ought,
however, of the interview he had with Hampton down the river the day
before, and he smiled to himself, He understood now why the young
fellow was so interested in the fair passenger on board the "Eb and
Flo," and for his sake, no doubt, the girl had run away from home.

Eben worked so hard all the morning that his father was greatly
surprised. He had heard what the men said about Hampton and the girl,
and it was necessary for him to do something to give vent to his
intensely wrought-up feelings. He worked with a feverish energy, and
seemed to possess the strength of two men as he helped at the derrick
as the big blocks of granite were swung on board. He hardly touched
his noon-day meal, and this caused his father considerable anxiety, for
the boy had been always blessed with an excellent appetite.

All through the afternoon the work of loading the boat was continued,
and such excellent progress was made that the captain was looking
forward to sailing early the next morning. To all outward appearance
Eben's mind was entirely upon the big stones which were being hoisted
on board. But anyone watching closely might have noticed that
occasionally he gave a keen, furtive glance up toward the quarry.

The day was fast wearing to its close, and the last block of stone was
about to be moved, when Eben gave one of his quick looks up the hill.
As he did so he suddenly straightened himself up and stared as if he
had seen a ghost. His face became suddenly pale, and his hands
trembled as he watched two people walking slowly down the track. He
recognised them at once, and it was their appearance he had been
expecting all the afternoon. He knew that they were coming to the
boat, and he did not wish to meet the girl when Hampton was present.
He felt that he could not trust himself, so great was his agitation.

Without a word to anyone Eben left the wharf, walked a few yards along
the river, and disappeared among some bushes. He soon stopped when he
was sure that he could not be seen, crouched low upon the ground, and
watched all that was taking place near the "Eb and Flo." He could see
John and the girl talking with the captain for a few minutes, after
which the three went on board and entered the cabin. When they
reappeared about fifteen minutes later, Hampton was carrying a small
parcel in his hand, which Eben surmised contained the articles his
father had purchased for Jess at the store. When once again upon the