The starry flag orthe young fisherman of cape ann 1899 c1895 by Mike Meuse Smith

THE LIBRARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES GIFT OF

MABEL R. GILLIS

THE STARRY FLAG; OR, THK

YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN,

OLIVER OPTIC, 4OTHOR OF "TOCNG AMERICA ABROAD," "THE ARMY AND NAVY 3TOBIK3,' "THE WOODVILLE STORIES," "THE BOAT-CLUB STOEIES,"

"THE

KIVERIJALE STORIES," ETC.

BOSTON

LEE AND SHEPARD PUBLISHERS 1899

Entered, according to Act of Congress, In the year 1867, by WILLIAM T. ADAMS,

In the Clerk's

Office of the District

COPYBIGHT,

1895,

Court of the District of Massachusetts.

BY "WlLLIAM

TARRY FLAG.

ADAMS.

MY YOUNG

FBIEND,

JANE LEE TAYLOR^ IS

AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED.

577459

PREFACE.

THE STARRY FLAG

the

first

of a series of stories

course of publication in " Oliver Optic's Magazine,

AND GIRLS."

appeared in weekly instalments,

received with a degree of favor as unexpected as

now

OUR BOYS it

was

was grati

fying to the author; and he gratefully acknowledges the kind

ness of his

young

friends,

whose

his

partiality to

works has

heen so often and so agreeably manifested.

Although

this

story

mainly

fiction, it is

not without a

foundation of truth, both in the relations of the hero to his uncle, and in the singular event

of the plot rests.

The

upon which the turning-point

localities of the various incidents are

intended to be correctly described, as they were fixed in the

mind of the writer by a pleasant sojourn of a few weeks on Cape Ann during a summer vacation. It is

more important

that the hero should be

worthy of the

admiration and regard of the reader than that merely local (6)

PKKFACB.

surroundings should be accurately delineated; and the author

hopes that his young friends, while they strive to be as resolute

and daring as Levi, will also endeavor as void of offence before

God and man,

Since the publication of in the

to be as noble

true,

as he labored to be.

The Starry Flag was completed

Magazine, the author has found allusions to

a hundred letters from

and

young persons, who seem

in at least

to be strongly

impressed with the opinion that the whole story has not been

Though

told.

was not

his original

purpose to write a second

story with the same characters, the author has neither the inclination nor the courage to disappoint his

and

young

friends,

no distant period the fortunes of Levi Fairfield and

Bessie Watson will be followed to a more satisfactory conclu sion in a Sequel to

HARRISON SQUARE, September

The Starry MASS.,

17, 1867.

Flag.

CONTENTS. CHAPTEK

r A01

THE DINGY DORY

CHAPTER Two HUNDRED AND

II.

....

FIFTY DOLLARS.

CHAPTER

III.

DOCK VINCENT

CHAPTER A

.33

.45

PITCHED BATTLE.

CHAPTER LEVI FAIRFIELD'S CHAMBER.

STOLE THE WALLET

...

CHAPTER WHO

VI.

-69

CHAPTER

VII.

Oro EASTERN POINT

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER

VIII.

THE TEMPEST AND THE WRECK

CHAPTER

IX.

AFTER THE SQUALL.

103

CHAPTER DOCK

VINCENT'S LITTLE PLAN

CHAPTER LEVI'B

X. 114

XI.

CHAMBER

126

CHAPTER

XII.

LEVI MAKES A SPEECH

CHAPTER

137

XIII.

MR. HATCH'S TESTIMONY.

CHAPTER

149

XIV.

AFTER THE EXAMINATION

161

CHAPTER XV. LEVI EXPLORES THE CHIMNEY

CHAPTER

172

XVI.

ON MIKE'S POINT

183

CHAPTER THE EVIL MAN

XVII. 104

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER

XVIII.

THE STARRY FLAG GOES TO SEA

205

CHAPTER DOCK VINCENT'S LETTER.

XIX.

......

216

CHAPTER XX. THE CRUISE OF THE STARRY FLAG

CHAPTER

228

XXI.

THE STARRY FLAG COMES TO ANCHOR.

CHAPTER

239

XXII.

HOMEWARD BOUND.

CHAPTER

251

XXIII.

THE NIGHT AND THE GALE

263

CHAPTER XXIV. THE RETURN OF THE STARRY FLAG

274

CHAPTER XXV. THE RESULT OF THE EXAMINATION

286

CHAPTER XXVI. CONCLUSION

300

THE STARRY FLAG; OB,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER THB

DIN^GY DORY.

iTJT I must have one more bath before we go father," said Bessie

Watson,

as she gazed

down

into the clear, blue waters of the sea, which surged

against the rocks near the hotel on

Cape Ann, where

she and her parents had been spending a week. " as

There

hardly time, Bessie,"

rep'J'>'i

Mr. Watson,

he consulted his watch.

"What

time

is it,

"Quarter past

"There

"I don't

father?"

eight."

time enough then." like to

have you bathe here, Bessie.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

Rye Beach

a dangerous place, and I'm going to

almost wholly because you are so fond of the water. that "

have been

you would

There

in,

slip off that rock."

there

is."

The rope

will prevent

The rope

the place

every time you went

no danger."

"I think

afraid,

salt

some

any accident."

protection, but

don't think

safe."

"Just one more plunge, pa; I

shall

better for the journey!" pleaded Bessie,

feel so

much

whose bright

eyes and pretty face were so eloquent that the indul

gent father could not

resist

them.

Undoubtedly Mr. Watson was

entirely correct in his

estimate of the bathing facilities of the particular point

on Cape

Ann

of which

write.

The

hotel

was

cated on high land, Avhich terminated at the shore in

ragged rocks and steep precipices.

There was no beach,

not even a patch of sand, on which the bather could obtain a foothold.

A sloping rock, which

afforded not

more than a couple of square rods of

flat surface,

been selected for bathing purposes.

on perpendicular iron bars

had

rope, secured

set in the rock,

had been

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. stretched around

earned

it,

by the

to prevent the bathers from being

or from venturing

beyond

their

Mr. Watson was a wealthy merchant from the

city,

off

surf,

depth.

and Bessie was spoiled little

If she

his only child.

by over-indulgence,

waywardness

had not been

was because there was so

in her nature

because she was too

;

gentle and affectionate to take advantage of the ness of her parents.

Bathing in

and harmless recreation element of sea-shore

itself

and, as

;

was a pleasant

was the principal

Bessie thought

life,

weak

was quite

proper that she should indulge in a plunge on the pres

There was no possible objection except

ent occasion.

the alleged insecurity of the place

bathed

a half a dozen

there

being washed

off the

rocks,

;

and, as she had

times before without it

might be done just

once more.

Her

father yielded the point; and

reflection

him

for

that

this

was the

was a happy last

time

The bathing dressea and daughter made haste

should be compelled to yield.

were sent

for,

and father

to improve the short time left to

orating recreation.

them

for the invig

During the night the wind had

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

been blowing fresh from the south-west, which in locality

always produces a heavy

was now warm and from the westward

pleasant,

sea.

The weather

with a light

but the waves, from the

;

of the night wind, were

breeze effects

strong and heavy.

still

Bessie rushed into the water, closely followed

her father.

great billow immediately

over;" but she sprang to her

she had been a

fish,

rolled up,

perfectly

a piece of cork, and

the bathing hut,

and

rare sport to

manor

more, nor have

Another great wave

home.

and again she was

was

tipped her

to the watery "

born," she could not have enjoyed felt

feet again, leaping

shouting with childish delight. her ; and,

this

lifted

from her

feet like

would have been dashed against she had not grasped the rope.

" This won't do, Bessie," said

Mr. Watson, shaking

his head. "

Why,

pa, I think

it's

delicious," replied Bessie, in

a silvery scream. "

The waves

posed. "

are a great deal stronger than I sup

I can hardly

keep

O, do keep them, pa

feet."

You

will

want them when

get to Rye," shouted the excited

little

miss.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "

Come,

"We

haven't been in

that's a

yet,

Bessie, don't stay in

any longer."

two minutes.

Bessie,

" Just a

Don't go out

dear pa."

I'm afraid the sea will carry you

girl,

off.

a good

and go out now."

minute or two longer,

hold of the rope

;

I won't let

I will keep

father.

;

and I

shall

be just

as safe here as I should be in the house."

"Be

very careful then, for you have no idea of

the strength of these waves." " There isn't a bit of danger,

not a

plied the sylph, as she extended her agile

bit,"

form upon

the water, and began to beat the blue brine with her delicate little feet.

But the water was not the

cliff for

deep enough near

aquatic feats, suggested to her

certain

vivid imagination

quite

by the presence of the

rope,

and

she followed the line out to the part which ran par allel

with the shore.

guard, and flapped

There she

hung under the

and floundered, and kicked and

buffeted the great waves, screaming

young delight.

ladies

Her

all

the time, as

always do, in the exuberance of her father attempted

to assist

her in the

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

exhilarating fun of the occasion ious

and so nervous

for

;

but he was so anx

the safety of the sportive

mermaid, that he did not materially increase

little

the merriment of the moment, though his presence

was always a joy to

his daughter.

About the time Bessie's tiny feet touched the cool ing waters, a dory, loaded to the in the middle, with dog-fish,

rail,

rounded the rocky point,

a few rods beyond the bathing-place. tained the hero of our story, and that

and heaped up

This boat con

was

quite proper

should round the point at this particular

ment, when our readers are reasonably sure that Miss Bessie will unfortunately lose her hold of the guard rope,

and be carried out into the deep water by a

treacherous retreating wave.

The dory which alluded

to,

contained the important personage

whose presence suggests heroic deeds and

tender words, was not at

all

Cleopatra's barge,

and was utterly unworthy the honor of receiving on board

the

on the ledge.

pieced and patched original

who was

gentle water-sprite

locks in the brine

fabric

left.

till

there

laving her

The dory had been

was not much of the

She had been tinned and

tin-

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. kered, tarred

and pitched, calked and puttied,

until

she would condescend to remain on the top of the water,

apparently in acknowledgment of the perse

verance rather than the audacity to attempt to she did

float,

skill

who had

of him

make such

a craft float.

and bore up a goodly

the

But

freight of staring

dog-fish.

Bent on a rude mast, stepped through the thwart of the dory, was a small " a

was

sprit-sail,

fore

which, like

thing of shreds and

the hull

beneath

patches,"

and which was even a better exponent of

it,

the ingenuity and perseverance of to the breeze of that soft

him who spread

summer morning.

Nearly

amidships, with the dog-fish heaped up before and

behind him, sat the author and finisher cially the finisher

graceful craft

more espe

of the dingy, uncouth, and un

we have

described.

With both hands

he held a worm-eaten oar firmly against the side of the boat, the blade projecting

below

the

bottom of the

down

into the water

dory, thus

serving

the

double purpose of keel and rudder.

Levi

Fair-field

would not have passed muster

the drawing-room of wealth and fashion, or even in

THE 8TAEEY FLAG, OE

Ann nabob

the humbler parlor of the Cape

was an exceedingly good to be the hero of a

one

aspire

and

fit

more pretentious story than the It

tell.

clothes consisted of as as

but he

;

fellow for all that,

many

true

quite

that

his

sail,

and

patches as his

mighty a struggle had been made to induce them

to hold together, as itself;

had been expended on the boat

and they were daubed from head to foot with

numerous dabs of

dog-fish slime, to say nothing of

But underneath

paint and pitch, tar and grease.

this

garb of unseemly cut and doubtful unity were iron muscles and a heart of

with his homely

dress,

steel.

Inconsistent as

and inconsistent

seem to present a youthful hero

was

it it

may

hi the first chapter

with his wealth already piled up, Levi Fairfield's for tune

was

as fortunes

made.

were measured on Cape

His father had

left

Ann

him considerable

property, and his uncle, whose only god was money,

had been appointed his guardian.

Levi was ambitious, not for his future alone, but for the present.

There were two things he wanted,

and of which he need

new

suit

felt

himself to

of clothes and a

especially

new

boat; and

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

he wanted the boat more than he wanted the clothes,

which

not

will

seem very strange

awake boys, fond of

snuffing salt-water

wide

all

and

air,

sail

ing in crack boats.

the

week

before

to the reader, there

mammoth

tent

present our aquatic her^

had been a great

by one of the

the place, to obtain

money

fair

religious

held in a

societies in

to build a church.

devout and devoted brother in a neighboring town

had

built

craft,

handsome

a sail-boat, a

and presented

named

This boat, patriotically

Starry Flag," had been sent round to

The

the town, and It

substantial

to the church, to be sold for

the benefit of the enterprise. "

and

moored

at a

wharf near the great

had been used to carry out

parties

from the

and thus contributed something to the object

had not been "

The Starry Flag

was Levi's at her

from his dilapidated dory. ;

longed to

in her.

Not

her; but he

fair,

but

sold.

boat, and he used to gaze

her

;

tent.

own

her

;

He go

ideal

of a good

with delighted eyes

longed a-fishing

possess

and

sailing

alone as a pleasure craft did he covet felt

that he could

make her

pay.

What

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

a load of dog-fish she could bring in

What

a party

and gentlemen he could take out to the

of ladies fishing

grounds

in her

In a word, she would be

present fortune to him.

entertained some serious thoughts of applying

to his uncle

sum

two hundred and

for

asked for "

The

Starry Flag

dollars,

fifty

" ;

but he rejected

the idea after faithful consideration, for he it

would be

the

knew

that

easier to squeeze a quart of milk out of

a cubic foot

of Rockport granite, than to get two

hundred and

fifty

dollars

unless

purpose whatever,

was

pay

his

nephew's

Levi wanted that boat, and he con

funeral expenses.

tinued to want

out of his uncle for any it

up to the time when he rounded

the point beyond the bathing-place.

We sented

assure to

Fail-field

our impatient readers

and

through

this

who have con account of Levi

his antecedents, that Bessie

Watson

not yet drowned, and hasn't even slipped off the

rock into the deep water. it

flat

regret the delay, but

would be absurd to have a young lady rescued

from a watery grave without knowing anything about the person

who

to achieve

the heroic deed.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. the next,

from impending

sel

when

not in the present generation,

bold-hearted young fellow fire

necessary to introduce

to rescue a helpless

or water,

him

will

dam

be absolutely

before he plunges

in.

After leading our readers to anticipate the appall' ing event suggested at the beginning of this chapter, it

would be

ill-will

and

against poor Bessie,

love,

upon the one

fell

cruel to disappoint

them; and, with no

whom we

both admire

are compelled to let her lose her hold

and to permit the ugly wave, with

rope,

swoop, to bear her far out beyond the reach

of her agonized father. "

See me, pa " shouted she, as she sprang out of !

the water into the greatest of

all,

air,

just as the "tenth wave," the

swept under

She descended

her.

" Isn't this fun

as the billow rolled

back whitened

with foam from the rocks, and buried herself

milky surge. against her,

" !

the

The heavy volume of water rushed wrenched her grasp from the

earned her shrieking out into the water.

line,

and

THE STAERY FLAG, OB

CHAPTER

II.

TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY

F AIRFIELD was

LEYI dingy his

Bessie

fifteen years

Watson was

Ann

of story-telling,

flights

fortune

was only

by the

appraisers after his decease

figures

shrank

sold,

fortune in the

are compelled, in

acknowledge that Captain

fifteen

ten

thousand

dollars, ;

Fail-field's

rated

and even these

thousand when

and the debts due

beneath the dignity of

and even of the higher

to descend to particulars; but

were

when

His father had been

bathing.

It is rather

fishing business.

this instance, to

old

dory rounded the point above where

fisherman, and had made a Cape

history,

DOLLARS.

the smacks

his estate collected.

