EDDY IN LOVE'S CURRENT The next morning shone bright and clear, if ever a March morning did.

The beguiling month was coming in like a lamb, with whatever storms it might go raging out.

It was long since Philip had tasted the freshness of the early air on the shore, or in the country, as his employment at the shop detained him in Monkshaven till the evening.

And as he turned down the quays (or staithes) on the north side of the river, towards the shore, and met the fresh sea-breeze blowing right in his face, it was impossible not to feel bright and elastic.

With his knapsack slung over his shoulder, he was prepared for a good stretch towards Hartlepool, whence a coach would take him to Newcastle before night.