good blow from yonder mountains and we should be well clear
of this coast," he said.

"Do you think, Captain Weber, the fellow dare attack us again after the
taste he had of our quality last night?" inquired the mate.

"If the scoundrels could get possession of the brig, they would soon
find the means to arm her," replied the captain; "and the west coast of
Madagascar is one series of indentations, coves, and bays, fit refuges
for these sort of craft."

"The clouds are resting on the top of the mountain range, sir; I fancy
we shall have more wind just now. How far do you reckon we are from
land?"

"About ten miles," replied the captain. "Turn the hands up on deck, Mr
Lowe. Haul up the mainsail, the brig has hardly way on her, and send
the men aft. We must bury our dead."

The moon was low on the horizon, shedding a dim light on the ocean, and
making the long line of the Madagascar coast look black and indistinct
as if seen through a haze.

Soon ranged, side by side, on a grating abaft the main chains, lay five
forms covered with the ship's ensign. On the quarter-deck stood the
passengers and the remainder of the crew, while the missionary, in a
clear distinct voice, read slowly the impressive burial service. All
were uncovered, and the tears streamed down Isabel's face, as she looked
on the inanimate forms of the brave fellows who had died to save her
from worse than death. The captain laid his hand on the Union Jack, the
mate made a sign, and four sturdy men advanced, placing their shoulders
under the grating. "We commit their bodies to the deep, in the sure and
certain hope of resurrection to eternal life," and as the solemn words
rang out on the night air, the splash of the falling bodies in the sea
followed. A stillness seemed to gather around, and the service for the
dead finished, the crew retired to their different duties, for the time,
at least, saddened and depressed, and the quarter-deck was soon left to
the captain and his mate.

Slowly they paced it to and fro in eager but low conversation. The
puffs of wind came down a little steadier, and the "Halcyon" was moving
through the water once more. The night was beautifully fine, the stars
shining brilliantly, but the moon just sinking behind a distant spit of
land broad on the larboard bow. From time to time the sound of the
ship's bell, tolling the hour, was heard, the creaking of the blocks and
ropes, and the mournful flap of the sails as t