In time I came to recognize them all by sight, and learned, in one way or another, something of their characteristics, and purpose in taking this voyage.

They were not an unusual lot, the majority planters from the Colonies homeward bound, with occasionally a new emigrant about to try for fortune beyond seas, together with one or two naval officers.

There were only three women aboard, a fat dowager, the young lady I had noticed at embarkation, and her colored maid.

Many of the days were pleasant, with quiet sea and bright sunshine, and the younger woman must have passed hours on deck during so long and tedious a voyage.

Yet it chanced I saw almost nothing of her.