I shall go to work and unravel her.' At that moment the female of whom they were speaking got up from her seat on one of the spars which was bound upon the deck, folded up her work, and walked away.

She was a remarkable woman, and certainly looked to be better than her gown, which was old and common enough.

Caldigate had observed her frequently, and had been much struck by the word or two she had spoken to him on the preceding day.

'I should like ship-life well enough,' she had said, in answer to some ordinary question, 'if it led to nothing else.' 'You would not remain here for ever ?' 'Certainly, if I could.

There is plenty to eat, and a bed to sleep on, and no one to be afraid of.