ome other reason.

At all events, it was strange how seldom she brought Scripture
phrases into her conversation with him. She tolerated, indeed she
sometimes even smiled at the gallant captain's pleasantries, when
they were of a harmless sort.

After she had spoken a few words of welcome, and chatted with him on
sundry matters which had occurred during his absence, she concluded
by asking whether, as he was alone, he would come to supper at her
house. It would greatly please her daughters.

"Anybody else coming?" inquired Worse, suspiciously.

"Possibly two or three of the Brethren might drop in on their way
back from meeting."

"Thank you, indeed," muttered the skipper, with some signs of
irritation; "but you know that I am not fit for such company,
madame."

"Do not say so, Captain Worse; let us rather hope that you may be
fitted for company where the word of God is heard." This she said
with much cordiality, at the same time watching him closely.

Skipper Worse was a little embarrassed, and paced round the room. It
was not easy to give an answer; he could not abide her meetings, but
he was at a loss for a decent excuse.

At this moment Lauritz rose from his chair, and made as if he would
take his departure.

"No, no, Lauritz!" cried the captain; "you can't leave yet. We must
have a word or two together. Where are you bound?"

"I must go to the town and seek lodgings for the night," answered
Lauritz, gloomily, but still a little emboldened by the cherry brandy
he had drunk.

"What! aren't you going to lodge at Madame Torvestad's? Can't he,
madame?"

"No," she replied drily. "You know that those who lodge with me are
chiefly religious persons. I do not take in sailors."

"Yes; but your house has hitherto been like a home to Lauritz. It is
hard for the poor lad on his return to find himself turned out into
the street."

Worse now understood the young man's troubles, and, in his good
nature, would willingly endeavour to help him. But Madame Torvestad
made no response; she gathered up the folds of her cloak and prepared
to depart.

"Well, good-bye, Captain Worse," said she; "I am heartily glad to
welcome you home again. In half an hour or so I expect Sarah and a
few friends from the meeting. Do you feel no inclination to join
them, and to offer thanks to Him who has protected you in the
tempest, and has brought you home unhurt over the stormy sea?"

"Yes, yes--of course, madame; you see--but--" and