It had never even seemed an act of mercy to me.
But now it did, as the full truth suddenly came home, that I could buy my freedom.

God! what a relief; I stood up straight once more in the stature of a man.

I hardly know what wild words I might have spoken had the opportunity been mine; but at that instant the figure of a man crossed the deck toward us, emerging from the open cabin door.

Against the gleam of yellow light I recognized the trim form advancing, and as instantly stepped back into shadow.

My quick movement caused her to turn, and face him.
"What!" he exclaimed, and evidently surprised at his discovery.