From my
+father's table I flew to the sofa on which Aleck was lying, with Frisk
+at his feet as usual, the open copy-book in my hand. But in an instant I
+could see there was some trouble in my cousin's face.
+
+"Aleck, dear Aleck," I whispered anxiously, "what is it? Have I done
+anything?"
+
+"No--nothing at all," replied my cousin with a great effort, and hastily
+brushing away his tears. "Let me have a look at it too. I'm ashamed of
+myself, Willie. I believe I was making myself unhappy at thinking that I
+shall just have gone back as much as you've gone forward. I didn't know
+I cared so much for being first in my lessons."
+
+After that I avoided ever talking of my lessons when Aleck was in the
+room; but he noticed this, and insisted on introducing the subject,
+speaking often to Mr. Glengelly about my progress, and looking over my
+exercises from time to time, whilst he would playfully remark that "we
+should be about equal when he was allowed to begin lessons again, and
+better companions than ever before."
+
+Sometimes he wondered at my getting on so much faster than formerly, not
+knowing the spirit of resolve and determination that had grown out of
+all the sad time of trouble, when I had found out for the first time
+what a poor sinful child I was, and had learned to seek and find for
+myself the sure Refuge and Strength--not for times of trouble only, but
+for the whole of life's journey.
+
+From the circumstance of my play-time being in great part spent with my
+cousin, at least such part of it as was not taken up in rides or drives
+with my parents, it came to pass that my visits to the Cove were far
+less frequent than they had been at any previous time. But though old
+George growled and grumbled at seeing so little of me, he always
+encouraged me not to desert my cousin.
+
+Now and then, however, I found my way down the Zig-zag to the lodge, and
+it was upon one of these occasions that I unburdened my mind to my old
+friend of a desire, which grew and strengthened upon me, in some way to
+provide for Aleck a boat which should be quite equal to the one he had
+lost. I knew it was worth a great deal more than I should be able to
+save in pocket-money, and a vague idea of the possibility of bartering
+some of my possessions had been dismissed as impracticable.
+
+To part with the "Fair Alice" without old George's sanction would not be
+right, but if he would make no objection, it seemed to me that this
+would be on the whole the easiest mode of reparation, and I took him
+into consultation on the subject accordingly.
+
+"I know it's your present to me, George," I said, feeling sadly alive to
+the delicacy of the request; "but if you'll give me leave, I think it's
+the only thing I have that would do to give Aleck. I can't think of any
+other way. I know it took you a tremendous time to make, and I care for
+it more than for anything. But I would rather give it to Aleck."
+
+Old George chuckled rather provokingly, and seemed to be taken up with
+some abstruse calculation. "Well, I won't be against it, Master Aleck,"
+he said, "unless--no--I'm not sure--" (the old man seemed to grow quite
+composed in his uncertainty), "I think--I may show you." And so saying
+he led the way into the work-shop.
+
+I started with surprise--another little schooner-yacht was in course of
+construction, precisely similar to the one that had been lost.
+
+"O George, how kind!"
+
+"No; it's not a bit kind," responded George, "for I'm being paid for it.
+I meant to have done it without, but your papa, sir, has insisted upon
+it being his order, and I've been obliged to cave in."
+
+It was to be a secret from Aleck, however.
+
+How hard it was to keep that secret, when, every time there was a talk
+of Aleck's being able to get down to the Cove, I was on the point of
+letting out what he was to see there!
+
+I did contrive to keep it, however; and when at last February was
+ushered in with a burst of warm weather that tempted all the little buds
+to unfold themselves with a perfectly reckless disregard of the cold
+that was sure to follow, and primroses and violets to start into blossom
+as though they could not lay the bright carpet for spring's advance too
+soon, Dr. Wilson decreed that nothing would do his little patient more
+good than a couple of hours of the freshest sea breezes, caught and
+partaken of on the spot, a mile off from shore;--which meant that Aleck
+had leave to go to the Cove once more, and out upon the sea for a sail.
+
+Of course I had a whole holiday for the occasion; and I had satisfaction
+in observing that I was not the only one unable to settle down into
+quiet occupation. The carriage was nearly ready to drive my parents and
+Aleck down to the lodge, when I started off by way of the Zig-zag, to
+the Cove.
