'I have come here to offer thanks for my narrow escape from shipwreck.

I am given to understand that it is a proper thing to do, if you have no objection ?' The parson, after a moment's pause, said hesitatingly, 'I have no objection; certainly.

It is usual to mention any such wish before service, so that the proper words may be used in the General Thanksgiving.

But, if you wish, we can read from the form for use after a storm at sea.' 'Ay, sure; I ain't particular,' said the sailor.
The clerk thereupon directed the sailor to the page in the prayer-book where the collect of thanksgiving would be found, and the rector began reading it, the sailor kneeling where he stood, and repeating it after him word by word in a distinct voice.

The people, who had remained agape and motionless at the proceeding, mechanically knelt down likewise; but they continued to regard the isolated form of the sailor who, in the precise middle of the chancel-step, remained fixed on his knees, facing the east, his hat beside him, his hands joined, and he quite unconscious of his appearance in their regard.
When his thanksgiving had come to an end he rose; the people rose also, and all went out of church together.