Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/165

Rh seemed never weary: long before her brother's shy temper would permit him to speak, she had made friends with every seaman on board. There are few boys but what are born with a love for a ship and a horse; and, thanks to the kindness of the old sailor we have mentioned, Frank was soon initiated into every part of the vessel, and his steps became familiar with the most dangerous parts of the rigging.

But no attraction, whether of amusement, or information, ever diverted his attention from his sister. His eye seemed always upon her; he would give up any employment to attend to her want or wish: he would spend hours amusing her with her box of ivory letters; and not an evening passed but her sweet voice might be heard repeating to her brother her simple prayer and hymn. Already Frank shewed a naturally mechanical genius; but even the carpenter's chest and company never detained him long from Marion, and the great aim of his ingenuity was to construct some slight toy for her. They had now been on board four weeks; and often did Frank wish his father could have seen the light step and bright eyes of the once pale and listless Marion. One evening Frank came up from