was not about to
decline your kind invitation in toto, but only to say that I am occupied
with duties that I cannot neglect on Friday evenings and Saturday
mornings; but on Saturday evening I shall be very happy to come over and
spend Sunday."

"Very well, then, Ishmael; so be it; I accept so much of your pleasant
company, since no more of it is to be had. By the way, Ishmael!"

"Yes, sir."

"That was a gallant feat and a narrow escape of yours as it was
described to me by my niece Claudia. Nothing less than the preservation
of her life could have justified you in such a desperate act."

"I am grateful to Miss Merlin for remembering it, sir."

"As if she could ever forget it! Good Heaven! Well, Ishmael, I see that
your pupils are assembling fast. I will not detain you from your duties
longer. Good-morning; and remember that we shall expect you on Saturday
evening."

"Good-morning, sir! I will remember; pray give my respects to Mrs.
Middleton and all the family."

"Certainly," said Mr. Middleton, as he walked away.

Ishmael re-entered the schoolroom, rang the bell to call the pupils in,
and commenced the duties of the day.

On Saturday afternoon, all his weekly labors being scrupulously
finished, Ishmael walked over to Rushy Shore Beacon, as Mr. Middleton's
house was called.

It was a very large old edifice of white stone, and stood upon the
extreme point of a headland running out into the river. There were many
trees behind it, landward; but none before it, seaward; so that really
the tall white house, with its many windows, might well serve as a
beacon to passing vessels.

Around the headland upon which it was situated the waters swept with a
mighty impetus and a deafening roar that gave the place its descriptive
name of Rushy Shore. As the air and water here were mildly salt, the
situation was deemed very healthy and well suited to such delicate lungs
as required a stimulating atmosphere, and yet could not bear the full
strength of the sea breezes. As such the place had been selected by Mr.
Middleton for the residence of his invalid wife.

When Ishmael approached the house he found the family all assembled in
the long front porch to enjoy the fine view.

Walter Middleton, who was the first to spy Ishmael's approach, ran down
the steps and out to meet him, exclaiming, as he caught and shook his
hand:

"How are you, old boy, how are you? Looking in high health and
handsomeness, at any rate! I should