As she was watching with admiration its turbulent beauty, Morton, who
had come to her side, burst out,--

"Why, Sara, look in the offing, isn't that the Seagull at anchor? Why,
it is, it must be! Then Jap Norris is here, and can tell us about
father!"

"Are you sure, Morton? I can't make her out from here.'

"Well, I can! I know the old Sea-gull like a book; and look! look, Sara,
if that isn't Jap this minute coming down the street!"

Sara looked, recognizing the straight young figure at once, and turned
back to her brother with a quick pang of foreboding that slightly paled
her sweet face.

"Morton," she said huskily, "he brings us news of father!"




CHAPTER VIII.

NEWS FROM THE NAUTILUS.


When the fleet to which the Nautilus belonged reached the Banks,
everything seemed exceptionally propitious. The weather was fine and
tranquil for March, and the fish fairly asking to be taken. In fact, it