+
+There was the new yacht, already decked from bow to stern with the tiny
+flags which I had been collecting for weeks past. All the sails were
+set, but a little anchor--also my addition to the furniture of the new
+vessel--kept her safely moored; and as she curtsied upon the water,
+every sail and flag reflected as in a mirror, I thought I had never seen
+anything so pretty.
+
+Perhaps Aleck thought so too, for when he arrived a few minutes after,
+leaning on my father's arm, he seemed as if he could not speak, and had
+to sit down quite quietly in the boat whilst he drew the yacht close up
+to the side, and looked at it all over. Then he turned to my father,
+and said something about not being able to thank--and at this point
+broke down in a manner that was so singularly infectious, that no one
+was found able to break the silence at first.
+
+My father said presently, however, "You must carry him off to sea,
+George; and I shall call you to account if those pale cheeks don't
+gather roses from the crests of the waves."
+
+Then we drew up the anchor of the little yacht, and pushed off from the
+shore. A basket of provisions had been placed in the boat, and before we
+had been very long out at sea, George insisted upon its being unpacked,
+threatening Aleck that he should be reported as insubordinate unless he
+consumed precisely the quantity of wine and the whole amount of cold
+chicken dealt out to him.
+
+"Willie," whispered my cousin to me, after dutifully doing his best at
+the luncheon, "I want very much indeed to go to the White-Rock Cove--do
+you think George will let us?"
+
+Certainly I did _not_ think so, but Aleck wished it, and that was quite
+enough to make me join earnestly in his entreaties that we should turn
+the boat's head round in the direction he wished.
+
+Groves consented at last, but not without many misgivings, the
+White-Rock Cove being, he said, about the last place he'd have thought
+of taking us to; and sentiments to the same effect were respectfully
+echoed by Ralph, who, in my private belief, had held the place in
+superstitious horror ever since the 20th of September.
+
+All of us, however, yielded as a matter of course when it was found
+Aleck had set his mind upon it; and the wind being favourable, we were
+not very long in rounding Braycombe headland.
+
+Once in the Cove, my cousin asked me to land with him, requesting George
+and Ralph to leave us ashore a little while.
+
+"It must have been almost exactly here, I think," said Aleck, leading
+the way to the spot which I remembered only too vividly, and glancing
+round to assure himself that our companions were out of sight. "Willie,
+I want us to thank God here, on the very spot--there's no one to see
+us--let us kneel down."
+
+We knelt together at the foot of the White Rock; Aleck, who was still
+very weak, leaning against me for support. They were only a few childish
+words he said, but they came from a full heart; and I never remember in
+later life any liturgical service in church or cathedral that stirred my
+feelings more deeply than that simple thanksgiving. Nor even now, after
+the lapse of many a long year, can I visit that little retired nook in
+the dear Braycombe coast, and hear the plash of the ripple, and the flap
+of the sea-gulls' wings, and the echoing murmurs of the sea in the
+caverns, without being carried back by a rush of tender recollection to
+that day when all Nature's sweet voices seemed to be uniting in one hymn
+of praise, taking up and beautifying and repeating the utterance of two
+little thankful hearts--
+
+"We praise Thee, O God."
+
+
+THE END
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Story of the White-Rock Cove, by Anonymous
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE STORY OF THE WHITE-ROCK COVE ***
+
+***** This file should be named 22404.txt or 22404.zip *****
+This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:
+        http://www.gutenberg.org/2/2/4/0/22404/
+
+Produced by Marilynda Fraser-Cunliffe, Mary Meehan and the
+Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+(This file was made using scans of public domain works in
+the International Children's Digital Library.)
+
+
+Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions
+will be renamed.
+
+Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no
+one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation
+(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without
+permission and without paying copyright royalties.  Special rules,
+set forth in the General Terms of Use part of this license, apply to
+copying and distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works to
+protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm concept and trademark.  Project
+Gutenberg is a registered trademark, and may not be used if you
+charge for the eBooks, unless you receive specific permission.  If you
+do not charge anything for copies of this eBook, complying with the
+rules is very easy.  You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose
+such as creation of derivative works, reports, performances and
+research.  They may be modified and printed and given away--you may do
+practically ANYTHING with public domain eBooks.  Redistribution is
+subject to the trademark license, especially commercial
+redistribution.
+
+
+
+*** START: FULL LICENSE ***
+
+THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE
+PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK
+
+To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free
+distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work
+(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project
+Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full Project
+Gutenberg-tm License (available with this file or online at
+http://gutenberg.org/license).
