k around to watch for
any sail which might heave in sight; each time, however, only meeting
with disappointment. The arching sky and circling expanse of water
were, as before, alone visible.

Towards evening Nub became more anxious. He did not like the look of
the weather. Dark clouds were gathering overhead, and the sea rose and
fell in ominous undulations, which he fancied betokened a storm. Still
he could do nothing. He felt his own helplessness; and this God often
designs should be the case, that men may place their entire dependence
on Him who alone can afford help in time of need.

Nub did not speak of his fears to Alice, who at length fell asleep while
he sat watching by her side, ready to hold her fast should the sea get
up as he expected it would do. He was mistaken, however, in his
anticipations of evil; for though the threatening appearance of the
weather did not go off, the ocean remained as calm as before.

Another day came round. Nub was constantly on his feet looking about
for the expected sail, as there was a light breeze, which might have
brought one towards them. Hour after hour passed by and no sail
appeared.

"Will a ship neber come?" frequently ejaculated Nub. He was losing
patience, and it was but natural. "The biscuits and water will soon be
all gone, and den what shall we do?" he thought to himself; but he did
not say that aloud, lest Alice might be alarmed.

"I am sure that the boats, or a ship, will find us to-morrow," said
Alice.

"Why do you tink dat?" asked Nub.

"Because our biscuits are coming to an end," said Alice calmly; "and,
Nub, I see that you eat very few of them, and you are growing weak and
thin. You ought to take twice as many as I do, as you are twice as big;
and yet I am sure that you eat much fewer."

"How you know dat, Missie Alice?" asked Nub.

"Because the last time you served them out I counted the number you
took; and while you gave me four, you only ate two yourself."

"Well, you bery cunning girl," said Nub, trying to laugh. "But den
remember you are growing, and want food more dan I do. I have only to
eat enough to keep body and soul togeder; and you have not been
accustomed to hardships as I have since I can remember; so you see dat
it's right I should give you more dan I take myself."

Alice did not quite understand Nub's reasoning, but she felt very
hungry, and was thankful to obtain the food.

"Now, Missie Alice, I am not going to eat an