returned once more to
the edge of the water. Their object was evident. By the increasing
light I saw several figures clinging to the rocks, against which I
concluded the vessel had struck. Full twenty negroes were on the beach,
which was strewed with bits of plank and spars, and coils of rope, and
other portions of the wreck. Presently I saw four or five of them
plunge into the water together, holding the end of a rope. They struck
out bravely, and though more than once driven back, they still made way,
till they reached the rock, up which they clambered. The people on the
rock helped them out of the water. There were several negroes, a few of
whom were women, and three white men. One of the white men held a black
infant in his arms, and as the light increased, I recognised my friend
Jack Stretcher. "Just like the gallant fellow!" thought I. At that
dreadful moment, when most people would have been thinking only of their
own preservation, he looked out for the most helpless being, that he
might try and save it, even at the risk of his own life. I hope the
mother of the infant has escaped to thank him; but, at all events, he
will have his reward. The other two men were my shipmates. Of the
slaver's crew, not a man had escaped. After this I remember nothing;
for, from exhaustion, consequent on the blows I had received in the
water, I fainted. I had a dreamy notion of being lifted up and carried
along some distance, and of the hot sun scorching me; and then of
entering the cool shade of a house, and of hearing a voice which I
fancied I recollected, and thought very sweet, say, "Why, papa, it's
that little officer again. Poor, poor fellow! how ill and wretched he
looks!" I tried to open my eyes to look at the speaker, but had no
strength left to lift even my eyelids. How long I had remained in a
state of unconsciousness I could not tell, though I afterwards found it
was some weeks. The next time I recollect opening my eyes, they rested
on the features of Miss Alice Marlow, and by her side was a young man in
a lieutenant's uniform while at the foot of my couch stood Jack
Stretcher. "Where am I? How's all this?" I asked, in a faint voice.

"You are in Mr Marlow's house, in the island of Barbadoes," said the
young officer. "As to the rest, it's a long yarn, and we'll spin it
another time."

"Ah, and now I know you. You are Waller," replied I. "Well, old
fellow, I'm glad you've got your promotion."