They tried hard to comfort her; and in trying, learned to love her; they could not help it, seeing how she clung, to them and put her arms about their necks and found-no solace but in their kind eyes and comforting words: There was a question in both their hearts--a question that rose up and asserted itself with more and more pertinacity as the hours wore on--but both hesitated to give it voice--both kept silence -- and--waited.

But a time came at last when the matter would bear delay no longer.

The boat had landed, and the dead and the wounded were being conveyed to the shore.

The tired child was asleep in the arms of Mrs.
Hawkins.

Mr.Hawkins came into their presence and stood without speaking.