This was Levi Fairfield's fortune, and there was not the least need for him to

dabs of tar and rancid grease. field

was dead,

as Levi, then

soil

his trousers with

When

Captain Fair-

only eight years old,

YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

TfiUE

bad no mother, the probate wisdom, appointed the

court,

ineffable

its

be the guardian

lad's uncle to

of his person and his property

to feed, clothe, and

educate him in a manner conforming to his worldly

The

circumstances.

good one,

selection

Nathan

would have been a very

Fail-field,

the captain's brother,

had been a decent man, with even tolerably enlarged ideas

of the duty a parent or guardian owes to a

when

child, especially all

the child has

Uncle Nathan was mean, called

economical.

in the winter,

Levi should

or tumble off a

cliff

would not mourn

When to

close,

sent the

labor.

for

fall

boy to school two like

a truck-

It was generally believed

overboard and be drowned,

and break

his neck, his guardian

as one without hope.

Levi attained the age of fourteen, he began

have some decided views of

to work,

pay

parsimonious

and worked him

horse the rest of the time. that, if

moral, intellectual, and material.

he needs

months

money

his

own.

liked

but he wanted to make something by his

felt

the need of a

little

more learning

than his uncle's stingy policy had permitted him to obtain.

Having a

will of his

own, he had already

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

decided to purchase a fine schooner, and go into the fishing business as soon as the

and

He was

own money.

to handle his

enterprise,

and

law would allow him

boy of energy

in spite of his uncle,

who had no

claim upon his time, he had already gone to work on his

own

hook, mainly for the purpose of improving

Purchasing the wreck of an old dory

his education.

with money earned by himself, he had made the craft in which

Levi was

we now

dissatisfied

worth ten thousand

with his position.

dollars,

the sons of fishermen and

into

find him.

He was

and dressed meaner than stone-cutters.

He had was hardly

another suit of clothes at home, but

better than that he

was none too

wore

good to wear every day purse-strings,

ence of opinion

As Levi

but uncle Nathan held the

There was a very wide

between

indeed there was on

were

at least,

and would not loosen them while the

rags held together.

tions

;

far

many

them on

this

differ

subject,

others, so that their rela

from harmonious and agreeable.

sat in the dory,

possession of so

many

proud and happy in the

dog-fish,

would add eight or ten

whose unctuous

livers

dollars to his worldly wealth,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. he glanced occasionally at the beautiful

who

little

sylph

was beating the angry waves with her delicate

He had

limbs.

seen Bessie

Watson

before,

had even occurred to him that she was the

and

fairest

young lady he had ever beheld. " Creation

shouted the young fisherman, as he

saw the receding wave

tear her

from the rope, and

bear her far out from her father. "

Help me

terribly

their

O, help

" !

cried the little maiden,

alarmed, as the great waves lifted

stormy

her on

and then buried her beneath the

crests,

surges.

Her

father

was

swimmer, but he

with

filled

fearlessly

powerless

plunged from the rope,

and attempted to reach his struggling to

He was

agony.

child.

He was

save her, for he could not even save

himself.

Levi Fairfield

let

out the sheet of his ragged

sail,

and headed the dory, which was jumping

Avildly over

the waves, towards the spot where Bessie

was strug

gling for

life.

He was

a skilful boatman, and, put

" " the ting his helm down, he spilled to at the

leeward of her. 3

Reaching

sail,

out,

and came

he grasped

THE STAKRY FLAG,

by the arm, and attempted

Bessie

the boat capacity,

;

skill,

pull her urce

but the dory was loaded to

and refused

to be

even in so good a cause.

and

Oil

utmost

its

further imposed

upon,

In spite of Levi's care

the dory rolled over, and emptied a large

But the

portion of the dog-fish into the sea.

youth held on to his water himself,

fair

intrepid

burden, and, taking to the

succeeded in getting her into

finally

the dory.

young fisherman was completely

this time the

exhausted by his exertions, and could only hold on at the

gunwale of the water-logged

had already put

off

craft.

boat

from the shore, and having res

cued Mr. Watson, came to the assistance of Levi. "

father

" !

cried

Bessie,

into his arms, "I am safe." " " child exclaimed the father,

she sprang

whose eyes were

involuntarily raised to heaven as he clasped her to his

heart, in

devout thanksgiving for the safety of

the beloved child.

"I've lost nearly

all

dog-fish," said Levi, as

climbed over the stern of the dory.

The boatman who had picked up Mr. Watson

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

pulled to the shore with his passengers, paying no attention to the

situation

of the young

Levi needed no assistance.

Hauling up

fisherman.

his sheet,

The

away again, and soon reached the shore.

filled

adventure, however romantic, was not entirely satis factory to the fisherman, for he

had

lost

two

thirds-

of his cargo, and neither father nor daughter had yet

even thanked him for his services. It is of

dog-fish

no use to cry

for spilled milk, or spilled

therefore Levi did not cry.

;

remainder of his

fish into

threw the

a hollow in the rocks, and

baled out the dory, intending to pull out and save

what he could of those which had gone overboard. "While he was thus occupied, Mr.

who had hut,

Watson and

Bessie,

dried and dressed themselves in the bathing

and were hardly the worse

for the catastrophe,

approached the spot.

"Young man, you have I am very grateful to

and "

that's nothing,

sir.

saved

daughter's

life,

you," said Mr. Watson. I always pick

up anything

I find adrift," replied Levi, with a broad laugh.

You

long as I

saved live,"

me, and

shall

remember you

added Bessie, warmly.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

Both

and daughter expressed their admira

father

and gratitude

tion

prompt and

for the

which he had rescued the

skilful

manner

maiden from the

little

waves. "

Now,

more than " I

what can

Levi, I

I should expect to

the

to do as

you

owe you

can ever pay."

don't charge anything,

adrift, as

for

"I'm sure

every day

in the

did,

that for

would

what

be picked up myself

young lady

much

for

sir,

I've done. if

broke

and I'm always willing any one," replied Levi.

like to save

a nice girl like her

week."

Levi cast a timid glance of admiration at Bessie,

and her father seemed offering to for

pay one with so much pride and dignity

what he had done.

" I live

have some doubts about

;

shall

but

remember you

gratefully

long as

wish to do something for you now,"

added the merchant. " I

don't ask anything

pay

for

the

dog-fish

scrape, I will call

"ITow much

;

but I

lost

you have a mind overboard

the

square."

are they

worth?" laughed Mr. Watson.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "Well, I don't know

five

make me whole, and

will

or six dollars. don't

That

want anything

more."

will certainly

more.

this

pointing to the "

Yes,

sir

;

" It isn't

do that; and I wish to do much "

asked

the

merchant,

dingy dory.

such as she

much of

"That's a

boat

your

fact.

she

is,

mine."

a boat."

But

fixed her up, so she

she's the best I

can get.

answers pretty well."

"Don't you want a better boat?" " I

expect to have one some time."

"Wouldn't you

don't

know but

"Do you know "

one

now?"

I would."

of a good one about here?"

There was one round here

may be you have

seen her.

The

Starry Flag

She's a nice boat,

you want one."

now ? "

Where

They have taken her round

"What

she

to Gloucester."

the price of her?"

"Two hundred "Do you know 3*

and

fifty

where to

dollars."

find

her?"

;

THE STAKKY FLAG, OK

"I think

"You " I

I could find her."

shall

have

her, Levi."

" I

exclaimed the young fisherman.

gave

her up some time ago." " I will

make you

a present of her," added Mr.

Watson. "

Well, no,

sir

I don't exactly like that

;

way

doing things," replied Levi, gazing upon the rock his feet, sorely

tempted by the

humane

be paid for the "

You need

" I don't "

shall

" I

haps

go to Gloucester

boy

going to

Rye

not

borrow

I couldn't

to-day, but

for the boat,

I won't

stingy uncle won't give

yours."

upon

and

for her yourself."

borrow the money of you.

taking two hundred and

"It

you the money to pay

You need

insist

Flag."

want the boat very bad, I'll

and I

to be paid."

that, if I tried.

you

but

want

I'm not going to pay you,

I will give

had done.

a better boat, Levi,

your having The Starry

yet disliking to

offer,

act he

it,"

deny

and per*

I'm rich myself, a red cent."

said

fifty dollars

;

the merchant,

from

his pocket.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "

the whole, I guess I will borrow

Levi, taking the

bills.

don't

replied

it,"

want anything

for

saving your daughter."

"Let him borrow posed Bessie,

father,

it,

who was

he wants

to," inter

delighted with Levi's honesty

and delicacy. Mr. Watson yielded the point, though that he intended the

all likely

it is

money should

not at

ever be

returned to him.

"And

here

ten dollars for the fish you lost,"

added the merchant, handing him another "It's

change "

only six dollars at this,"

can t

replied Levi.

Never mind

" There

the most, and

bill.

take the whole of

;

comes the

stage, father

;

it."

we must hurry

up to the house," said Bessie.

"Good

by,

shall

to do something

added Mr. Watson.

Levi,"

never forget you, and I

mean

for you."

Stop a minute

this

"I *

;

want

to give

you

note for

money, and get your change." can't

Come,

stop

Bessie."

now,"

laughed

the rich merchant

THE STARRY FLA, OR

32 "

Good

her

little

by, Levi," said the water sprite, giving " I

hand.

him

shall

always remember you and

it's

not every fellow that gets

pray for you." "

Thank

you, miss

;

a chance to pick up a lady like you in the water.

Good

by."

She bounded

after

two hundred and astonished

and

her father, leaving Levi with

sixty dollars in his hand.

delighted

He was

the result of the

venture. "

The Starry Flag

mine

as sure as I'm alive

" !

exclaimed he, as Mr. Watson and Bessie disappeared

beyond the

THE YOUNG FISHEllMAN OF CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER

III.

DOCK VINCENT. hundred and

TWO

Fairfield, as

" I

think

some, for

believed

him to

see

and make

;

realized

;

bills,

are not

money away from me,

he carried "

his

The Starry Flag

would

them

pocket.

was

The

actually

be, if his miserly uncle did not

money away from him. he could make money enough

books.

But they

and placed

get the

clothes he

hand.

a fact.

it's

dress in rags, as he always has."

dilapidated wallet vision

;

figures.

he'd take the

Levi rolled up the

bright

bills in his

but

Nathan's eyes would stick out

uncle

he saw these big

exclaimed Levi

he looked at the

wouldn't have

rather

fifty dollars

With to

new

boat

all

the

procure

needed, and to buy a whole library of

intended to go to school for

as soon as the boating season

was

over,

six

months,

whether

his

THE STABKY FLAG, OB

uncle was willing or not.

and so

far as

indulged the It

fond of reading,

and means would permit, he

taste.

was necessary that he should conceal the two

hundred and

new

his time

He was

fifty

dollars

from

his

He had

boat had been purchased.

the

uncle, until

taken

a loan from Mr. Watson, and he intended to pay

when he came

chose to take this view of

money,

for it

his

into possession of his property.

acceptance of the

was pleasanter than the idea of being

paid for doing a deed of kindness.

go immediately to Gloucester, and

wished to

buy the boat

but he could not go in the ragged and

;

gar

filthy

ments he wore, now drenched with water, and

and aunt

would excite the

curiosity of his uncle

he went home and changed them.

He hoped

that at

dinner time he should be able to effect his purpose.

there

was nothing

ness at present, he sat rapidly

drying his wet

to be

down

done about the busi

in the sun,

clothes,

and

extract the livers from the dog-fish.

unusually fortunate this morning. trip

of the season, and he was

which was

proceeded

He had was

satisfied,

been

his third

before h

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. any of

lost

his fish, that the cargo

about ten dollars' worth of selling

livers,

would yield him which were then

With

a dollar and a half a bucket.

ten dollars Mr.

Watson had given him, amount to

of the trip would

the

the proceeds

at least thirteen dollars,

which, with what he had before, increased his funds to twenty-one dollars.

Levi

felt

like a rich

hundred and loan

;

fifty

dollars,

and he was

Gloucester for

man, independent of the two

The

determined,

when he went

buy a

Starry Flag, to

He had enough

clothes.

which he regarded

to think

of,

suit

and

therefore,

was so busy that he did not notice the approach of a man,

who was descending

where he "

sat.

most of your dog-fish

Well, Levi, you lost

that scrape," said

Dock Vincent,

the boat

gone out

daughter,

when he reached

young fisherman was " I lost a coldly, for

the rocks to the place

the person

Mr. Watson

after

the

place

who had and

his

where

the

at work.

good many of them," replied Levi, rather

Dock Vincent was not

regarded with

much

favor.

a person

whom

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

"What

did he give

Did he

man

What do you

life ?

the meanest

added Levi, decidedly.

think he gave

for saving his

demanded Dock.

" I don't

know.

I didn't ask anything for

what

had got hold of the rope before

Besides, he

did.

of Cape Horn."

this side

sneered Dock.

" I don't think so," "

you?"

did the handsome thing by me."

you reached him." " I don't care if

he had

I like to see a

;

man who

has plenty of money, as he has, show something like gratitude

when

a fellow does

him a good

turn."

"Didn't he thank you?" "

Thank me

O, yes.

he and his daughter both

him where "

" I

;

talked well enough

but I wish I had

found him."

wouldn't have been drowned

don't

left

know about

that,"

said

you had."

Dock, shaking

his head.

"Didn't he give you anything?" asked Levi, who

was much surprised to with meanness.

hear

Mr. Watson charged

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "

Yes, he

with

gave

shrug of

hundred-dollar I

"Well,

the

something," answered "

shoulders.

Dock,

gave

bill."

think that's a pretty good day's work

for you."

ought to have given

he had given

five

a thousand

thousand

;

and

wouldn't

have

hurt him."

You

"I think a hundred was very handsome.

only pulled out a few rods from the shore, and were

not gone

fifteen minutes."

" That's nothing to

shall

pay

thousand

do with

for it yet.

I'll

;

make

he was mean, and it

him twenty

cost

dollars."

"What do you

mean,

Dock?"

exclaimed

Levi,

suspending his work, and looking up into the sinister face of his companion. " I

mean something,

mysterious look. "

paid

Levi," replied Dock, with

What

did he give you

ten dollars for the dog-fish I

lost,"

answered the young fisherman, evasively.

"Ten I

dollars!

Why, you

didn't her father's.

saved the

girl's

life,

She would have gone down,

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

88 gure

Ten

her. "

the world, before I could have reached

dollars

That was meaner than

dirt."

Well, he did the handsome thing by me," added

Levi, unwilling that Mr. for a single

though

in the

day

Watson should

even

suffer

estimation of his companion,

was not prudent

him

for

to say that

was the happy possessor of two hundred and dollars until the boat

had been purchased.

you to-morrow just what he

Did he give you a thousand

No, he did

Then he was mean.

dollars,

anything

said

How ?

Levi, if

Levi

you want to make

way

of doing

"Will you keep " I

don't

still

about it?"

know whether

will

or not.

whole, I guess I won't have anything to do with

answered Dock's

tell

a low tone.

Dock,

fifty

like it."

a heap of money, I will put you in the it,"

I'll

did."

not, nor

Levi,

schemes

who was for

quite

making

" a

sure

that

heap of

the it,"

any of

money

could not be very honest. " If a

hundred

to have given

dollars

was enough

you a thousand."

for

me, he ought

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "I

don't think so."

" I

do,

and everybody

will

Don't

so.

say

want to go round to Gloucester with me

ner?" continued Dock, tones.

you

after din

the most insinuating of

I'm going round in

schooner, and

can talk over this matter on the way."

"What matter?" "

About the money."