+
+
+Section 1.  General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic works
+
+1.A.  By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to
+and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property
+(trademark/copyright) agreement.  If you do not agree to abide by all
+the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or destroy
+all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your possession.
+If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound by the
+terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person or
+entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8.
+
+1.B.  "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark.  It may only be
+used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who
+agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement.  There are a few
+things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works
+even without complying with the full terms of this agreement.  See
+paragraph 1.C below.  There are a lot of things you can do with Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this agreement
+and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works.  See paragraph 1.E below.
+
+1.C.  The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the Foundation"
+or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection of Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic works.  Nearly all the individual works in the
+collection are in the public domain in the United States.  If an
+individual work is in the public domain in the United States and you are
+located in the United States, we do not claim a right to prevent you from
+copying, distributing, performing, displaying or creating derivative
+works based on the work as long as all references to Project Gutenberg
+are removed.  Of course, we hope that you will support the Project
+Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting free access to electronic works by
+freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm works in compliance with the terms of
+this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with
+the work.  You can easily comply with the terms of this agreement by
+keeping this work in the same format with its attached full Project
+Gutenberg-tm License when you share it without charge with others.
+
+1.D.  The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern
+what you can do with this work.  Copyright laws in most countries are in
+a constant state of change.  If you are outside the United States, check
+the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this agreement
+before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, distributing or
+creating derivative works based on this work or any other Project
+Gutenberg-tm work.  The Foundation makes no representations concerning
+the copyright status of any work in any country outside the United
+States.
+
+1.E.  Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg:
+
+1.E.1.  The following sentence, with active links to, or other immediate
+access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear prominently
+whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work on which the
+phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the phrase "Project
+Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, performed, viewed,
+copied or distributed:
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+1.E.2.  If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is derived
+from the public domain (does not contain a notice indicating that it is
+posted with permission of the copyright holder), the work can be copied
+and distributed to anyone in the United States without paying any fees
+or charges.  If you are redistributing or providing access to a work
+with the phrase "Project Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the
+work, you must comply either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1
+through 1.E.7 or obtain permission for the use of the work and the
+Project Gutenberg-tm trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or
+1.E.9.
+
+1.E.3.  If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted
+with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution
+must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any additional
+terms imposed by the copyright holder.  Additional terms will be linked
+to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works posted with the
+permission of the copyright holder found at the beginning of this work.
+
+1.E.4.  Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this
+work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm.
+
+1.E.5.  Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this
+electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without
+prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with
+active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project
+Gutenberg-tm License.
+
+1.E.6.  You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary,
+compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including any
+word processing or hypertext form.  However, if you provide access to or
+distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format other than
+"Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official version
+posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm web site (www.gutenberg.org),
+you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense to the user, provide a
+copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means of obtaining a copy upon
+request, of the work in its original "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other
+form.  Any alternate format must include the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1.
+
+1.E.7.  Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying,
+performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works
+unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9.
+
+1.E.8.  You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing
+access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works provided
+that
+
+- You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from
+     the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method
+     you already use to calculate your applicable taxes.  The fee is
+     owed to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he
+     has agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the
+     Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation.  Royalty payments
+     must be paid within 60 days following each date on which you
+     prepare (or are legally required to prepare) your periodic tax
+     returns.  Royalty payments should be clearly marked as such and
+     sent to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the
+     address specified in Section 4, "Information about donations to
+     the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation."
+
+- You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies
+     you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he
+     does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm
+     License.  You must require such a user to return or
+     destroy all copies of the works possessed in a physical medium
+     and discontinue all use of and all access to other copies of
+     Project Gutenberg-tm works.
+
+- You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of any
+     money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the
+     electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days
+     of receipt of the work.
+
+- You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free
+     distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works.
+
+1.E.9.  If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project Gutenberg-tm
+electronic work or group of works on different terms than are set
+forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing from
+both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and Michael
+Hart, the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark.  Contact the
+Foundation as set forth in Section 3 below.
+
+1.F.
+
+1.F.1.  Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable
+effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread
+public domain works in creating the Project Gutenberg-tm
+collection.  Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may contain
+"Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate or
+corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other intellectual
+property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or other medium, a
+computer virus, or computer codes that damage or cannot be read by
+your equipment.
