Page:In the Roar of the Sea.djvu/288

280 to a wreck that has been cast on Doom Bar, to help to save the unfortunate, and save what they value equally with their lives—their goods, and he was washed overboard. Fell into the sea, and was dashed against that boat. Yes—he is injured. No bones broken this time. This time he had to do with the sea and with men. But he is badly bruised. Go on," she said to those who were conveying Coppinger. "He is in pain, do you not see this as you stand here? Lay him on his bed, and remove his clothes. He is drenched to the skin. I will brew him a posset."

"May I help you, aunt?"

"I can do it myself."

Judith remained with Miss Trevisa. She said nothing to her till the posset was ready. Then she offered to carry it to her husband.

"As you will—here it is," said Aunt Dionysia.

Thereupon Judith took the draught, and went with it to Captain Coppinger's room. He was in his bed. No one was with him, but a candle burned on the table.

"You have come to me, Judith?" he said with glad surprise.

"Yes—I have brought you the posset. Drink it out to the last drop."

She handed it to him; and he took the hot caudle.

"I need not finish the bowl?" he asked.

"Yes—to the last drop."

He complied, and then suddenly withdrew the vessel from his lips. "What is this—at the bottom?—a, ring?" He extracted a plain gold ring from the bowl.

"What is the meaning of this? It is a wedding-ring."

"Yes—mine."

"It is early to lose it."

"I threw it in."

"You—Judith—why?"

"I return it to you."

He raised himself on one elbow and looked at her fixedly with threatening eyes.

"What is the meaning of this?"

"That ring was put on my finger when I was unconscious. Wait till I accept it freely."

"But—Judith—the wedding is over."

"Only a half wedding."