NAMPANG ISLAND. 45

“T hope your troubles are over now,” was all he could
think of at the time, and then, conscious of the fact that
he was appearing very ill at ease, not as should the com-
mander of a vessel, he added, “I think my first duty is to
inspect the brig, with a view of ascertaining her condition
for a run up the coast, and also question the steward as
to the supplies on board.” If you will excuse me, I will
set about it at once.”

“Let me go with you,” she said, quickly. “It is such
a blessed relief, after these days of terrible anxiety, to
have some one with whom I can speak.”

Ben was on the point of saying something about the
good fortune of a young captain in having such a charm-
ing mate to accompany him on a tour of inspection; but
he checked himself as he realised that neither the length
of their acquaintance nor the circumstances would
warrant anything of the kind.