he poorly
paid, obscurely enacted heroism of the men in this service is held by
the general public.

They have not the advantages, like our soldiers and firemen, of dressy
uniforms and frequent parade before us. They would be greatly
embarrassed by anything like public homage; yet how beneficent is their
service! The lonely isolation of the Government Houses; the long,
ofttimes dangerous patrols every night from sunset to sunrise; their
detachment from home and social ties,--all speak for the dignified
bravery of these men along our coasts, and should call forth from us a
grateful and appreciative tribute.

HARRIET T. COMSTOCK.
FLATBUSH, BROOKLYN, N.Y.
JUNE 12, 1907.

ILLUSTRATIONS

Janet Frontispiece

page
"The two men stood spellbound before the easel" 117

"'What do you know of my mother?'" 187

"'They're on the outer bar! Two rockets! I've answered!'" 267

JANET OF THE DUNES

CHAPTER I

A sweeping curve of glistening beach. A full palpitating sea lying under
the languid heat of a late June afternoon. The low, red Life Saving
Station, with two small cottages huddling close to it in friendly
fashion, as if conscious of the utter loneliness of sea and sand dune.
And in front of one of these houses sat Cap'n Billy and his Janet!

They two seemed alone in the silent expanse of waste and water, but it
in no wise disturbed them. Billy was industriously mending a huge fish
net spread out upon the sands. Janet was planning a mode of attack, in
order to preserve unto herself the very loneliness and isolation that
surrounded them.

In Janet's hands Cap'n Billy knew himself a craven coward. Only by
keeping his eyes away from the face near him could he hope for success
in argument. And Cap'n Billy, with all the strength of his simple,
honest nature, meant to succeed in the present course--if Janet would
permit him!

It was yet to be discovered how beautiful was the girl, crouching upon
the sands. So unlike was she to the young people of the Station that she
repelled, rather than attracted, the common eye. Tall, slim, and sinewy
was she, with the quick strength of a boy. The smooth, brown skin had
the fineness and delicacy of exquisite bronze. Some attempt had been
made earlier in the day to confine the splendid hair with s