CHAPTER XVIII.
SIR HOWARD DOUGLAS.
In order to follow up the brilliant career of this great man while connected with the administration of New Brunswick, we will endeavor to give a few facts to prove the marvellous ability he displayed in carrying out his plans.
On the passage homeward Sir Howard and family encountered many dangers.
During the whole voyage there was kept up a constant gale, sometimes threatening the destruction of the rudely constructed brig of war named the _Mutine_.

Amidst these daily mishaps and perilous exposures the Douglas family maintained the utmost self-possession.

Sir Howard was always ready to offer advice and assistance with a coolness that nerved the whole crew, and gave fresh hopes at the darkest moments.

During the six weeks that elapsed, while braving the dangers of the deep, Mary Douglas never lost an opportunity to make the most of the occasion.

She became interested in the stormy elements, learning lessons that served her to breast the struggling conflicts of life.