cks and wild
uncultivated hills on the opposite side, of the river, the shipping at
anchor, with vessels and boats decked with gay flags constantly moving
up and down the stream, were picturesque and attractive, and afforded an
object of interest to the numerous guests whom the hospitable owner was
wont to entertain at his house. The place was laid out more according
to Dutch than English taste, and of course was especially admired by the
natives of Holland, among whom the firm of Ferris, Twigg, and Cash had
extensive connections, as well as with the West Indies, to which part of
the world they chiefly traded. The _Ouzel Galley_ was only one of the
numerous vessels owned by the firm, and all being strongly built, well
found, and well officered, with sufficient crews, they made successful
voyages. Mr Ferris himself was a dignified, good-looking, and somewhat
portly gentleman, frank and hearty in his manners, fond of a good joke
and a good story, and highly respected for his upright and liberal
conduct.

Ellen, of course, had many admirers, but as yet it was generally
believed that she had favoured no one. She was, in truth, the light of
her father's home, and he had no wish to part with her. She and Norah
set off one bright afternoon on their walk to Widow Massey's cottage.
Norah had confided to Ellen her engagement to Owen.

"I am young, and so is he, and we are to wait till he has made two or
three more voyages, while I am to keep house for my father, who does not
intend again to go to sea," she remarked. "He inherited some property
lately, which prevents the necessity of his doing so, and though I
enjoyed the voyage to the West Indies, and the beautiful scenery and
strange sights I saw there, I am very glad to have him remain at home,
especially since the war has broken out, and there is now the risk of
capture by an enemy, such as we so narrowly escaped from. I wish,
indeed, that Owen could give up the sea, but he is very fond of it, and
promises me not to run into more danger than can be helped; and as it is
the lot of so many poor women to have those they love at sea, I must not
complain."

Ellen, sighed. Norah looked up with an inquiring glance at her
countenance, but Ellen only observed, "It must be borne with patience;
and then, you know, you can pray for those you love, and that is a great
comfort."

Mrs Massey, who had from her front windows seen her visitors
approaching, opened the door to admit