lated
the city, and seemed to enjoy the magnificent spectacle presented by
Antwerp when seen at a distance, and which, with its lofty towers and
splendid edifices, rose from the river like another Venice.

Suddenly Geronimo rose and pointed in the distance, exclaiming, joyously,
"See, the _Il Salvatore!_"

Mary, glancing around, eagerly asked: "Where? Is it the vessel bearing a
red cross on its flag?"

"No, Mary, it is behind the ships of war; it is that large vessel with
three masts--on its flag is a picture of the Saviour: _Il Salvatore_."

While the gondola rapidly sped on its way, the eyes of all were fixed upon
the galley, in order, if possible, to distinguish the features of those
who stood on deck.

Suddenly Geronimo clapped his hands, exclaiming, "God be praised! I see my
uncle."

"Which is he?" inquired Mr. Van de Werve.

The young man replied, joyously: "Do you not see standing on the
forecastle five or six passengers who wear parti-colored dresses, with
plumed hats? In the midst of them is a man of lofty stature, completely
enveloped in a brown cloak. He has long white hair, and his silvery beard
looks like snow-flakes resting on his dark mantle. That is my old uncle,
Signor Deodati."

"What a superb-looking old man!" exclaimed Mary, in admiration.

"In truth," said Mr. Van de Werve, "as well as I can judge at this
distance, his appearance is very striking."

"My uncle inspires respect wherever he goes," said the young man,
enthusiastically. "His sixty-five years appear on his brow as an aureola
of experience and wisdom; he is learned, good, and generous."

And waving his hat, he cried out: "Ah, he recognizes us! He salutes us; he
smiles. At last I see him after four years of separation. My God, I thank
thee for having protected him!"

The young man's joy was so great that Mary and her father were also moved.

"So lively an affection for your uncle does you credit, Geronimo," said
Mr. Van de Werve. "God loves a grateful heart; may He grant you to-day the
desires of your heart!"

But the young man did not hear these words of encouragement; standing in
the gondola, he waved to his uncle as if endeavoring to express to him by
signs his joy at seeing him.

The gondola approached the galley, which slowly ascended the Scheldt in a
favorable wind and with a rising tide.

The light boat soon gained the large ship. Before the ladder was lowered,
Geronimo caught the cable of the galley, and ere Mary