the leaky state of the vessel proved how much she had already suffered
from the violent shocks which she had received, and the certainty was
apparent, that if the weather did not abate, she could not possibly
withstand the force of the waves much longer.

The countenance of Captain Osborn showed great anxiety: he had a heavy
responsibility on his shoulders - he might lose a valuable ship, and
still more valuable cargo, even if they did not all lose their lives;
for they were now approaching where the sea was studded with low coral
islands, upon which they might be thrown by the waves and wind, without
having the slightest power to prevent it in their present disabled
condition.

Ready was standing by him when Captain Osborn said--

"I don't much like this, Ready; we are now running on danger and have
no help for it."

"That's true enough," replied Ready: "we have no help for it; it is
God's will, sir, and His will be done."

"Amen!" replied Captain Osborn solemnly; and then he continued, after a
pause, "There were many captains who envied me when I obtained command
of this fine ship, - would they change with me now?"

"I should rather think not, Captain Osborn, but you never know what the
day may bring forth. You sailed with this vessel, full of hope - you
now, not without reason, feel something approaching to despair; but who
knows? it may please the Almighty to rebuke those angry winds and
waves, and to-morrow we may again hope for the best; at all events you