in as calm a tone as he could assume.

"That settles the question," said the commander. "Colonel, we must do
our duty. I see no prospect of keeping the ship afloat much longer. If
we delay, she may go down with all on board, and the chance of saving
some will be lost."

"I agree with you, captain," said the colonel.

"We need not let the people know this, though," observed Commander
Newcombe. "Those who go in the boats may be allowed to suppose that the
ship will be kept afloat better without them. Mr Tobin, hoist out the
boats at once. The women and children must be divided among them. I
have settled who is to go in each. Colonel, you will accompany your
wife and daughters."

"I have a higher duty, sir, though I thank you for the offer. I remain
with my men," answered Colonel Morley in a firm tone.

"And I remain with you and the ship, sir," said Mr Tobin; "and I
believe you will find that most of the other officers desire to do the
same."

"I will direct the junior officers of my regiment to draw lots who is to
go," said Colonel Morley.

Some little time was occupied in making these and similar arrangements.
The three officers then separated, to perform the duties they had
undertaken. While the naval officers were superintending the lowering
of the boats, an undertaking of great difficulty and risk, Colonel
Morley entered the cabin, and having summoned the officers around him,
he informed them of the determination which had been arrived at. He
spoke in a low, calm voice, so that he might not be overheard by his
wife and daughters, or the other ladies. The captains at once declined
drawing lots.

"Twopenny is the only married man among us," said Captain Power; "he
must accompany his wife."

The lieutenants, when they heard that the colonel intended to remain, at
once decided to stay by him and their men. The ensigns, with the
exception of poor Holt, who was still in his cabin, were inclined to
decide as their superior officers had already done.

"No, my lads," said the colonel, "you are young, and may have many years
of life before you. I must insist on your obeying my commands."

The lots were quickly drawn, and Ensign Holt was declared to have the
option of going. He had been watching the proceeding with staring eyes
and a look of intense anxiety and dread, fully believing, apparently,
that he should be among those to remain. The excitement was too much
for his nerves. As his name was p