32 THE HOME OF A NATURALIST. 



sea he could, and she seemed a strong boat and sea- 

 worthy. But there were some dreadful squalls shortly 

 after they left." Another said, "I don't know what 

 to think. If they got safely across I consider they 

 might have been back, for there have been several 

 lulls in the storm ; but of course, the wind being 

 contrary, they may be safe enough, but find it danger- 

 ous to return. God grant it may be so. You must 

 keep up your heart and hope for the best." 



Towards evening the wind moderated somewhat, and 

 the sky cleared up, but the waiting and suspense had 

 by this time become intolerable. At last my brother 

 said to some of the fishermen lounging about the quay, 

 " Lads, will any of you man a boat and run us down 

 to Fetlar ? " " Ay, that we will," said a dozen of 

 those brave fellows. And one added, "We can go 

 now without great danger, and will if we should not 

 get back for a week. It is before the wind, and we 

 can go there though they may not be able to beat or 

 row in its teeth." 



Very speedily a boat was manned and ready. 

 Just before starting a happy thought occurred to my 

 brother, ever tenderly mindful of the anxious heart 

 at home. "Lads," he said to those standing on the 

 quay, " if they are all safe and we can't get back to- 

 night, we shall light a fire over there in Fetlar which 

 you will see if it keeps clear. We'll somehow get 

 enough peats for that, and if you do see it, it will be 

 a signal that all is well. You must then send a 

 messenger instantly to my mother with the news, and 



