Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/166

160 the cabin, where he had been soothing his sister, who was somewhat restless with the oppressive heat, to sleep; and took his usual post beside the old sailor, who, from the first, had made him an especial favourite. Nothing could be clearer than the atmosphere, and the sea was almost as bright and motionless as the sky. Not a single object broke the mighty stillness; no fish were visible in the clear waters, no birds in the clear air; not another bark shared the ocean with their solitary ship. No wind was stirring, the sails hung loose and motionless, and the red flag drooped heavily from the mast. The sailors shared in the general tranquillity, and sat or stood round in silent groups; the oppression of the air seemed also on their spirits. The old seaman, to whom Frank had drawn, was leaning over the side of the vessel, gazing so intently on the distance that his young companion's approach was at first unobserved; when, suddenly turning round, he said, "We shall have rough weather soon, Master Francis." The boy looked on the shining elements around, as much as to ask where was the slightest sign of storm? When the sailor, answering to his gaze, pointed out a small white cloud, or rather speck, which looked as if scarcely freighted with an April shower.