" I

now

;

don't

and

want to if

talk

about

You

satisfied

for

any

without me."

want to understand you,

do any such dirty work

take anything before I

don't understand me, Levi."

" I don't

;

you want to ask Mr. Watson

more money, you must do "

;

as that.

and I would cut

would ask

you are going I felt right

mean hand

to off

for more."

"Will you go round with me, Levi?"

The young fisherman wanted

go to Gloucester,

but he did not wish to have anything to do with

Dock Vincent, who was a dishonest man.

He was

reckless,

dissipated,

and

the owner of a schooner of

seventy tons, in which he carried freights from Rockport and Gloucester to Boston.

was

plain

that

THE STAKRT FLAG, OB

Dock

his

name was Waldock Vincent

full

had

a purpose in his mind, in whose execution he was

anxious to have Levi join him, and which he wished

him on the passage

to discuss with

to the neighbor

ing port.

The young fisherman had no

that

suspicion

his

purpose was anything worse than to ask Mr. Watson

one or two thousand dollars

for

own

his

kept

as a

counsel, and did

well abused if it

for their

Dock

not hint at his real

intentions, not doubting that one

even

reward

rescuing the father and daughter.

services in

his

who had been

uncle was ripe for any scheme,

involved some

What

risk.

Levi regarded

Dock's intention was bad enough, and the brave

morally brave

boy visit

now

finally

refused

even to

Gloucester with the dangerous man.

I'm going to ask him to do what

right,"

added

Dock. "

Ask him

row, "

if I see

for yourself, then, not for

you, I will

tell

me.

To-mor>

you what he gave me."

Well, I want to see you to-morrow about

matter.

thought

I it

think you'll over."

come

it,

after

this

you have

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

I shall not."

"No,

Dock went

off at last, satisfied that

nothing could

be done with Levi at present. "

Ask him it

for

" I should as soon

Levi to himself.

think of asking lars

Humph I wouldn't would give me a million

was sure he

said

dollars,"

more money

Nathan

uncle

a thousand dol

for

Mr. Watson for another hundred.

I'm rich

now." Levi finished his work, and carried the livers he

had obtained to a man

them, and having received the

was a type of the man. building,

fortable.

tumble-down

was

cheerless

Fail-field

and

and uncom

a dollar

They were

them would grumble

sheds

when by

His wife was sharp

could be saved.

close, like himself.

either of

was an unpainted, dingy,

The owner never spent

any expedient and

with

Within

broken fences.

money

for them,

The house of Nathan

went home to dinner.

dilapidated

who bought

the vicinity

all

well mated, and

day over the

loss

or the misuse of a three-cent piece.

The

intelligence of the exciting event off the cliff

had been thoroughly circulated

in the neighborhood,

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

and Levi's uncle and aunt were already informed he had saved the

own

cent, for his

dollars for

sum was enough

this

had declared that Levi

purposes,

had received only ten even

Dock Vin

of Bessie Watson.

life

that

his

but

services;

to excite the cupidity of

his uncle.

His guardian questioned him in regard to

the

and Levi gave a truthful account of the

affair,

rescue of the father and daughter. "

How much

gave

plied Levi,

did he give you ? " asked his uncle.

still

"You've been "Yes,

ten dollars for the

fish

I lost," re

deeming the larger sum a

loan.

selling livers too

you?"

haven't

I have."

sir

"How many

have you sold?"

"All I could

get," replied Levi,

who was

not dis

posed to talk very freely on this subject. "

Answer me

" !

said uncle

much money have you " "

ing

got

Nathan

now ?

sternly.

How

Twenty-one

dollars," replied Levi, desperately.

Twenty-one

dollars

his

deal of

eyes with

money

better give

for a

" !

exclaimed the miser, open

astonishment.

" That's

to have.

I think

boy

to me."

great

you had

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "I

don't think I had.

clothes," said "

You

want

buy some

Levi, firmly.

don't need any clothes.

want you to give

that money."

" I don't "

want

to give

you

;

want

myself."

Levi, I'm your guardeen, and you must give

that money." " "

No,

sir,

I shall not, guardeen or

no guardeen."

Accordin to law, that money belongs to

take care on," said uncle Nathan, angrily. "

You

take too good care of

guardian, but you keep

go ragged.

earned this

No, you are

not.

short,

money

going to get some clothes with "

for

are

and make

and I'm

myself,

it."

I'm not goin to

twenty-one dollars to fool away.

You

me.

Give

let it

you have

to me, this

minute." " I'm willing to

do anything

that's right," replied

Levi, warmly, "but when you get

chickens will "

you

all

Will you give ?

demanded the

towards the boy.

this

money, the

be old hens." to me, or shall I take uncle, fiercely, as

from

he stepped

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

"Neither," answered Levi, retreating to the win

dow. "

You young

deen

villain,

I'll

teach you what a guar-

is."

Uncle Nathan, roused to the highest pitch of rushed forward, and seized Levi by the

collar.

anger,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER

IV.

A PITCHED BATTLE. was alarmed

LEVI

dollars

his

for the

two hundred and

He knew

pocket.

that if

uncle once got his hand upon the money,

be as impossible to remove

back the tide of the a

talent

pockets,

for

sea.

his

would

would be to

Besides, uncle

fifty

roll

Nathan had

getting his hands into other people's

least

a figurative

sense

;

and

in the

present instance the act threatened to be altogether too literal for the safety of Levi's high-wrought vis ions of

owning and

sailing

The

was quite willing to concede to the care of all his

money

his ;

Starry Flag.

uncle's legal right

but there was some

thing wrong, and, being no lawyer, he couldn't exactly

what

tell

was.

Uncle Nathan was so mean and stingy that he was hated and

despised

all

his

neighbors and

THE STAERY FLAG, OB

acquaintances say that as his

food,

and there were plenty of people

;

was a shame

for a

boy

to be brought up

The boy was deprived of propei and education. His home was the

nephew was. clothing,

most disagreeable place he four hours of a

day

;

visited within the twenty-

and Levi, looking

at the pleas

ant dwellings, the happy homes, of other people, could

not help feeling that his lot was hard, and that the sons of even the

common

laborers were

better off

than he was.

Smarting under the general sense of wrong, Levi that

felt

was

his condition.

life,

And now,

duty to do something to better

Boldly and bravely he was doing

He was working forts

his

like a

which

common

his

laborer for the

uncle meanly denied

it.

com him.

to have the fruits of his toil wrested from

him by the same hard hand which had

all

along

robbed him of suitable food and raiment

for

which

his

him.

father's It

estate

was charged

was worth a hard

was

to purchase

The

fight, in his estimation, to

save even the twenty-one dollars, and

save the two hundred and

intolerable

fifty,

Starry Flag.

much more

with which he was

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE AXN.

He was

roused to the highest pitch of anger and

resentment.

was bad enough

as that set before him,

have* his

own money,

to eat such a dinner

and to dress in rags

that for which he

but to

;

had worked

hard, taken from him, roused his indignation to such a

he was ready to be torn in pieces

degree that

rather than yield.

might be law

for his uncle to

take his money, but under the circumstances he that

would not be

" Give

agely, as " Le'

that

justice.

money

" !

said uncle Nathan, sav

he tightened his grasp upon Levi's

alone,"

felt

cried

Levi,

collar.

struggling

cape. "

" I

you alone when you give

let

I'll

won't give you the

replied

money

the money."

I'll

die

first

" !

Levi, giving a desperate spring towards the

middle of the room.

Uncle there

Nathan

was a powerful

man, and

when

was any money concerned he always held on

tight.

Holding the

young man by the

collar,

lie

attempted to thrust his hand into the pocket wherein

had been deposited the dilapidated wallet. *'

Le'

" !

shouted Levi.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

48 "

sakes

exclaimed Mrs.

Fail-field

;

" the boy's

getting worse every year."

Levi doubled himself up in such a

way

as to pre

vent his uncle from reaching his pocket. "

Here, wife, you hold his hands," said the guar

dian, puffing

" Sakes

under the violence of his exertions.

alive

dassn't

tech him," replied

the

matron, timidly approaching the combatants. "

behind him, and get hold of his arms," added

uncle Nathan.

avoid being flanked in this manner, Levi backed

up towards the

him away,

pull

table.

Uncle Nathan attempted to

so as to afford his timid but willing

The boy

ally a

chance to

battle

was going against him, and

for

him

gled,

assist

make a

and twisted.

some measure

final

him.

onslaught.

He jumped

exhausted

his

that the

was necessary

kicked, strugN

up, lay down, and in

persecutor,

relaxed his exertions, though he bull-dog.

felt

still

who had

held on like a

Levi was young and active, and though

breath was neai'ly gone, he declined to suspend

the struggle.

The

resolute youth

had been backed up against the

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. table

where

again,

to hold

him

breath.

his

seemed

Levi renewed

action,

the mansion of ture

in his desperate

had doubled himself up

Fair-field, this

Levi sprang up, he carried

slide

and

piece of furni

was a worn-out and rickety concern

upsetting off

the

upon the

general

among

table,

for final

Like everything else in

leaf.

Nathan

his

with redoubled energy.

table,

to release himself, he

under the extended

moment

to be the

his efforts

His back was against the effort

oppressor wished

moment, while he recovered

for a this

exhausted

the

;

and

leaf

up with him,

all

the dishes to

and causing

floor.

crash

ensued

;

ruin

and

destruction

the dishes followed, which so astonished and

confounded uncle Nathan, that

upon the

little

he loosed his hold

monster, and gazed with horror upon

the wreck, from which Levi extricated himself with all

possible

haste.

Mrs. Fairfield held up both of

her bony hands in grief and

terror,

upon the broken plates and bowls. " " old and black, were

direction.

nicked

They were of

The

she gazed dishes were

and cracked

in every

different colors, sizes,

and

shapes; but they were property, and such a terrible 5

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

devastation filled the miser and his wife with

They gazed upon

the wreck

a dear friend anguish, as though

had been

and sorrow.

sternation real

con

struck dead before their eyes. "

There

" what you've done gasped

see

Nathan, when

his

horror and

uncle

want of breath

his

would permit him to speak. " I didn't

;

you did

retreating towards the back

yourself," replied Levi,

door, so

not to be

flanked again. "

You

angrily, as

didn't

" it,

you whelp

said the guardian,

he stepped towards the panting youth.

No, I didn't

"You must

;

you did

be taken care

yourself." of,

Levi."

" I'd like to be taken care of better than I ever

Was yet ; but

you won't take care of me, I'm

going to take care of myself." "

Now,

Lcvi,

give

that money,"

added uncle

Nathan,

and he looked as though he intended to

renew the

battle,

" and

for the mischief you've

glanced sadly at

the

some of done here

shall

" ;

go to pay

and again he

broken crockery ware which

Mrs. Fairfield was gathering up.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "I'll

pay

for

it,

you'll let

alone,"

answered

Levi, retreating towards the door. "

I'll

let

Do you

you alone when you give me that money

think I'm going to let a boy like you fool

away twenty-one dollars?" "

I'm going to

fool it

away

buying some clothes

that I need."

"No, you

replied

ain't,"

have that money,

the miser,

have to take

"I'll

testily.

out of your

hide."

" See here, uncle Nathan," continued

disagreeable to him,

and

right.

to give

I'll

such a quarrel was intensely

for

conciliatory tone,

Levi, in

" I'm willing to

do what's

fair

give you the money, if you'll agree

me some

decent clothes, and

let

me go

school."

" I won't agree to nothin' of the sort.

belongs to give "

to me,

to I'll

take care on

;

and

you don't

defiantly,

the house.

" I don't

Mrs.

send a constable after you."

Send him along," replied Levi,

left

The money

know what

Fail-field.

we're comin' to

" !

exclaimed

"That boy '11 be the death on

us."

THE STAKKY FLAG, OR

52 "

shall give

that money," replied uncle Na,

than, shaking his head. "

You must

he'll

give

be a

Why

to you.

kinder easy with him

little

gone to bed, and then take "

was done when a boy

me.

shall give it to

you wait

didn't

;

then

till

he'd

out of his pocket?" high time sunthin

It's

him

goin about town

with twenty-one dollars in his pocket." "

Wait

till

goes to bed, and

then you can

git it."

" He'll

before that time.

spend

more idee of the vally of

man

next thing

gamblin

;

shall

and then

money

He must

moon.

in the

be looked

he'll

know,

The boy has no

than he has of the after.

The

be drinkin rum, and

folks will say I didn't take

good

care on him." " "

So they

You must

It'll

cious

spile !

The

will," replied

git

that

money by hook

there ain't Ruel

last

crook.

Goodness gra

the boy, as sure as " !

remark was called forth by the appear

ance of an elderly man,

door

the sympathizing helpmate.

without

the

who had

preliminary

entered the back

of knocking.

Ruel

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. Belcher was Mrs. in his

Sunday

pay

He was

Fail-field's brother.

53 dressed

and apparently he had come

clothes,

She and her husband shook

his sister a visit.

hands with him, and wanted to know what the news

Ruel

was "over to Salem."

news, and

the

told

imparted the gratifying information that his wife and children

and

were

had

good

health,

which uncle Nathan

were glad to "hear on."

his wife

"Go'n

to stop long with

begun

already

us?" asked Nathan, who

think

whether

not

should be obliged to purchase a beefsteak from the

under side of the round to have

my "

a luxury he

was compelled

when company came.

No, I'm going back to-night,

if I

can get through

business," replied Ruel.

Law

sake

you never stop none,"

said Mrs. Fair'

was glad he did not

beef was high.

field.

Mr.

Fail-field

just run

down

collect

some money Dock

Vincent owes me," added Ruel Belcher.

"How much

does he

owe you?" asked

uncle

than, curiously. "

Two

hundred and

fifty dollars.

was

told, if I

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

came down now, I might get do

it,

Dock

it;

and I'm going

have to jug him."

man

a pretty hard

money out

to git

of,"

said Mr. Fairfield.

Levi, I mean."

"Where's your boy? " He's just

gone

out."

Ruel wanted to see him about Dock Vincent, and it

came

out, to the visitor's great astonishment, that

Levi was a very bad

boy

earned twenty-one dollars,

honored guardian.

his

horror, of the

he had Levi.

heard

;

that

He wanted

whole to see

had

actually

and refused to give

the surprise, not to say

"guardeen" and the

his wife, Ruel, after

story,

rather sided

with

the boy, and volunteered

to "talk" with him.

There was nothing in the house eat,

and dinner was delayed.

fit

for a guest to

While Ruel went

look for Levi, uncle Nathan, sorely exercised

by the

bitter necessity, started for the provision store in the village to procure a slice of beefsteak

from the under

side of the round.

As Levi walked away from the

two hundred

and

the house, he

seventy-one

dollars

felt

that his

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

pocket was not safe upon his person. the very action which Mrs. Fairfield therefore he

went down

anticipated

had suggested

to the rocky cove

kept his dory, and concealed

;

where he

with great care in

the crevice of a rock, upon which he heaped a pile

of stones.

Before he

had

Belcher joined treated

fully

him,

him very

completed

shook

hands

the

Ruel

work,

with

and

him,

kindly.

"I hear you have twenty-one

dollars, Levi," said

Ruel, laughing. "I have,

buy some

and I mean to keep

at least

till

I can

clothes and things I want," replied Levi.

Ruel did not blame him; he gave him some good advice,

man,

and even volunteered to

arid

"Now,

" talk "

with the old

induce him to do better by his nephew. I

want to

find

Dock Vincent,

Levi," said

Ruel. " He's going

schooner

to Gloucester

this

afternoon

his

there she lays," replied Levi, pointing ta

the vessel. " it

He owes me some money, and

to-day."