+
+1.F.2.  LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right
+of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project
+Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project
+Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all
+liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal
+fees.  YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT
+LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE
+PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH F3.  YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE
+TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE
+LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR
+INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH
+DAMAGE.
+
+1.F.3.  LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a
+defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can
+receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a
+written explanation to the person you received the work from.  If you
+received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium with
+your written explanation.  The person or entity that provided you with
+the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in lieu of a
+refund.  If you received the work electronically, the person or entity
+providing it to you may choose to give you a second opportunity to
+receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund.  If the second copy
+is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing without further
+opportunities to fix the problem.
+
+1.F.4.  Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth
+in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS' WITH NO OTHER
+WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO
+WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTIBILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE.
+
+1.F.5.  Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied
+warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of damages.
+If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement violates the
+law of the state applicable to this agreement, the agreement shall be
+interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or limitation permitted by
+the applicable state law.  The invalidity or unenforceability of any
+provision of this agreement shall not void the remaining provisions.
+
+1.F.6.  INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the
+trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone
+providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in accordance
+with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the production,
+promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works,
+harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, including legal fees,
+that arise directly or indirectly from any of the following which you do
+or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this or any Project Gutenberg-tm
+work, (b) alteration, modification, or additions or deletions to any
+Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any Defect you cause.
+
+
+Section  2.  Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of
+electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of computers
+including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers.  It exists
+because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations from
+people in all walks of life.
+
+Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the
+assistance they need, is critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's
+goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will
+remain freely available for generations to come.  In 2001, the Project
+Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure
+and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future generations.
+To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation
+and how your efforts and donations can help, see Sections 3 and 4
+and the Foundation web page at http://www.pglaf.org.
+
+
+Section 3.  Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive
+Foundation
+
+The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit
+501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the
+state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal
+Revenue Service.  The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification
+number is 64-6221541.  Its 501(c)(3) letter is posted at
+http://pglaf.org/fundraising.  Contributions to the Project Gutenberg
+Literary Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent
+permitted by U.S. federal laws and your state's laws.
+
+The Foundation's principal office is located at 4557 Melan Dr. S.
+Fairbanks, AK, 99712., but its volunteers and employees are scattered
+throughout numerous locations.  Its business office is located at
+809 North 1500 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887, email
+business@pglaf.org.  Email contact links and up to date contact
+information can be found at the Foundation's web site and official
+page at http://pglaf.org
+
+For additional contact information:
+     Dr. Gregory B. Newby
+     Chief Executive and Director
+     gbnewby@pglaf.org
+
+
+Section 4.  Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg
+Literary Archive Foundation
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide
+spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of
+increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be
+freely distributed in machine readable form accessible by the widest
+array of equipment including outdated equipment.  Many small donations
+($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt
+status with the IRS.
+
+The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating
+charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United
+States.  Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a
+considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up
+with these requirements.  We do not solicit donations in locations
+where we have not received written confirmation of compliance.  To
+SEND DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any
+particular state visit http://pglaf.org
+
+While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we
+have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition
+against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who
+approach us with offers to donate.
+
+International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make
+any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from
+outside the United States.  U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff.
+
+Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation
+methods and addresses.  Donations are accepted in a number of other
+ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations.
+To donate, please visit: http://pglaf.org/donate
+
+
+Section 5.  General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic
+works.
+
+Professor Michael S. Hart is the originator of the Project Gutenberg-tm
+concept of a library of electronic works that could be freely shared
+with anyone.  For thirty years, he produced and distributed Project
+Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of volunteer support.
+
+
+Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed
+editions, all of which are confirmed as Public Domain in the U.S.
+unless a copyright notice is included.  Thus, we do not necessarily
+keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition.
+
+
+Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility:
+
+     http://www.gutenberg.org
+
+This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm,
+including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary
+Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to
+subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks.
diff --git a/22404.zip b/22404.zip
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..860b964
--- /dev/null
+++ b/22404.zip
diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..6312041
--- /dev/null
+++ b/LICENSE.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,11 @@
+This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements,
+metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be
+in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES.
+
+Procedures for determining public domain status are described in
+the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org.
+
+No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in
+jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize
+this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright
+status under the laws that apply to them.
diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..8ca71eb
--- /dev/null
+++ b/README.md
@@ -0,0 +1,2 @@
+Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for
+eBook #22404 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/22404)