injured mine. I know that we had relations of noble birth, and I
should think that my father, had he possessed any claim to the
Arlingford title and estates, would not have failed to assert it."

"He was not aware, perhaps, that several of the intermediate heirs had
died in rapid succession, and that my father had been tempted
successfully to make his claim."

Ashurst as he spoke was evidently becoming weaker and weaker, and
although Owen would gladly have obtained more information from him, yet
he had not the heart to do so. He had very little hope indeed that
Ashurst would recover, but still was unwilling to tell him how ill he
was, lest it should lower his spirits and do harm.

The raft all this time was floating on the calm sea, drifting slowly
down the channel; but as there was not a breath of wind, with only the
pieces of board, it could scarcely be urged through the water.

Mike and Nat sat watching for anything likely to be of use which might
appear on the surface of the water. Owen devoted all his attention to
Ashurst, who was constantly complaining of the pain the wound in his
side caused him, and of the thirst he was enduring.

At last Owen asked him if he thought that he should recover?

"I dare not think about it," answered Ashurst. "I have lived a careless
life. I have done much evil, and no good that I can bring to my
remembrance. I can only now look forward to a few hours of suffering
before I quit the world. I wish that I had perished with the other poor
fellows. I do not know why I was saved, except as a punishment for my
sins."

"No, no, that could not have been," answered Owen. "You were preserved
because God loves you, and still to the last moment offers you
salvation. Turn to Him through Christ. He has said that although your
sins might be as scarlet, they may become as white as snow. God is
faithful and just to forgive us our sins. Believe in His glorious
promises."

"I find it a hard matter to do so," groaned Ashurst, "but I will try."

Owen offered to pray with him, and knelt down by his side. Ashurst's
lips continued to move, but his voice grew weaker and weaker. At length
Langton awoke. No sooner did he cast his eyes on Ashurst than he gave a
look at Owen and whispered, "He is going."

He took his messmate's hand, who returned the pressure he gave, but
gradually the fingers relaxed. Langton and Owen bent over him; ere
another minute had passed he was dead.

"Poor