character is his
tower of strength. He failed to break down his reputation, failed to
ruin him, failed to injure him in the opinion of any for more than a
brief period. Perhaps, if he could have ruined Levi, and got him out of
the way, as he desired, he might have succeeded in his wicked
intention, though God does not often permit such iniquity to prosper.

By the next steamer Mr. Watson's family departed for home. The Starry
Flag was carefully repaired, an abundant supply of provisions put on
board, and she sailed for the United States. Mat Mogmore returned
voluntarily in her. As Mr. Watson had decided to spend two or three
months in Europe on his return, Levi did not hasten his homeward
voyage. At the Cape of Good Hope he staid a couple of weeks, to see the
country. He remained about the same time at St. Helena, at Ascension,
at the Cape Verde Islands, and at the Bermudas, thus avoiding the
winter storms of the North Atlantic, besides seeing the wonders of the
sunny isles of the ocean.

About the middle of May The Starry Flag was discovered entering Sandy
Bay. Mr. Watson and his family, who had arrived a month before, had
gone to their summer home; and when those who cast frequent glances to
seaward discovered the yacht, Mr. Watson was informed of her arrival.
With Bessie on his arm, he hastened down to the Point, where hundreds
of Levi's friends had already gathered to welcome him. The anchor of
the yacht went down among the rocks off the Point, the sails were
furled, and all hands went on shore.

Levi's reception was worthy of a hero. He was cheered as though he had
been a great admiral coming home from his conquest of the seas; but the
tearful welcome which Bessie Watson bestowed upon him was more grateful
than the plaudits of the multitude. He went with her to her father's
house, and the rest of the day and a long evening were spent in
relating the incidents of their return from that distant land, half
round the world.

"How is my uncle now?" asked Levi of Mr. Gayles, who formed one of the
party.

"He is about the same as usual," replied the constable. "He has lost
ten thousand dollars by Dock Vincent, and he groans about that night
and day."

"That money can be recovered," said Mr. Watson. "Vincent did not use
it."

"The trial of Dock has been postponed from time to time on account of
your absence," added Mr. Gayles. "The case will be called again next
week."

When it was assigned the next time, the w