I'm going to get

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

56 "

can pay you, I guess

;

he made a hundred

dollars this morning."

"I'm glad

to hear that."

"How much does he owe you?" "Two hundred and fifty dollars." The young fisherman glanced

asked Levi.

at the

heap of stones

under which the price of The Starry Flag was con cealed,

and perhaps thought

owed Ruel

just that

sum.

little

odd that Dock

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF

CHAPTER

CAPJS AKJ*.

57'

LEVI FAIRFIELD'S CHAMBER. gave Rucl Belcher such information as he

LEVI needed ability

dred and

"Now, and then

its

Dock's vessel, and the

regard to

owner

pay a just debt of two hun

fifty dollars.

Levi,

go up and get some dinner,

will

I will attend to Dock's case," said Ruel.

"I think while.

not go up to the house yet a

shall

Uncle Nathan

will give

fits if

"No, he won't: you must have your "If I've

I don't

have

gone without

"Do you mean

it,

this

I do."

dinner."

won't be the

first

time

dinner."

to say that your uncle

would not

give you your dinner?"

"Well, I there

of us."

isn't

sit

down

enough

the table it

for

me,

sometimes when let

alone

three

THK STAEKY FLAG, OK

"I know he

"Mean!

mean."

That word

isn't

you want to on that

"He would

emphasis.

the grease out

subject,"

replied

Levi, with

wooden skewer

boil a

to get

I suppose, if I should starve

it.

would have the money that

death, he

big enough to say what

coming

to me." "

course he don't

mean anything

"I don't know that he does, but he would cry his eyes out

"Perhaps help you

much about It

it,

doing

should die to-night."

if I

wouldn't

do anything to

now.

I don't like to say

but I don't always get enough to

scrimp,

scrimp, scrimp, from

end to the other.

I've

as I'm

to.

long

I don't believe

off."

"I think he

eat.

but he

not,

of that sort."

going

stood this thing I

money about me, and when

mean there's

one year's about as

have a

little

no meat on the

bones at home, I'm going up to the eating-house,

and have

dinner."

"Don't you make

out a

little

worse than

Levi?"

"No,

sir!

I haven't told

you

half."

it is,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "

The

Perhaps they do

;

but I'd

have company

like to

the year round," added Levi.

all

enough when

live well

been here."

I've

always seem to

folks

"I'll

inquire

you

will help

"I'll

into

this

find

business before I go, Levi,

Dock Vincent

after dinner."

be here when you come down."

"No, go up

and

have

your

dinner,"

persisted

Ruel.

Nathan for

want to make any

don't will

only

let

If uncle

trouble.

alone, I

will

look

out

myself."

"He

will."

Levi was persuaded to go to the house, and in

due time was '<

helped

under side of the

erman thought there

was none,

Ruel was the

affray in

a small

round ;

portion

and the

of the

young

fish

was a great deal tougher where

as his experience fully demonstrated.

a hurry, and nothing was said about the kitchen;

was

left till

the more

important business of the day had been disposed

of.

After dinner Levi showed Ruel where to find hia debtor,

and he found him;

but Dock declined to

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

pay.

Dock's

a writ issued, and

lawyer was obtained,

was

vessel

on the point of starting

was going

for

Gloucester,

five

and

sailed

for

the

money

afternoon, he

the

destined

his his

paid the

When

port.

pocket, he

Salem that

to return to

danger of losing a profitable job;

and, about

where

Dock was

to load a freight for Boston.

mad; he was

he was

duly attached, just

found

night,,

Ruel had

was too

debt

late

and he was compelled

to accept the hospitality of his brother-in-law.

Levi had no opportunity to

visit

Gloucester and

buy The Starry Flag that day, but he determined the

get up before daylight

walk over, so

going down " Have you talked in

tide

have

morning, and

the

advantage

of the

the bay.

Ruel ?

him,"

replied

to that boy,

said uncle

Nathan, after supper.

"Yes,

said

nothin

"He tip

needs

seein

with

him,"

finds

fault

;

he's

added

with

the

Levi.

brother-in-law, glancing "

something

his

got the

can't

guardian,

victuals,

dandy, and tips the table

sternly.

wants to dresa over."

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "I

didn't tip

over," said Levi, as calmly as

could.

"Don't

me!"

tell

"Well,

didn't,

uncle

Nuthan,"

the

protested

young fisherman. "

Don't deny

"You "

me on

pushed

Do you

You know you

sir.

again,

did

" !

it."

" added uncle Nathan, hear that, Ruel ?

appealing to the

visitor.

He He

though I wan't nobody.

what a guardeen

contradicts

don't seem to

just as

know

for."

" I think I do," replied Levi, significantly.

"That

boy's got twenty-one dollars in his pocket;

and he won't give "

Let him have

"Let him have

it it

to me."

then," laughed Ruel.

it!"

exclaimed Mr. Fairfield, with

an exhibition of something like horror on his skinny face.

"Yes,

let

him have

and ought to

"He "I

it.

know enough

fifteen

not to fool

years' old,

away."

don't."

only

want

Levi.

buy some

clothes,"

added

THE STABKY FLAG, OS

"He Up

don't need no clothes.

He's got a good

suit

stairs."

don't he

"Why

"Them's

his

"I want

wear

Sunday

it,

then?" suggested Ruel.

clothes."

put them on for every day," added

Levi.

"To go

a fishin and

Mrs.

lated

work

in the

Sakes

Fairfield.

dirt

alive!

in!"

ejacu

are

I shall

put

what

comin to!"

"I want to wear them about town; on

old clothes to fish in," said Levi.

"You

Them you

don't need no clothes.

got on

good enough," protested the miser. " I

don't

think

they

are,

Nathan,"

added RueL

"They are nothing but rags and tatters. He went down town with me to-day, and I'm free to say I was ashamed of "

his looks."

Well, he ought to put on his best clothes when

we have company." "I don't know as about

want to say anything more

now," said Ruel, glancing at Levi.

you don't agree very things any worse."

well,

and

I don't

want

"I to

see

make

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "He's a bad boy; if

to,

ain't

something

know what

I don't

think he should keep that

him

to give

"I guess

I'll

had something

Fairfield.

money when

I told

me, his guardeen."

go to bed; I'm going to get up

continued Levi,

pretty early,"

he's corain

added Mr.

done,"

say which

who saw he

that Rue!

not wish to

did

say before him.

know

don't

was no

spare

"Yes, we have, Levi. "

It's

got room enough for

you've

suggested the

to-night,"

there

room

that

in the house.

you are

willin to

sleep with

a wide bed," added Mrs. Fairfield.

O, yes, I can sleep with Levi,

"You

who knew

visitor,

welcome to

are

sleep with

willing."

me,"

replied

Levi.

Uncle Nathan looked as though

much

difference

did not

make

whether he was willing or not, and

Levi went to his room, leaving Ruel Belcher,

whom

he already regarded as his friend, to plead his cause before his uncle

Ruel was

and aunt.

faithful to the

knew Nathan

Fairfield well

duty of the hour.

enough to believe that

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

the

complaints, had

his

Levi, in

and he was sorry to be compelled

truth;

acknowledge that of her husband. affairs,

no more than

uttered

his

sister

had adopted the views

spoke very plainly of the boy's

and declared that he had a right to be sup

ported in a manner corresponding to his property.

The guardian

He was

listened

impatiently to the reproof.

angry that his brother-in-law, for whose use

and benefit he

had

actually

expended

twenty-five

cents in the purchase of a slice of the "under side

of the round," should presume to take part with the boy, and

condemn

his

guardian.

was

impolite

and imgrateful. "

I'm saying Avhat I do for your sake quite as

as for the boy's," protested Kuel, his advice

was ungraciously

"You're takin

him "

to treat

when he found

that

received.

sides Avith the boy, as

much

and encouragin

he does," replied Mr.

Fail-field.

Levi says he won't stand this any longer

;

and

if 1

" There's

know human

nature,

fight in him,

and he can make a good deal of trouble

lie

won't,"

added Ruel.

for you."

"Sho!" exclaimed the matron.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

made

"He's

trouble

enough already," added her

husband. "

can go to the probate court, or get somebody it

him; and

for

the judge

he -can prove half he says,

would remove you

so quick

would make

your head swim," added Ruel, decidedly.

"You "I

don't say!"

ain't

afeerd of nothin of that sort," said

" He's a

than.

ejaculated Mrs. Fairfield.

bad boy.

Why,

fit

tiger to-day." " All this is

you

none of

business

but I give

;

advice that you had better not meddle

If he earns any money, let

with him.

him have

it."

"Let him keep the twenty-one dollars?"

"Yes; and it

well, let

see

what he does with

him have what he

"Ruel Belcher, you

If he uses

it.

earns."

don't understand

said Nathan, impressively.

" I tell

that

you

boy!"

he's a

bad

boy, and he's goin to ruin as fast as he can go."

"Let him

alone,

and then we

spends his earnings foolishly, to stop

him

shall

will

see.

be time enough

then."

" He'll fool

away every cent of 6*

If he

that money."

THE STABBY FLAG, OR

"Wait and to

chair.

I think I'm about tired

see.

bed now," added Ruel,

"I've got considerable

know; do you think "I s'pose

his

money about me, you

be safe?"

There's nobody here to steal

will be.

and I'm afeerd he

unless Levi does;

it,

will

rising

enough

from

ain't

none

too good to do sich a thing." "

O, Levi

honest

"I hope he

" !

replied Ruel.

added uncle Nathan.

is,"

Ruel Belcher took a lamp and went up to the little,

Levi's

low, dingy chamber, which had served before

advent into the family as a " spare room,"

though, since

had been devoted to the use of the

ward, most of the furniture had been removed, or

exchanged

for

meaner

articles

from other parts of the

house. "

Asleep, Levi ?

asked the guest, as he entered

the room.

"No,

sir,

not yet."

"Well, I've

been talking over your

your uncle, and I hope you will have complain," added Ruel

he hardly believed

he hoped

would be

so.

so,

affairs

less

with

reason to

perhaps, but

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "I am much obliged " I

Levi.

to you, I'm sure," answered

only want what

work

willing to

has

and

fair

I'm

right.

board, thongh uncle Nathan

for

an allowance of three

dollars

week

for

support." "I

know he does

will;

I don't

be peaceable, Levi,

want

"I've got considerable

you think

will

you

can."

have any trouble."

money about me, Levi; do

safe ?

continued Ruel, changing

the subject.

don't

" I guess

know who it

will

could take all right.

I'll

here."

put

under

pillow."

Ruel deposited

his wallet

and got into bed.

He was

the

tired,

place indicated,

and

time both he and Levi were sound asleep.

hour

later

of both

and

before

after

fumbling over the

his

garments

the sleepers for some time, he retired as

noiselessly as

What

Half an

Nathan entered the room

uncle

stocking-feet,

a short

he had entered.

other

the

events

dawn

one in the house.

transpired

of the

that

chamber

day were known to no

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

At his

four

o'clock

Levi got up, dressed himself

best clothes, and left the

i:i

room without waking

Ruel Belcher.

When

the

hundred and

guest rose, fifty dollars

two hours was gone!

later,

his

two

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER WHO was

IThis

six

VI.

STOLE THE WALLET?

o'clock

when Ruel Belcher

bed, and wondered

how he

rose from

could have slept

and ex

so long; but he concluded that the fatigue

citement of collecting a bad

and

he was

upon

his

dressing he

good fortune

considering the

debt were the cause, congratulated himself

obtaining his

character and

man.

carpenter, and

The two hundred and

happy

so.

;

and

Ruel was a

by no means a fifty

was a large sum of money to him

had no expectation of

money

antecedents of Dock,

he had abundant reasons for doing hard-working

collecting

it,

rich

dollars, therefore, ;

and

he had

he was peculiarly

in its possession.

As he put on

his clothes,

ing what a pleasure

he could not help think

would be to

he had the money in his pocket

;

tell his

and

wife that

as the thought

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

passed through his mind, he

went

he had

the pillow under which

raised

bed and

to the

placed

his

wallet.

was not

there.

Ruel was alarmed.

the bedclothes, turned

shook

bolster,

pulled out the pillows and

the mattress,

and searched in every place he could think of the lost treasure.

What

in despair.

wife

it.

was

Ruel was

certainly gone.

a story this would be to

tell

his

cheap and mean to think he had

felt

been " smart " then lost

for

enough to

collect the

money, and had and then

finished dressing himself,

made another thorough

for

the wallet, but

with no better success than before.

He went down

loss,

wallet

Fairfield

came

loss to

must be somewhere

in,

it.

and, being informed of

he went up and searched for

was not

;

but the

to be found.

" I can't think what's field,

his

room, and she went up and searched for

Then Mr. the

and announced

She was quite sure

his sister. in the

stairs,

become

on't," said

Mrs. Fair-

greatly perplexed.

"Nor

either,"

replied

Ruel.

"I was dreaming

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. of

that

money

seemed to

last

now

night,

think of

I got scared about

it.

had an idea

some one was coming into the room to take

away

from me." asleep," suggested Mrs. Fair-

"Perhaps you wasn't field,

glancing at her husband.

O, I slept like a rock.

I didn't

from the time I went to sleep

till

know

six

a thing

o'clock this

morning," added Ruel. "

Perhaps you kinder half waked up when Nathan

went

into your room," continued the matron.

"Did he come "Yes, I went

into the in

room?"

about 'leven o'clock," added Mr.

Fail-field.

Well, I didn't hear you."

"Perhaps you

sort

thought you dreamed " It

What

may have been did you

come

it,"

so,

waked, and, seem' Nathan, explained Mrs. Fairfield.

but I don't think

into the

room

for,

was.

Nathan ?

asked Ruel. " I

hope you don't think I took your money

exclaimed Mr. Fairfield. "

course I don't think anything of that sort."

* !

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

had robbed

his brother-in-law

Rucl did not believe

him, though he could not help thinking that such a

thing was possible with a

Nathan "I'll

man who

loved

money

did.

you how

tell

not

Fairfield,

embarrassed

little

continued Mr.

was, Ruel,"

by the circum "

stances which appeared to conspire against him. Levi's guardeen,

much "

him

for

So do

justify

think twenty-one dollars

Mrs. Fairfield, willing

interposed

" It's

husband.

behave as he does.

He knows

now, and

ain't

ruin right

off."

" I didn't

no how

gone to

;

too

to have."

I,"

her

sunthin

sleep.

That's

fool

for

more'n

done, the

mean Lcvi should

and I went up

shame

his

it,

uncle

boy'll

away

stairs for

him

that money, after

he had

the long and short of the

whole matter." "That's the truth, you his

may depend

upon't,"

added

sympathizing spouse.

"Did you "No, " I

get the

I didn't."

suppose not."

money?" asked

Ruel, curiously

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. " I

sarched

pockets, but

his

all

couldn't

find

nothin on't." "

Levi

What

" After

a fool," added Ruel.

isn't

force,

do you mean by that tried to take his

you

But

money's gone,

should

Levi's

it.

and

Mr.

what has become

know

on't,"

added Mrs.

and none of the winders has

I can't see through

at all."

I nuther," said Mr. Fail-field.

a sight of

fifty dollars is

know something about " I don't

I'd

Fail-field.

money

"Where's Levi?" asked Ruel.

up.

nor there

Nobody couldn't git into the house to The doors were all bolted this mornin just

been teched.

Nor

isn't,

and

into the

as I left 'em last night,

money away from him

it."

said

I,"

" I can't think

steal

demanded Nathan.

that's neither here

what has become of

Fairfield.

he wouldn't be likely to bring

house again.

"So

know.

s'pose

it.

Where

gone

off

after

hundred

to lose."

