I knelt on the damp, glistening deck, and implored Almighty God to register my words in heaven.

In his awful name and presence, I solemnly swore to love Dudley Stewart alone--to be his wife, or go down to the tomb as Florence Hamilton.

I rose up calm--the fierce warring was stilled.

Yet it was not inward peace that succeeded.

My fate was sealed--the last page of destiny transcribed.
"Time passed on, oblivious of the darkened hours it bore on its broad bosom.