Page:The Wreck of a World - Grove - 1890.djvu/66

50 the end of the fourth I was almost in despair. But with the dawn of the 25th despair was turned to triumph as I saw Gell's boat, the "Bâton Rouge," steam up with colours flying, followed by six fine vessels of the largest size.

Gell reported that they had found St. Louis quite deserted, the only living thing being a poor little child of six, half starved, who was discovered lying upon the quay, and who had said, crying bitterly, that its father had told it to wait there until he returned. They had brought the little waif with them, and it was much petted by the crew. It was evident that the emigration had taken place a very few days previous. The houses and shops were full of wares, and Gell had very wisely spent a day in loading the vessels with such provisions as seemed most likely to prove useful. More time had been occupied in overhauling the machinery of the steamers, and the best part of twenty four hours had been consumed on the return journey.

And now preparations began in earnest. Orders were sent round the town that each citizen should take on board the vessel to which he was assigned all such