ady and good seaman?" asked Mr Vernon, in a voice
husky with emotion.

"Not a steadier man nor a better seaman comes to this port," replied Mr
Dunnage. "If his craft was caught by a squall, or got into any other
difficulty, I am sure he would have done all that could be done for
her."

"We fell in with a terrific squall soon after she was at sea," mused Mr
Vernon. "Heaven grant that she was not exposed to it."

"It is impossible to say," answered the merchant in a kind tone. "I
feel more than usually anxious, on account of her passengers, I own.
Sailors are accustomed to hardships; they expect to meet them in their
career; and they are aware, when they go afloat, that they must be
prepared to lose their lives in the gale or the battle."

Mr Vernon shuddered. He began to realise the possibility of the loss--
the dreadful death of her he loved. Still he was a right-minded, brave
man, and what is more, a sincere Christian; and he resolved not to give
way to despair.

Mr Dunnage perceived, at length, the effect his information had
produced, and he now did his best to mitigate the anxiety of my
lieutenant, entering warmly into all his plans for gaining information
as to the fate of the brig.

It was agreed that he should write round to all the ports on the shores
of the Mediterranean, near which it was possible the _Ariadne_ could
have been driven; and that his correspondents there should send boats
along the coast from port to port, so that no part should remain
unexplored.

"I should advise you also to see the Admiral; he will, I am sure, take a
warm interest in the matter."

No sooner said than done. When sensible men are in earnest about an
affair, they do not lose time by talking, the plan of action being at
once decided on.

Mr Dunnage having penned the draft of a circular letter to be sent to
the ports, left it to be copied by his clerks, while we set forth to see
the Admiral, who was, fortunately, at Malta.

The worthy old man at once entered into all the proposed plans for
searching for the brig, and suggested others.

"We'll send the _Harold_ to sea at once; and I'll despatch all the small
craft I can spare on the search. Stay,--you shall take an order to
Captain Poynder to sail forthwith. I suppose he's ready to go?" said he
to Mr Vernon.

"We are well supplied with provisions, and can soon fill up with water;
we can be off this evening, I know," replied Mr Vernon.

"Away with you! and ma