Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/187

Rh husbanded carefully in case of an emergency. With great joy did both the children watch the abating rains; and the first day they could get as far as the palm-trees was one of absolute festivity.

They had been a year and three months on the island, when, one day, as Francis was climbing a tamarind tree, the branches on which he stood gave way: he was precipitated to the ground, and sprained his ankle. For the first time Frank thought their situation hopeless; their little garden must now remain uncultivated, their fruit ungathered, and unfortunately, the accident had happened at a considerable distance from home.

"Marion, my poor little sister!" exclaimed he, leaning his face on her shoulder, while he felt the large tears of the affectionate child falling on his hand. Both started; for at that moment they most assuredly heard the sound of voices. Frank sprang to his feet, but the pain was excruciating, and he sank on the grass. Voices were again heard, when, joining his hands together, so as to convey the sound farther, he gave a loud shout. It was answered; figures appeared among the trees, and in another moment they were in the arms of their father.