dashed into the surf, and drew the boat up high and dry upon the beach.

The new-comers were very heartily if somewhat roughly greeted. After
the first excitement was over, Eric noticed they were looking at him
curiously.

Evil-Eye whispered among them, whereupon they shook their heads as
though to say,--

"Oh no, that can't be done. We're quite sure that won't do at all."

Eric's heart sank when he saw this, and rightly guessed its meaning.
There seemed, at best, but two chances for him. He would either be
left behind upon the island in helpless solitude, or be taken to
Boston, and there got rid of somehow--in such a way that he could give
no trouble to the wreckers. On the latter, surrounded although it was
with uncertainties and dangers innumerable, he pinned all his hopes.
It offered some faint chance of ultimate deliverance. But would they
take him on board the schooner?

CHAPTER IX.

FAREWELL TO SABLE ISLAND.

Great was the bustle and excitement at the wreckers' quarters. The day
happened to be particularly favourable for embarking--such a day, in
fact, as might not come once in a month; and everything must be done to
make the most of it. But the very beauty of the day gave evidence of
approaching change. It was what the seafaring folk call a
"weather-breeder," because such lovely days are always followed by
storm.

None knew this better than the wreckers. They made all haste to
transfer themselves and their booty to the schooner. In keen anxiety
Eric watched the work going on. No one seemed to notice him, though
several times he caught Evil-Eye regarding him with such a look of
fiendish triumph as sent a shiver to his heart.

Ben, who had his own interests to care for, cheered him a little by
clapping him on the back as he passed, and saying, in his most
encouraging tone,--

"Keep up your heart, my lad. We'll manage it somehow."

But the removal of the booty was almost complete, and still he did not
know his fate. Only another boat-load of stuff remained to be taken
off, and in the boat that came for this were Ben, Evil-Eye, and the
captain of the schooner. Eric stood near the landing-place with Prince
beside him. He knew that his future hung upon what might be decided
within a few minutes.

The boat was loaded, and the crew stood ready to launch her into the
breakers. Now came the critical moment. How far the matter might have
been discussed already Eric had no idea. He s