"Perhaps he is

I hain't seen the

he's

Two

will

he?" boy sence I got

dog-fish,"

replied

Mrs. Fairfield.

hain't

seen

him 7

nuther,"

added her husband.

THE STAKKY FLAG, OR

74 " I

went down

about house

after sunthin to eat,

been

hain't

just now."

till

Nathan had

tlncle

and

actually purchased another slice

from the under side of the round, that morning, and the ingratitude of his brother-in-law in

after

siding

with Levi, taking twenty-five cents from his pocket for

such a purpose was

out

taking

the best

tooth in his head.

Ruel was nervous and uneasy about

He hoped

Levi might

not

there that

proved

;

money.

know something about

he went to the cove to see

was

his

but

the

he was there.

and

Levi

dory was, which

dingy

he had not gone

it,

after

dog-fish.

seven o'clock the young fisherman had not returned.

When

Mrs. Fairfield went up stairs to

saw the

she

closet

clothes

of Levi

the bed,

hanging

the

and then she made the astounding discovery

;

that he "

old

make

had dressed himself

What

can

mean

had announced the

in his

Sunday

suit.

exclaimed she, after

significant

fact

she

her husband

and the guest. " It field.

means that he has gone

off,"

replied Mr. Fair-

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. '

* "

Gone

Run

off!

repeated Ruel.

away," added Nathan.

Perhaps he

W~hy didn't

round town somewhere now."

What

I guess not.

did he dress himself up for

come home

dressed up for company, the

company ?

piling

why

continued

breakfast

If he

don't he stay and see

the

guardian

Levi,

his interrogatory arguments, until the poor

boy seemed to be crushed and condemned beneath the weight of them.

There was something tones

and the

triumph apparent in the

manner of Nathan

Fail-field,

heaped up the evidence against his nephew. could not think now, with JLevi's guilt,

Ids

money.

;

had

Ruel

these indications of

all

his brother-in-law

Besides, he

evening

preceding

boy

that he

had taken

labored hard on the

show that Levi was a bad

Ruel would not believe

it,

and

was pleasant

have his statement proved to be correct, especially

at the " I

expense of the unbeliever. didn't think

musing.

Levi was a bad boy," said Ruel,

didn't

rather liked him."

seem

one to me, and I

THE STARRY FLAG, OK

" I cal'late you'll believe

what

" Levi's a

replied Nathan.

another

I say

bad boy; and no one can

he's been tell what'l]

goin on from bad to wus,

till

become on him.

you know what's come of

I s'pose

your money now." " I

hope Levi didn't take

he really did hope

even while

so,

impossible to doubt the "

him run on any

"What

seemed

;

and

to be

fact.

That boy must be taken care

to let

answered Ruel

it,"

longer,"

'Tain't

on.

no use

added the guardian.

we do?"

can

must

find

him

first.

have him taken up, and then

think we'd

can

tell

better

what's best

to be done," replied Nathan. " Before

we do

town, and see " lie

ain't

He's gone

we can town

better look round

find him."

now, you may depend

on't.

off."

Ruel was not so in

we had

that,

positive,

and an hour was spent

searching the vicinity for the fugitive.

not to be found, and by nine o'clock

He was

a warrant for

the arrest of Levi, on the charge of robbing his bed fellow

of two hundred and

fifty

dollars,

was taken

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. 'jiit,

and placed

in the

hands of an

went to Gloucester

diately

officer,

who imme

in search of the alleged

robber.

Nathan

on that day,

for

Ruel Belcher appeared to be quartered upon him

for

Fairfield

several days

;

groaned in

and what pounds of the under

the round he would consume

hot biscuit he would devour tea he

spirit

would pour down

sugar he would use

What

was

side of

quantities of

ounces of cheap

spoonfuls of

brown

really appalling,

and

not even the satisfaction of proving that Levi was a rascal could

compensate

the

such an inroad .upon his

Leaving him to groan in anguish

domestic economy. over his visitor's

for

terrific

whom

youth, over

unfortunate

appetite,

will return to

the

clouds

wrath were gathering thick and black. Levi got up at daylight, and dressed himself in his

best

hoped

clothes,

that

have some permit in

him

peace.

interest

the effect

the visit

for

influence

upon

of Ruel

his lot

;

Belcher

and to enjoy

grateful

his extra earnings

the guest

he had manifested in him, and

would

that his uncle would

to have felt

Gloucester.

for

the

THE STARKY FLAG, OR

dared to do

so,

he would have told him

money he had

the

about

all

concealed in the rocks, and

all

about his plan to buy The Starry Flag.

Levi dressed himself very carefully, so as not to

disturb the visitor.

had seemed

leave him, for Ruel

The

be sold

Starry Flag might

delay.

away and

did not like to go

a friend

like if

but

;

was any

there

Besides, he hoped to return before the guest

departed, and thus secure his influence in reconciling his

new

guardian to the

he descended the

stairs,

With

boat.

and

left

a light

step

the house, passing

out through the cellar door, which fastened with a

wooden spring

;

for,

when Ruel had

about him, he did not think

was

much money

safe to leave the

back door unbolted.

The thought inquire

whether

the

his

own was

out doors, because

money made him

guest's

would

safe.

He had

more secure

under the same roof with his guardian

hastened

his

;

than

but he had

Dock Vincent might have watched

some doubts.

him when he concealed the into

left

throat

down

the

wallet.

His heart rose

the very thought cove.

;

but

The cache he had

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

made had not been

and

disturbed,

after

removing

the stones he had heaped upon

it,

he took the wallet

from the crevice in the rock.

was

right,

and

leaped with exultant joy.

his heart

With

all

a light step he

walked through the

and took the road to Gloucester. along, bright visions lighted

village,

As he trudged

his vivid imagination,

and he pictured to himself the pleasure he should

The

derive from sailing

did not treat

enjoy his

own

the boat;

him

Starry Flag.

well, or

If his uncle

would not allow him to

earnings, he could even live on board

there

for

was a cuddy large enough

for

to sleep in.

There would be an " awful tempest," when uncle

Nathan found he had bought the boat was prepared

He was

the worst.

for

;

but Levi

determined

down " any longer. If his guar make a man of him, he would make

not to be " ground dian would not a

man

of himself.

Thus dreaming of the his

mind

for the

Gloucester,

and thus preparing

wrath of his guardian, he entered

and soon

Starry Flag lay.

future,

found

the wharf where

The

THE STARRY FLAG, OH

CHAPTER

VII.

OFF EASTERN POINT.

was half past

ITFairfield suspicious

five in

the morning

reached the wharf in Gloucester, mischief

of the

which

his

departure from home was to occasion.

Flag lay in olent

all

unexplained

The

Starry

the water near the shop of her benev

builder,

work.

when Levi

who had

As nothing

not yet come to his daily

could be

done to forward the

business, Lcvi devoted himself to an examination of

the beautiful

Hauling in the painter, he went

craft.

on board, and carefully scrutinized every part of her.

The rigged,

two

Starry Flag was

twenty-one feet long, sloop

and had a cuddy forward, which contained

berths.

She was

built

the most substantial

manner, and had already proved herself to be a

and stanch sea-boat. heavy

sea,

and

She worked admirably

was even

said

that

stiff'

she could be

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. worked to windward under her

was not what would be

she

she had no

work,

mahogany

with

her.

little

was her

panels,

yacht;"

elaborate

She was

brass

and

plain

no "gingerbread work" about

fine

model, and her graceful sitting

upon the water, that made her a beautiful Levi glowed with boat

It is true

called a "fancy

no gilded figure-head.

neat,

jib alone.

craft.

enthusiasm as he surveyed the

he examined the construction and arrange^

ment of everything about

her.

cuddy, which was just high to sit

down on

craft,

was

crawled into the

enough to permit him

the berth, though, for the size of the quite

roomy apartment, and

large

enough to accommodate himself and one other very comfortably.

was not furnished, and while

the

prospective owner of The Starry Flag was debating

with himself whether he should spend his twenty-one dollars in the purchase of a couple of mattresses, or in

procuring a suit of clothes, he heard a step upon

the wharf. "

What

are

you doing

in that boat ?

demanded

the owner.

"I was only looking

at her," replied Levi.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

82 "

allow folks

don't

on board of

her,

unless

they want to buy her."

"That's just

case,"

added Levi,

he stepped

upon the wharf. " I reckon

talking

you don't exactly know what you are

about,"

Mr. Hatch, the builder, as he

said

measured the boy from head to foot with his eye.

"I reckon

do,

Mr. Hatch.

Rockport on purpose to buy her, have her

for what's

came over from

you

will let

about right."

"You?" " I'm your

don't

man, Mr. Hatch.

know me.

fair price,

If you

want to buy

" I rather

think

want

know

you, if you

to sell this boat for a

her."

she will cost

too

much

for you.

She's a nice boat." " I

buy

know her.

she

;

and

I shouldn't

that's the reason I

want her

want

she wasn't a nice

What do you ask for her?" " Two hundred and and fifty

boat.

;

she's

as cheap as

dirt at that."

"Won't you take two hundred "I won't take a cent less than

for

her?"

I said, for

you

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE AWN. the

'money

new church

the

for

over in

your

town."

Levi offered two hundred and twenty-five

Mr. Hatch thought

would be

ury of the Lord" to take anything price,

and he was

"Til take her, cised

but

than the

less

inflexible. sir,"

said Levi,

when he had exer

Yankee shrewdness

his

all

;

" the treas cheating

make

in trying to

a good bargain.

"It seems to boat like

me you

this," said

"Perhaps suppose that

all

"Well, no; that don't very often

I've

isn't

all

got the money, and I

I want.

and

spend

right before I let her go.

boat,

"You

are not Captain Fail-field's sir;

you

fifty dollars it's

What's your name?"

Fairfield."

I live at

want to know that

"Levi

"Yes,

Boys

have two hundred and

all

buy a

you want," answered Levi.

for

young

the builder, good-naturedly.

am; but

are pretty

boy

Rockport with

are

you?"

uncle

than."

"Yes, I know you do; and I don't know as that helps

the

matter much," added Mr. Hatch, with a

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

"Nathan

chuckle.

significant

dian and I suppose

jump over

the

moon

"I "

didn't give

supposed

Where

would be

"Mr. Ames, the

drowning; but

minister,

to give

boat-builder.

it.

Levi,"

right,

and told

afternoon,

the

money ?

Levi explained where he got all

him

this boat."

laughed

not,"

it's

for

to me."

did you get the

"I guess

your guar

would be just about as easy to

you money enough to buy

"He

Fail-field's

added Mr. Hatch.

was over here yesterday boy saved

from

girl

had no idea you were the young

fellow."

"Mr. Watson to

buy

matter "

this boat, is

Then

\vith

all

Avill

yours.

make out

was made

two hundred and

The

and you may depend upon

the boat

bill

have the money on purpose it,

fifty

out,

Come a

bill

into

the

shop

of sale of her."

and Levi paid over the

dollars,

with the feeling that

Starry Flag was dog-cheap at that price.

Hatch was much

vhen the

the

straight."

me, and I

The

let

trade

pleased with

Mr.

the purchaser, and

was completed, he

invited

him

THE YOUXG FISHERMAN OF CAPE AXN.

Levi accepted the invita

take breakfast with him.

and finding a much better table than that to

tion,

which he was accustomed dian, he did

at the

house of his guar

ample justice to the generous fare of his

host.

the

Though

stores

Levi, anxious

were now open in the town, the depart

reach Rockport before

ure of Ruel Belcher, concluded to defer the purchase

of his

clothes

could

now

pushed

off,

started

embarked

exultation,

another day.

till

call

his

own,

the cast

of joy and

Full

which

boat,

the

off

painter,

and with the best wishes of Mr. Hatch, his

voyage round the cape.

The

tide

was

going out, but there was hardly a breath of wind to swell the sails he spread.

outside

of the

harbor,

Unless he found a breeze

could

hardly

expect

reach Rockport before afternoon; but he hoped for the best.

With

a fresh wind the boat

would make

the distance in a couple of hours.

When two

hours had elapsed,

had hardly reached Norman the

entrance

now no

Woe

The

of Gloucester Harbor.

possibility of getting

home

Starry Flag

Reef, which

lies at

there

was

before the depart-

THE STAKKY FLAG, OR

ure of Ruel, the

of doing

so,

young fisherman gave up the hope

and began to consider how he should

conduct his defence before his guardian.

him

which he recognized

lay a small schooner,

Griffin,

Dock

Vincent's

Ahead of as the

She had probably

vessel.

been becalmed during the night, and could not get

up the bay against the

tide.

Levi did not care to meet Dock just then, espe the

cially after

his

collecting

avoid him the boat

;

assistance

debt.

he had rendered Ruel

He wanted

sheer

off,

and

but there was not a particle of wind, and

was

drifting helplessly with the tide,

bore him directly alongside of the "Hallo, Levi!

What

are

which

Griffin.

you doing here?" de

manded Dock, from the deck of

his vessel.

"Going home." "Is that The Starry Flag?"

"Yes."

"What

are

you doing with her?"

"I've bought her,

and

she's

Levi, with a feeling of pride

"Have

and

mine now," replied satisfaction.

you, though?"

"Just bought her, and paid for her."

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

"Come

aboard

will

you?

want to

talk with

you," added Dock.

can't stop

"You might

now;

want to get home."

stop where

well

When

of wind comes.

breeze

you are

till

you get outside of

Eastern Pint, the tide will set you back." Le1*i

knew

this to

side the Griffin.

true,

Dock

and he hauled up along

did not manifest any resent

ment towards him on account of the

debt,

and Levi

wished to inform nim what Mr. Watson had done, in order to free the rich

tion of

merchant from the imputa

meanness which Dock cast upon him.

"So you've bought The Starry Flag have you?" when Levi stepped upon the deck

continued Dock, ^i

of the Griffin.

"I have her.

gave two hundred and

I promised to tell

fifty

dollars for

you to-day what Mr.

Wat

son did for me."

"He did

fifty dollars

he?"

"He take

gave you two hundred and

offered to give it to for picking

of him."

me, but I didn't

up a drowning

girl

;

like to

so I borrowed

THE STAKUY

"Borrowed

it!

tfLAG,

sneered Dock.

"That man

you a thousand

dollars at the

were a

let

fool

him

are

you

Levi,

say,

ought

fool!"

have given

very least;

off for

anything

and you less

than

that."

"If I

satisfied

with what he has done, I don't

think anybody else has a right to complain," replied Levi, with considerable spirit.

For an hour, Dock labored to convince the young fisherman that he had been grievously wronged and

cheated by the wealthy merchant from Boston; but Levi,

happy

the possession

ing

any

thing," in his opinion, dissatisfaction,

Starry Flag,

Mr. Watson had done "the

refused to be convinced.

handsome

The

and so

he was

far

from

feel

deeply grateful

him.

"If you don't know your

rights,

Levi,

going to teach you," continued Pock. to your

He lent

own

story,

paid you ten

Watson dollars

you two hundred and

didn't give

for the

fish

"According you anything.

you

lost,

and

fifty dollars."

"I don't suppose he expects me Ivhat I borrowed,

I'm not

but I mean to do

pay him back

so,"

added Levi,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

"Then Watson

you anything?"

"No, but "That's

didn't give

want to know.

all

Now,

Levi, I've got

a bone to pick with you."

"What's that?"

"You

served

"I didn't

mean

trick yesterday."

you any mean

serve

trick,"

protested

Levi. '

Yes, you did

you helped Belcher get that money

;

out of me."

"You owed " That's

money trip

till

didn't

you?"

