Page:Traits and Trials.pdf/188

182 The blessing of God had been upon their plan: one of the bottles had been picked up at sea, and forwarded to Mr. Selwyn, who lost not a moment in hastening to the place indicated. A little assistance allayed the pain of Frank's ankle; and a sort of hand-barrow was soon formed. He was seated on it, and carried in triumph by the sailors; for not one but shared in the admiration excited by the resolution and the resources he had displayed. Little Marion in her robe of parti-coloured feathers, and her hat of palm-leaves, was for the next two days her father's guide. It will readily be believed with what interest every spot in the island was visited. At Frank's earnest desire, a large wooden cross was placed over Michael's grave; and there (for a few days rest and care restored the use of his ankle; and during those few days the ship was taking in fresh water) he and Marion paid their last visit.

The voyage was unmarked by any adventure; and, with no ordinary feelings of thankfulness, Mr. Selwyn found himself once more in his native land, and with his children at his side. It will be readily supposed that the first employment of the Selwyns was to find out Philip Michael. To oblige Francis, they themselves went to Southampton, where they