I get ready.

know

was a

friend of mine,

a good turn

Without claiming

like to

pay

just where I can

you up, Levi, and I'm going to do

willing to "

him

none of your business ; I don't

think you

it.

used

and would be

you got a chance."

to be your friend, I'm willing

do you a good turn now," replied Levi.

"You

are not;

you had

told

looking for me, I could have kept his

way.

instead

You

didn't

of me.

Belcher was vessel out of

you helped Belcher,

don't find no fault, Levi;

have chosen for yourself.

it;

you

you don't want any-

THE STAKBY FLAG, OK

thing

of me, I don't want anything of you.

I'm

your enemy now."

"If you

are, I can't

help

it."

"You'll get tripped up."

"If I am, I lightly as

such a " If

will

pick

myself up," said Leyi, as

he could; but he did not

man

Dock

for

an enemy.

you have a mind to join

in a little plan

of mine that won't hurt nobody, I will

"I won't join you who, being honest,

felt

to have

any plan," interposed Levi, that

he could afford to be

independent.

"Just as you

like,

Levi; but look out for break

ers!" said Dock, with a threatening shake of his

head.

"There's a breeze coming, and I guess

added Levi, as he jumped into

I'll

off,"

his boat.

"Just remember what I've said to you; and when

you want to see me, I'm round," said Dock.

The

Starry

Flag caught the

coming wind, and went

off

first

breath

of the

towards Eastern Point.

Levi was annoyed by the threats of Dock, but he

was resolved to be honest

and

true,

come what

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. might come.

The boat worked

well,

and

she

was rounding the Point, Levi was rather pleased to see a schooner boat

making towards him,

for it

gave

him the promise of a race.

That schooner boat contained the constable, with a

warrant in his pocket for the arrest of Levi

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

CHAPTER

VHI.

THE TEMPEST AND THE WRECK.

FAIRFIELD

LEVI tempest

had

was brewing over him

that

and of which the constable in was the forerunner to

see

that a

west,

which

Flag,

if it

of the

suspicion at

home,

schooner

the

boat

but he was weatherwise enough

;

literal

might

storm

try

was gathering

the

nerves of

The

the

Starry

did not those of her bold-hearted skipper.

The wind was now blowing

a gentle breeze

from

the eastward, but vast volumes of dense black clouds

were piling up in the opposite quarter. squally-looking clouds, and even a salt

less

than the young fisherman might

that there

was wind

mined

danger, and

keep his weather-eye open

with deep interest

experienced

have known

in them.

There was no present to "

They were

the

Levi,

tight,"

movement of

deter

watched

the schooner

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

by getting the breeze sooner than the

boat, which,

Flag, had

within a quarter of a mile.

approached

She was evidently following him, and he could con ceive of no other purpose on the part of her skipper " with him. than that of " trying a race

Levi had a great deal of confidence in the sailing qualities of his boat

the northward

satisfaction

that

after holding

a time, he

for

had

his course

the

intense

of finding that the other boat did not

gain upon him. at

and

;

distance,

But the race was not as

would be

with

and he put

his

abreast of each other;

so exciting,

the

boats

helm down,

throwing the Flag up into the wind for the purpose of waiting for his rival to

come

up.

The schooner boat bore down upon him, and

in a

few moments was within hailing distance, the boat

man prudently keeping her

well to windward, for he

seemed to comprehend the the faster craft of the two. abreast -of him, Levi filled

fact

that the Flag

When

away

was

she was fairly

again,

and began to

be quite excited as the race opened. "

Levi " !

boat,

shouted

when he saw

the

constable

that the chase

was

the schooner off again.

THE STAEKY FLAG, OB

" Schooner

ahoy

shouted Levi, in reply.

"Levi!" repeated the " Hallo

" !

officer.

replied Levi,

now

recognizing Mr. Gayles,

the constable, but without the remotest idea that the

was

officer

" I

want to

"Want

him

after

in his official capacity.

see you,"

added Mr. GayJes.

don't

to race

"I'm

after you."

"All

right,"

you?"

answered Levi,

who

interpreted this

remark to mean that he wished to catch him, nautically

speaking.

Come

along

I'm

all

ready

for

you."

The Flag gathered headway, and began away from the schooner boat

at a rate

run

which proba

bly astonished the skipper of the latter as it

much

delighted the skipper of the former. Hold on, Levi ! " cried the constable.

" Can't stop," replied the hilarated

by the

young fisherman, so ex

race that he could think of nothing

else.

If he had been guilty of any crime, he might have

thought that the constable was after him.

He knew

Mr. Gayles very well; indeed, he was the map who

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. bought the dog-fish to prove fastest

livers

of him, and he was anxious

him that The Starry Flag was "the

boat out."

certainly established the fact

that she could outsail the schooner boat, for in half

an hour she was a quarter of a mile ahead of her rival,

and the parties were no longer within speaking of each other.

distance

relative positions, the

the

sails

While they were

wind suddenly died

of both napped loosely from the

in these

and

out, gaffs.

The black and angry clouds were travelling rapidly up to the zenith. The morning had been intensely warm, and the

air

was " close

and oppressive.

was one of those days which seem to in the elements

with a

squall,

;

invite a tumult

one of those days which wind up

Both

a hurricane, or an earthquake.

the schooner and the sloop

now

upon

lay helpless

the water, rising and falling on the long rollers which

throbbed and throbbed with glassy surfaces

were dashed to pieces on the rocky

The calm was nings

glared

the

darkened

heavy thunders roared and

rattled.

shut in by the inky clouds, and

they

coast.

the prelude of a storm.

upon

till

The

light

waters, and

the

The sun was

looked like coming

THE STARRY FLAG, OE

All

night upon the ocean.

was

Levi rival,

ceased

was

the shower

these idle

moments

schooner

coming

boat as a

in lowering

and stowing

rowing towards him.

make

he could pull

squall.

his jib,

Glancing

he saw that she had taken in her

and mainsail, and that the two

halyards to

He improved

up.

he was almost sure of a heavy

at the other boat, jib

the

billow's.

the

regard

sails,

and now gazed earnestly to the westward, from

which

for

on the glassy

craft rolled

and quiet

of the

the boats, except the swaying little

still

the

were

in her

then examined his mainsail

they were not

sure

down

men

sail

foul,

an instant,

that

neces

sary.

While he was thus engaged, a

dull,

from shoreward attracted his attention.

heavy roar It increased

volume, and seemed to travel like the lightning.

Levi needed no second warning, but, casting halyards, hauled his

life

ments

The

;

down

as rapidly as

though

celerity of his

move

came down upon the boats with

appall

depended and, indeed,

squall

the

off the

upon it

sail

the

did.

ing speed and violence, and Levi had only time to

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

" " on his mainsail before stops adjust a couple of the

struck the Flag, and she careened under the blast

young fisherman began to

the

till

would go

even with no

over,

that she

her.

upon

was

he had ever seen, amount

far the heaviest squall

sail

fear

Levi saw that the heeling

ing almost to a tornado.

over of the boat was caused by a portion of the taking the wind.

was impossible

to stand

sail

tip,

savage was the tempest; but he succeeded in loosen ing the topping

lift,

and bringing the boom down so

that he could secure the truant canvas.

The seemed terrific

squall like

continued hours

for

the

several minutes,

they

young boatman,

and

were the roaring and howling of the

blast,

the crash of the thunder, and the blinding glare of It

was awful, even to one accustomed

when

the elements rage in their wildest

the lightning. to the sea It

fury.

was one of those moments when nothing

human seems the

be abiding, and

man

leans

upon

arm of God, who manifests His power and His

majesty in the sublimity of the fierce tempest.

The the

squall

was over

two or three minutes, but

Storm King appeared not to be 9

satisfied

with

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

the tumult he

had created

wind

blast subsided, the

and though the

;

blew a gale from the

still

westward, as though there were to be filled

by the cooling

empty chambers

still

currents.

the tempest

down

of winds subsided, the rain began to pour torrents,

and Levi's Sunday

He had

closed

his

cuddy

harm

for the

was soon drenched.

suit

to keep

dared not take shelter within,

come

terrific

lest

dry

but he

;

the boat should

want of a lookout.

"Help! help!"

The

came

cry

him through the

thick

mists

formed by the rain near the surface of the water.

He was

thinking whether

weathered the

came

squall,

schooner

these

this time the sea

were

had been lashed into

covered

with

white

boat

caps

gale.

fury,

had

sounds

appalling

him above the howling of the

waves

when

the

and the

and

flying

spray. "

Help

blast It until

" !

help

and the

might a

came the wail again through the

rain.

have been repeated

moment

twenty times,

before, the voice, if

for

had been

that of a Stentor, could not have been heard above

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN.

The Flag was now

the roar of the storm.

and pitching

the

angry

sea, occasionally

leaping

dipping

water over her wash-board, while the spray

in the

dashed furiously upon her half deck.

cry of distress touches the

Levi had enough of the

moved by

to be deeply

was

pest

still

madness "

for

Help

ferers

" !

help

would

effort lie

to hoist his mainsail.

again came the tones of the suf

resist

off the stops,

though

mainsail,

the

peated.

the

hailing

and

this

time

sounded

the appeal, for he

up the

perils

felt

and

that

manly

of the attempt.

he hastily put two reefs in his

the cry

work was not accomplished had

been

With much doubt and

several

times re

anxiety he hoisted

sail.

The wind came beat

;

better to die in a noble

idly by, counting

until

better than

little

save his fellow-beings in distress, than to

Taking

was

from a sepulchre.

Levi could not it

and

summons; but the tem

the

through the storm

a voice

him

heart,

of the true seaman

spirit

and

fearful,

sailor's

and

in furious blasts,

threshed as though

and the mainsail

were

part of the

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

100 storm.

The

coiled

down

ends halyards, carefully secured, and the

would not

so that they

again necessary suddenly to reduce

foul if

he dodged

sail,

the swaying boom, and reached the helm.

wind

the main sheet, the

the boat over

The

side. little,

till

the

Hauling

sail,

heeling

the water rushed in over the lee

intrepid

" eased her off" a

young skipper

and she righted

;

and then she darted

ing over the wild waves as their

filled

were

if in utter

off,

leap

contempt of

impotent fury.

Levi

now had

the Flag under perfect control, and

she flew towards the wreck from which proceeded the drowning cry of the

came too sail

fresh,

two men.

he eased

no more wind than

boat behaved admirably,

off the

When

the blast

could safely carry.

lifting

lows, instead of plunging her nose

the

sheet, giving

herself on

down

The

the

bil

into them.

Levi strained his eyes to catch a glimpse, through the dense mists, of the

ance first

men who needed

but he was quite near

;

view of them.

upset, with

water,

obtained his

The schooner boat had been

her foresail

though

when he

his assist

she had

still

set.

partially

She was righted;

full

and not

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. being heavily ballasted, she did not go down. foresail

was flapping madly

men were

clinging to the

in the gale,

wreck

101

The

and the two

for their lives.

Levi rounded to under the stern of the disabled boat,

and her skipper, seizing the bowsprit, leaped

on board the Flag. "

Save

save

" !

the

cried

mortal terror, as he saw the Flag

constable,

fall

off,

and

drift

out of his reach. "

I'll

save you, Mr. Gayles.

moment main

longer

sheet,

shouted Levi

God

bless

Gayles, as he his

way

life."

" I

;

tight for a

and, hauling in his

he brought the Flag up again until the

bowsprit was within the "

Hold on

officer's

reach.

you, Levi Fail-field

" !

exclaimed Mr.

crawled in over the bow, and

the standing-room.

You have

always pick up anything I find

Levi, coolly.

made saved

adrift," replied

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

102

CHAPTER

IX.

AFTER THE SQUALL. was

THAT the

one

pretty tough

wasn't

it ?

skipper of the schooner boat, referring

said

to the squall. " It

was the hardest blow " I don't

replied Levi.

know

was ever out

that I should

in,"

want

try that over again." " I

either

shouldn't,

knocked

;

quicker 'n a flash of lightning didn't

mind much about

till

;

boat over

was rowing, and

struck us.

But

pretty soon

now

it's

beginning to moderate." " It

will

good weather

think I can carry

sail

with two

reefs,

and

;

I shall

stand on." " I suppose

you are bound to Rockport," continued

the skipper, glancing at the constable. " That's

there too,"

where I'm going added Levi.

;

I suppose

you are going

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. "

Well, no

uow.

I'll

ain't in

like."

you

Mr. Gayles was

you.

"Never mind

after

you

that now," interposed the constable,

who, drenched to the

on the weather

man

you

afford to lose her."

help you,

Thank

need to go there

as I

to save ,rny boat, if

I can't

hurry. "

want

know

don't

;

103

skin,

and

chilled through, sat

of the boat, shivering like a

side

with the ague.

" After

exclaimed Levi, with some astonish

ment.

"I wanted to "but

it's

see

you,"

explained

Mr. Gayles;

no matter now."

Levi did not understand what the constable could wish to see him for boat

required

attention,

press the question. for a short time,

but the management of the

;

his

all

till

and

he could not

" off and on " kept the Flag

the wind had subsided enough

to allow the skipper to board his water-logged craft.

The black clouds blew over almost

they had come up, and

sea

angry,

was not

though

the

rapidly as

was

still

violent.

The Flag was run up

to the

wreck

;

Levi and the

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

104

skipper

jumped aboard, while Mr. Gayles was

structed to stand

the boats from

by with the boat-hook and keep

jamming each other

The

in the sea.

work of baling out the schooner boat commenced with a bucket and a two-quart dipper belonging to the Flag.

was

was a two

men.

and the skipper was the most grateful

men when he

life

woik-

the operation proceeded, the schooner rose

in the water,

hours' job, but the exercise

very agreeable in the chilled state of the

realized that both his boat

and

his

were preserved.

you want

Levi, if

manage

when

get away from him,

for you," said the

skipper, in a

the water in the boat

had

fallen

I'll

low tone, below the

thwarts. "

Get away from him

asked

Levi,

What do you mean ? "

astonished

that

suspended

his

work.

"Why,

don't

"I'm sure "

you know?"

I don't."

They gay you

stole

the

money

buy your

boat." " Stole it

" !

gasped Levi

" ;

I'm sure I didn't."

" ,

",.'';.':..,;

THE YOUNG FISIIEKMAN OF CAPE ANN. "I

don't

know anything about

get rid of the

constable,

Hush! don't say a word, " I

get

didn't

steal

but

it,

I'll

help

you want do

you

it.

or he'll hear us."

the money, and

Then you were

away from him.

10ft

don't

want

after

me ?

thought you only wanted to race."

"Well,

" I stole

this

thought the

startling

I could beat

money

The

Starry Flag."

" !

repeated Levi,

who under

had

interest

accusation

lost

his

racing.

" I

hope

ain't

Levi,"

true,

added the sympa

thizing skipper.

"It "

I'll

not."

get Gayles into this boat as soon as

baled her out, and then you " I shall face the music

and I'm not

afraid of

"That's right! "

I'll

boat.

;

we have

may go where you I didn't steal the

like."

money,

any of them."

I like

your spunk."

take Mr. Gayles round to Rockport in I should like to see the

man

that says I stole

the money." " I

don't

know nothing

constable says.

about

it,

only what the

He's got a warrant for you."

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

106

"Has he?

I don't understand

it."

Levi was so excited and indignant that he could

The wind had subsided

not work any longer.

to a

gentle breeze, the dark clouds had rolled away, and

the sun

was struggling out from the black mantle

which had concealed

The

it.

skipper volunteered to

complete the work of baling out the boat himself,

and to release the Flag from further attendance, so that she could proceed on her "

Who

demanded "

You

says

that

stole

way round

the cape.

" money, Mr. Gayles ?

Levi, as he returned to the Flag.

mustn't blame me, Levi, for I hadn't any

thing to do with

I'm very thankful to you for

it.

saving me, and I don't like

"But who

says

the

stole

money?"

repeated

Levi, indignantly.

"Your

uncle and Ruel Belcher both say so."

"Well, I

don't believe

"I know "

you

didn't."

I'll

tell

think

you

did, Levi."

I didn't."

you it

all

about

safe

we go

go round

along. this

boat?"

asked the constable, as he glanced at the retreating

Clouds,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

107

boomed

in the

from which the thunder

still

distance.

" Safe enough," replied Levi,

shake out the reefs in his mainsail.

cally to

The Flag had taken

in considerable water during

and the blow that followed

the squall fcaled

and then with

out,

his

which Levi

it,

sponge wiped off the

The sun soon came out

seats in the standing-room. clear,

commencing mechani

and dried the boat so that she was clean and

Under

comfortable.

all

sail,

the Flag stood on her

course round the cape. " I

what any one says

don't care

that money," said Levi, in order,

the

;

didn't steal

when he had put

the boat

and seated himself at the weather side of

tiller.

" I

know anything about it myself, Levi," Mr. Gayles, who was exceedingly embarrassed

don't

replied

by the awkwardness of thing but pleasant for

who had given to

just

tempted to

don't

saved

his position, for it

him his

life.

The warrant was

with orders to arrest you.

let

young man

to arrest the "

was any

almost

you go now."

want you

to let

go.

I haven't

done

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

108

anything

and

;

man who

should like to see the

says I stole the money."

"I hope

will

all

when you

right

explain

matters."

"Are you going

to put

in jail?"

asked Levi,

with a shudder. "

You

needn't be alarmed, Levi

are well treated.

I'm responsible

before the justice,

and

I think

see that

I'll

;

for

you

your appearance

you and

I can arrange

matters." "

Uncle Nathan and Ruel Belcher say

stole the

money," added Levi, trying to think what possible foundation there was for such a charge.

"That's what they say." "

Whose money was

"Ruel "

that

was

stolen ?

Belcher's."

He had two hundred and

fifty dollars,

and put

under his pillow when he went to bed." "

And

this

morning

was gone,"

added

Mr.

Gayles. "

Was

ligence

was

stolen ? all

asked Levi, to

whom

this intel

new.

"The money was

gone, and so were you.

was

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. found

that

had

you

and gone

clothes,

dressed

109

your Sunday

without saying a word to any

off

body." " That's true no, I wouldn't

but I didn't take Ruel's money

;

anybody took

that.

it."

He was

going to mention his uncle's name.

When

was found that you

to breakfast, they were

Your

was

know anything

Well, I won't say that, for I don't

about

it, it

uncle stuck to

sure

didn't

come home

had

the money.

you

that you were

bad enough

do such a thing," added Mr. Gayles. "

Perhaps he thinks so

;

and

don't

agree

very well." "

stable,

one

much

surprised at that/' said the con

with a chilly smile.

But

mused

wonder what did become of Ruel's money,"

Levi.

" I felt pretty sure

over to Gloucester. worst. the

You had

sum Ruel had

"Didn't he

tell

you had I

might

just bought lost,

it,

Levi,

well

this

when tell

I got

you the

boat for exactly

Mr. Hatch told me."

you where

I got the

money?"

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

110 "

told

me you

said

Mr. Watson gave

cent on board his vessel, he said Mr.

you

to you

daughter; but when I saw Dock Vin

for saving his

give

anything

you

;

Watson

acknowledged

didn't

that

truth

didn't."

Levi then told Mr. Gayles the

simple

regard to the whole transaction. "

Uncle Nathan

tried to get

yesterday, but I didn't let

the

two hundred and

Where

fifty dollars,"

from

that I had "I

he continued.

let

Mr.

him know

me buy the boat if Watson now ? " asked

knew he wouldn't "

my money away

I did."

the

con

stable.

"He went

off

Rye Beach

yesterday, just

soon as they came out of the water." "

want him

as a witness

he can make the

daylight shine through this matter in the twinkling

of an eye," added the that

his

bold

deliverer

officer,

now

fully

convinced

was innocent of the

foul

charge.

must do Mr. Gayles the

this conclusion

was highly

justice

say that

satisfactory to him.

Levi, confident that his innocence would be proved,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. was very

Ill

and even laughed as he thought

cheerful,

of the confusion which awaited his uncle.

The wind was not and

sage,

fresh

enough

for a quick pas

was the middle of the afternoon when

The Starry Flag reached

the head of the

little

where the dingy dory was hauled up on the

The than

rocks.

was near the house of uncle

landing-place ;

cove,

and before Levi could secure the Flag

at her

The

moorings, he was seen from the windows.

host

and the guest hastened down to the cove. "

You've got him " said Nathan !

on his skinny

gleam of

satisfaction

from the

officer to his

Fail-field,

face, as

with a

he glanced

nephew.

"I don't know whether

I've got him, or he's got

me," replied Mr. Gayles, facetiously. "

Why

don't you hold

irons onto " I

him

shall

put

sure

"Whose

on to him, and

the

added the humane guardian. no

irons

on that boy, you

a bad boy, and he'll as

put

may

it."

depend upon " He's

you're

boat

alive,"

that?"

get

away from

protested

Mr.

you,

Fail-field,

THE STARRY FLAG, OK

112

"He

"It belongs to Levi," replied Mr. Gayles.

went over to Gloucester "

With

money he

the

morning to buy

this

stole

her."

exclaimed the guar

dian. " I don't think

stole

any money."

"Don't you?" sneered Mr. say he bought that boat. " I

boat

gave two ;

and

hundred

didn't

steal

What and the

"And you

Fairfield.

did he give for dollars

fifty

money

it ?

the

for it

with,

either," interposed Levi.

Do you

hear that, Ruel

what that boy "

Where

Now

you can

see

ejaculated the guardian.

did you get the

money

pay

for

the

boat?" asked Ruel. Levi told the whole story about the two hundred

and

fifty dollars

given him, or rather loaned, for the

purchase of the boat. " I

don't believe

Nathan. the

" Tell

word

a !

know

money from under your

" I

hope he

"I know he Gayles,

why

tells

on't

exclaimed uncle

That boy

better.

pillow,

Ruel

stole

" !

the truth," replied Ruel.

don't," protested

don't

" !

Mr.

you take him up

Fairfield. ?

"Mr.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "

Come, Levi, we

will

walk up town,

113

you are

ready," said the constable in a gentle and respectful tone.

" I'm ready," replied Levi

and he walked

off

with

Mr. Gayles, to the great indignation of his uncle,

who

;

seemed to think he ought to be put in irons and dragged up to the bar of

10*

justice.

THE STAEKY FLAG, OB

114

CHAPTER

DOCK VINCENT'S LITTLE PLAN. you going to do with me, Mr.

are

WHAT

Gayles?" asked Levi,

he walked up the

road with the constable. " If

you

you hadn't saved

to-day, I should put

life

in the lock-up."

" I don't

know

that I saved your

life.

You would

have done well enough as long as you held on to

But what

the boat.

added Levi.

ence,"

I did

You

needn't

can put

make any

differ

in jail, if

you

like."

"But

I don't like."

"I'm not

afraid

of a

jail.

haven't done

any

thing."

shall

not put you in

you before a examined."

justice

jail,

to-morrow,

Levi.

I must take

when you

will

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

115

"Well, what then?" asked Levi, curiously. " If there is

evidence enough to hold you, the jus

commit you

tice will

for trial?"

"What then?" "You

will

"What

be tried before the court next week."

do you mean by commit

"Commit you can give

fore

to jail to await your trial;

but you

bail."

"Perhaps think

me?"

can,"

would

uncle

replied let

Levi,

musing;

lie in jail

"but I

a year be

he would risk any money on me." about your

see

will

there will be no need of any. tion before

your examina

you came honestly by the money

for the boat,

"Perhaps

If,

the justice to-morrow, you can prove to

his satisfaction that

you paid

Levi; but I hope

bail,

can't

you

prove

will it.

be discharged."

Mr.

Watson went

away yesterday morning."

"Do you know where "To Rye Beach."

he went?"

"That matter must be attended Mr. in,

Gayles, Levi."

they

reached

his

once,"

house.

said

"Come

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

116

"Is

a sickly lock-up?" asked Lcvi, with

the

this

smile.

"This

the

all

lock-up I shall take you to;

responsible for your safe keeping."

"I won't run

"I'm

prisoner.

Mr.

away,

going

Gayles,"

stand

protested the

and face the

music."

"I'm

satisfied,

fortable

Levi.

we can

here,"

make you

will

com as

added the constable,

they entered the house.

Mr. Gayles told his wife, as briefly as he could,

what had happened ing;

since he left

home

and the young fisherman was

in the

morn

welcome be

neath that humble roof as though he had been the President, or the richest

man

in Rockport.

He was

treated like an honored guest, and not like a crim inal.

While Mrs. Gayles was cooking some ham and

eggs for the dinner of the wanderers from the the

officer

drew from Levi

regard to Mr. Watson. that

the

attendance

all

the latter

sea,

knew

was absolutely necessary

of the

rich

Boston

should be procured for the examination

merchant

on the

lowing day, for he was the only person by

fol

whom

THE YOUNG FISHEIIMAN OP CAPE ANN. could be proved where Levi obtained the

117

money

purchase the boat.

"I have dollars.

some

money, Mr. Gayles

hand

I'll

twenty-one

over to you, and I want you

do everything that needs to be done

for

me,"

continued Levi, as he gave him his wallet.

"Do you want

counsel?"

"Counsel?"

lawyer, to do the talking for

you?"

"Just as you think best." " I will see about that to-morrow.

would be a great help to you; but Mr. Watson here, I don't think After dinner, Mr. Gayles

messenger to

special

Rye

had gone, Ruel Belcher "

left

for

good lawyer

we can

shall

the house, to send a

Mr. Watson.

called

get

need one."

When

to see the prisoner.

Well, Levi, I'm sorry for this business," said Ruel.

"It will come out that.

all

right;

you may be sure of

I'm only sorry you think I stole your money,"

replied Levi.

didn't

want to think

so."

"I suppose uncle Nathan tried hard to make you believe

it."

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

118

"While

hope you didn't do

bad

I think it looks

"Maybe

"You

it,

Levi, I must say

for you."

does."

got up this morning, and went off without

You

saying a word to anybody.

put on

your best

my money

was gone.

clothes;

and when

Now,

seems you have bought a boat

dred and

"But "

got up,

fifty dollars

rather

sum

just the

two hun

for

I lost."

wasn't your money," added Levi, warmly.

Don't I say

lent

was given to me by Mr. Watson to

on purpose

buy

that

boat?"

Just

know anything about Mr. Watson. when we want to see him, we find he has gone don't

away." "

has gone away, but he will be here again to

morrow,

I hope."

"I don't

be hard upon you, Levi, for I

always rather liked you, and you have had a hard

row as

to hoe with your uncle; but

though you made up

this

looks to

money

just

story to show where

you got the money." " I did get the

of Mr. Watson."

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "

But you

your uncle he gave you but ten

told

dollars for the dog-fish

" That's all

dred and

119

he gave

lost."

you

he lent

;

two hun

the

fifty dollars."

Do you mean

"That's a pretty story!

tell

a rich merchant, like Mf. Watson, would lend a boy, like

you,

two hundred and

Ruel Belcher, "I

mean

fifty

dollars?" continued

sternly.

say that

just

what he did

do," re

plied Levi, decidedly.

"Did you "

him your note?" sneered Ruel.

give

No, I didn't

;

he was in a hurry to go, and I had

no time."

"Why

didn't

you

"I knew better than have taken

"He

will

tell

it last

night?"

Uncle Nathan would

that.

away from me."

do that now."

"Mr. Watson

let

me have

the

money

buy thai

boat."

"Who

sold

"Mr. Hatch "

the

you the boat?" and a nice man he

So they say ; and

I suppose

money you paid him

too."

will

for the boat."

give back

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

1-0

"Give

back!" exclaimed Levi, almost paralyzed

thought of losing The Starry Flag.

at the

don't

want him to do that!"

make any

"It don't

Your

not.

get the

uncle started right

money back

"Did he?"

"You Levi

;

whether you do

difference

off for Gloucester to

you were taken up."

as soon as

said Levi, bitterly.

can set your mind at rest about the boat,

for

your uncle, as your guardian, won't

let

you

her."

buy

"I have bought "It's

no use

for

her,

and she

you

to talk in that

mine."

way, Levi.

don't think there's any sense or reason in a

you owning a boat that " I

costs so

think I'm able to keep

boy

much money."

good

boat

that."

That may be

what you that

boat,"

look right.

replied Ruel.

The

Mid

told

I haven't

are of age,

you can do

with your money; but you won't have

a clean breast of

"I've

when you

"Levi, this matter

best thing

you can do

don't

make

it."

the

had

truth. it."

I haven't got your

money,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

"Where

is it,

121

then?"

"I don't know."

"Do you

think your uncle took it?"

"I don't know anything about

it."

Ruel could make nothing of the

prisoner,

went away, rather confirmed than otherwise

had

belief that Levi

stolen the

and he in his

money.

In the evening, while Mr. Gayles was out, Dock Vincent,

who was

loading his vessel

Gloucester,

and had come home to spend the night, paid the oner a

He was

visit.

and they met in the constable's

little parlor.

fisherman could not imagine what

and he could not help

him;

Griffin that

The young

Dock wanted of

calling

mind the

the reckless skipper had used on board the

threats

Levi's

pris

very anxious to see Levi alone,

morning.

enemy

;

Dock had

declared that he was

and to the young man

did not seem

though they could have any business together. "Well, Levi, you have got into a bad scrape,"

said

Dock.

"Perhaps I have." "

You

in the

will

be lucky

House of

you get

Correction.

off

with

It looks

bad

six

months

for you."

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

122 "It will look

all

when Mr. Watson

right

comes,"

replied Levi, cheerfully.

"Is he coming back?" asked Dock, apparently a little

startled

by the

intelligence.

expect him."

"Perhaps he

will

come, Levi; but in

opinion

he won't."

"What makes you

think he won't?" asked

Levi,

anxiously. " for

Why

should he

you?

What do you

suppose he cares

He's a mean man."

don't think so."

"Well, no matter about in this case

I say than

;

and I think

that, Levi.

I'm a witness

depends more upon what

does upon what anybody else says.

can get you out of this scrape quicker than you can say Jack Roberson."

"How?" "Never mind

that

now," replied Dock, with a

knowing nod of the head.

And

word from me

will

send you to the House of Correction for six months." " I only

want you to

tell

the truth," added Levi,

again recalling the threat of Dock.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. " That's

what

I expect to do, but

I suppose

case.

128

will spoil your

said to

you anything

for

you remember what you

Eastern Point, this morning."

off

"What was

it?"

"That Mr. Watson

didn't

That's

saving his daughter.

mouth, Levi, and

it's

give

from your own

right

the truth, too."

Levi had said so to Dock and to his uncle; and, if

Mr.

Watson did not come

their evidence

But

I told

the

examination,

would certainly condemn him. you Mr. Watson

lent

the money,"

said Levi. "

Lent

you

laughed Dock.

" I say, Levi, I

wouldn't say a word about his lending the to you.

Levi was

one will believe really

afraid

it if

you

money

do."

no one would believe

it,

and he could not help being deeply depressed by the situation, for his

own words were

to be brought

condemn him. "

Levi,

shall

you did

ill

turn

yesterday, and I

have a chance to get even with you to-mor-

rpw," continued Dock, satisfied with the effect he had already produced.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

124

"Then you mean

evidence against me,"

give

replied Levi, gloomily.

"That

will

know

didn't

you

depend upon circumstances.

two hundred and

saw Mr. Watson give you the

fifty

dollars?"

"Did you?" " Nobody knows anything about remember

I joined

Watson and

You

didn't

shot

of you

I suppose

you

at the

it if

I did

cove, just

but you

;

after

Mr.

daughter went up to the house.

his

me, but perhaps I was within ear

see

when you were

perhaps I heard

all

talking with

him, and

you said about borrowing the

money." "

Did you hear

it,

Captain

Dock ? " demanded

Levi,

eagerly.

didn't

but you

say

know

did,

I wasn't

and

didn't

say I didn't;

a mile off while you were

talking together."

"All I want " It

nothing.

true

the truth."

that you told

me Watson

gave you

I can swear to that in court, or perhaps

I don't say I

can or can't

;

perhaps I can swear

son did let you have the money.

I spoke

Wat

you

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. something about a

make

of us can

125

plan of mine, by which both

little

a heap

of money.

Now,

you

hdll

know what you

are going to say

and I won't

;

have anything to do with your plans."

"Don't be

a hurry, Levi.

Watson from coming through with

you won't, why, you rection as sure as

"Well,

would have

little

"All hat,

your I can

it.

and If

Dock

protested

Vincent."

Levi,

sturdily.

of Correction for

anything

do with

life

"I be

you or

plan."

right,"

and

friend,

go to the House of Cor

my name

wont'!"

shall

would go to the House

your

plan, I

get you out of this scrape.

I will

fore

If you will help

here.

little

can prevent Mr.

left

replied Dock, angrily, as he

the house.

11*

took his

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

126

CHAPTER

XI.

LEVl's CHAMBER.

felt

LEVI him, a

vile

mean by his

for

man

relieved it

considered

"little plan,"

extorting

still

him capable of a base and no idea of what Dock meant

except that

was a means of

money from Mr. Watson.

could conceive of was, that the two father for

and daughter were to

an increased reward ; and

kindle

The worst he

who had

saved

present a joint claim this

was bad enough

young fisherman's indignation.

the

left

was not pleasant to think that so

He had

act.

when Dock Vincent had

He had

spoken squarely and decidedly, refusing to have any

do with any

thing

better

after

"little

he had done

plan;"

and he

felt

so.

Mr. Gayles had sent a special messenger to Rye to

procure the attendance of Mr.

Watson

at the ex

amination on the following day, and Levi hoped that

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

127

anything Dock and his uncle might say would not

him; but he could not help thinking what an

injure

amount of mischief these two men might do him, since both of

them wished

to injure him.

a latw hour in the evening, uncle Nathan,

who

had been to Gloucester to recover the money paid

The Starry

for

The

Flag, called upon his ward.

old

gentleman was in a very unhappy frame of mind, and, as

may

well be supposed, he

dole with thirty

plished

He had

the prisoner.

cents

his

did not

railroad

fares,

come

actually

to con

expended

but had not accom

Mr. Hatch declared that he

purpose.

of sale of the Flag, and

when

that and the boat were returned to him, he

would

had spent

thirty

had given

restore

the

bill

money.

Mr.

Fail-field

cents for nothing, and though his less

have to pay

it,

ward would doubt

he was angry at

the

awful

waste.

"Levi, I've been to Gloucester cents,"

began uncle Nathan,

paid

sourly.

"I didn't ask you to go," replied Levi

"But your

"What

carryins on

made me

did you go for?"

go."

out thirty

THE STABKY FLAG, OB

128

"For "I

the

didn't steal

"Don't

shall

comes I "

tell

you the

matter whether you stole

senses

"I haven't got

was

or not

it,"

said

the

;

you

ain't

fifty dollars

not while I have

that sort

about me,"

"I want you to give

away two hundred and

boat, nor nothin

and when the time

truth,

prove what I say."

a goin to fool

interrupted the prisoner.

it,"

me!"

tell

shall

stole

money you

guardian, warmly.

bill

for

that boat."

replied Levi.

which he had given to the

in the wallet

constable.

"Don't from

his

tell

me!" exclaimed

chair,

uncle Nathan, rising

perhaps surprised that Levi's misfor

tunes had not yet broken his this

the

appearance of opposition. bill,

and I want

"I say

I haven't

think I would

"Lie about ruin your soul.

of sale?"

lie

it!

spirit,

and angry

"Mr. Hatch gin you

it."

got

it,"

repeated Levi.

"Do you

about it?"

You've told

What

lies

enough now to

have you done with the

bill

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. "Mr. Gayles has

it."

While uncle Nathan was

came

the constable

bill,

129

in,

raving about the

still

and the

irate

guardian

demanded the important document of him. "Don't

give

him, Mr. Gayles," said Levi,

quietly.

have no intention of doing

"This

cer.

shall

may be wanted

bill

hold on to

so,"

added the

bill.

and I

at the trial,

it."

"Mr. Gayles, I'm that boy's guardeen, and that

offi

want

git

want

back the money the boy

stole."

"Perhaps

didn't

steal

it,"

quietly

suggested

Mr. Gayles. "

But he did

"When duty to

return

steal it

idee

won't

opinion Levi will get clear.

did steal

will

proved,

Mr.

Fail-field.

he stole the money."

"Who

it."

Gayles?" demanded Mr.

" !

boat to Mr. Hatch, and reclaim

the

money paid for "Have you an

proved that he did,

the

don't tell

then?"

I don't think

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

130 " I don't "

know."

The money was

stole

paid two hundred and

very morning. gether, Mr. "

that

;

fifty dollars

and

a boat that to

Gayles?"

replied the constable

;

that

stole

money,"

but he could not help confessing

to himself that the boy's position

"Do you

for

off

Can you put them two things

don't prove that Levi

They

boy went

was a trying

believe Ruel Belcher lost

one.

any money?''

asked Mr. Fairfield.

"I have no doubt he

did."

"Then who took

Nobody got

it?

into the

house

that didn't belong there,"

"Levi

going to prove that Mr. Watson

have the money he paid a

man

Rye on purpose

stable.

for the boat.

for him,"

let

him

I have sent

added the con

Then who took

Ruel's

money ?

demanded

the

miser, blankly. " I think

you ought to know better than

I,"

replied

Mr. Gayles, with suggestive emphasis. "Creation!

you mean to say that

exclaimed Mr. Fairfield.

)

took it?"

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. U I didn't

the

but I hear that you went into

say so;

room where Ruel and Levi

gone to

131

they had

slept, after

sleep."

"I'm that boy's guardeen; I went into the room to

Ruel's, but I didn't git

money, not

his

git

any

thing."

"You know

best,

Mr. Fairfield; but I think you

had better not be too hard on the boy."

"Hard on him! as

my own

he'd been

him, and

seen

own, and

I've taken care o' that

his

boy

I've looked

son.

money,

jest

as if

jest

out for

was

"That's so," interrupted Levi. " for

You him.

Now,

Why,

treats

fit

fur

all

I've

done

yisterday like a wildcat.

do nothin with him, and he must be seen

I can't to.

how he

see

want the boy to behave himself he's

"Not

been

that's

all.

stealin."

proved, Mr.

Fail-field."

"It's jest as clear to

as the nose on your face."

Mr. Gayles had a long nose. "

Perhaps

Captain

Dock

is.

paid

Does Mr. Belcher know what

him?"

bills

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

132 "

he does

course

hundred-dollar "

well

Very

bills

Mr. Belcher

on a certain bank

received the same

him

don't take

without lookin at em."

bills

;

man

;

will

swear that he

Mr. Hatch swears that he

from Levi, then a case

bills

lost

may

be made out against the boy.

"Just

and

so,"

added uncle Nathan, rather vacantly;

was

as nothing

visit,

the house, and

left

Nathan

made by prolonging

to be

Fail-field

was a

his

went home.

Money was

miser.

his

only joy in this world; and he loved

he thought

Lcvi's property

amounted terest

little

of the next world.

thousand

over ten

dollars, for the

more than paid even the exorbitant charges

of the guardian for the ward's support. this

so well that

money.

He had

He wanted

not the patience to think of

twelve or fourteen thousand dollars falling into the

hands of a young

man

like Levi,

who had "no

idee

of the vally of money."

Perhaps he did not clearly and distinctly wish that Levi would die

;

or, if

did,

he was not willing to

acknowledge as much even to himself; but he could not help thinking

how much

better

would be

THE YOU^G FISHERMAN OF CA^E AXX. the

fortune

keep

who knew how

thought in his mind, where

should come to one

With

it.

this

often was, he entered the kitchen of his

Ruel and Mrs. If the

were

Fail-field

home, where

seated.

guardian did not allow himself to believe

that he wished for the conviction of his ward,

none the

less true

that he did wish

was high-spirited; the House break him

and Mr.

13u

down; the

of Correction would kill

him,

only brother of Levi's de

ceased father, would inherit his property.

What

constable had said about the identity of the

Levi might escape

turbed him.

was

The boy

it.

disgrace might even

Fairfield, as the

;

the

bills dis

he did he would

be more stubborn and disobedient than ever.

"Did you you,

Ruel?" asked Mr.

self in a

"Of the "

notice the bills that Captain

broken

course

Fairfield, as

Dock

paid

he seated him

chair.

did,"

replied

Ruel; and he named

bills

had

been

issued.

one of the hundred-dollar

bills

there

was

banks

by which

great blot of ink,

the

something

the shape of half

a star, after the cashier's name, as though the pen

had snapped

he finished writing."

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

134

"Then you'd know " I should

know

the

bills

you see 'em?"

that one, aad I think I should the

others." " Bless

There's another shower

comin up

" !

exclaimed the matron, as a heavy peal of thunder startled her.

The conversation continued the rain began to the

windows

for half

in Levi's

an hour, when

Mrs. Fairfield said

in torrents.

fall

room were open, and wished

her husband to go up and close them. a lamp and

went up

stairs for

this purpose.

lighted

As he

entered the chamber, the wind began to blow in fierce squall, as it

had

the forenoon of that day.

closed

the windows, and was

the

stairs,

when he heard

about to descend

a sharp rattling in

the

chimney.

Like everything

was

else

about the house, the chimney

in a state of dilapidation.

had been detached by the

fierce

and had tumbled down the

Two

or three bricks

wind from the

flue into the

room.

Fairfield returned to ascertain the extent of the age, fearful

top,

Mr.

dam

that he might be compelled to employ

a mason for a few hours to repair it; and

he had

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

much money

paid out so

round

side of the

The

thirty cents

him

also stung

for steaks

that he felt almost impoverished.

challenged

the

the fireboard, and saw the bricks

top

and even the

falling

;

of half a a

up.

sight.

It contained fifty.

He was

He examined

on one of them was the blot in the shape star,

doubt, this

lost.

two one hundreds and a

amazed and bewildered by the the bills

which

and he forgot the storm,

eager hand he picked

three bills

object

chimney.

was Ruel's wallet

With

large, old-fashioned fire

of them lay an

his attention,

all

in railroad fares

moment.

at that

upon the hearth of the

place.

from the "under

he had expended

down

pulled

lying

135

which Ruel had mentioned.

was the money

"Without

his brother-in-law

had

he had not stolen the

Levi was innocent

wallet.

"Husband! field, at

what's the matter?" called Mrs. Fair-

the foot of the

She had heard the

stairs.

fall

"What's that noise?"

of the bricks, and perhaps

feared her husband had been struck

"Nothin; only a few bricks

fell

by them.

down chimney,"

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

136

replied Mr. Fairfield, hastily thrusting the wallet into his pocket.

He went down that

the

old

stairs,

and, having satisfied his wife

house had not " caved

in,"

he seated

himself in the broken chair again, and, leaving Mrs.

and her brother

Fail-field tion,

to continue their conversa

he proceeded to consider the discovery he had

just made.

How

came that money

in the

chimney?

been concealed there by somebody, and the bricks it

had jostled

from

He would

hiding-place.

fifty dollars.

himself.

Of else

falling

Who

put

his

own

not cheat himself out of two hun

dred and

no one

its

Not Ruel: he would not hide

there?

money.

had

Mr. Fairfield did not hide

course, then,

could have done

must have been Lcvi;

it.

Mr. Fairfield was roused from his brown study at half past to bed.

ten,

He went

the

first

the

expense,

galled

and reminded that to bed.

was time

to go

The next morning he took

train for Gloucester, apparently heedless of

him

though

the

thirty

a thorn in his

cents

flesh.

must have

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER

137

XII.

LBVI MAKES A SPEECH. a

HOW

man who

has lived

and stands almost

threescore

in sight of the

open grave,

can love money, as Nathan Fairfield loved

yond

our

money, in

He had

comprehension. the stealing

for

years,

it,

found

Ruel's

of which Levi was at least

danger of being sent to the House of Correction.

He was wallet,

entirely satisfied

and concealed

that Levi had stolen the

in the

chimney;

for it

was

not possible, in his opinion, that any one else could

have taken

But

it.

was equally

used Ruel's Flag.

hidden

money

clear to

for the

him that Levi had not

purchase of

was

Starry

the chimney for future use, after the

storm, following the loss of the It

The

concluded that the wretched youth had

quite proper that Levi

12*

bills,

had blown

over.

should be convicted,

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

138

for

and the guardian was determined

;

"break him down."

to for

he was guilty

having a

own, and he was determined

will of his

have him convicted, Mr.

possible.

hastened

Fail-field

was

boat-builder's shop

the wharf where

located, as soon as

The examination

reached Gloucester.

summoned

appear as a

the

the train

of Levi was

to take place at eleven o'clock, and Mr.

been

ward

lie actually hated his

Hatch had

witness

;

but the

guardian found him at the shop.

"Mr. Hatch,

come over

that boat business,"

sunthin more about " It's

bad business

Mr.

said

had passed the usual

to see

you agin about

Fairfield,

salutations.

after

"I want

they

know

it."

;

but

hope the boy didn't

steal

the money," replied the boat-builder. "I

hope he didn't

Have you got them

Hatch

know he

bills

the boy

did,"

added the

for his malice.

paid you, Mr.

" I have I

but I

whose hypocrisy was no match

visitor, *'

;

couldn't

;

trouble about

wanted to pay the money away, but ,it it."

while there was likely to be any

THE YOUXG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. " I wish you'd jest let

look at them

No, I didn't mind

;

replied Mr. Hatch, as

and handed the

I only

looked at the figures,"

he took out his pocket-book,

bills to

"I ruther think

Mr.

Fairfield.

I've got a clew to this business,"

said the guardian, as he took the bills in his pocket for his

" I

spectacles.

and fumbled

was talking to

brother-in-law last night about the bills

ment

;

he looked

and knows jest what they was."

at 'em, Mi-.

I'll

Do you know what

give 'em right back to you.

bank they're on

bills.

139

with no

Fairfield,

in his

little

agitation

and excite

manner, put on his spectacles and opened

the roll of bills he held in his hand.

"Are

those

the

bills

much

asked Mr. Hatch,

your brother-in-law lost?" interested in

the result of

the investigation.

"Fact!

knows

all

turned the "

What

don't

know's I can

I don't

about

it,"

now; but Ruel

replied Mr. Fail-field, as he

bills.

did you

want

to see the bills for, if

know them when you

Hatch.

tell

Bee

you

them?" asked Mr.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

140

to Gloshter this mornin, and

"I was comin over

thought I'd jest see you about the

]

I didn't

bills.

know but you might have paid 'em away; and I wanted you to have 'em with you when you go over to Rockport to the trial."

"It

seems

anxious

have

added

crime,"

me, Mr.

nephew

your

the

boat-builder,

are

you

Fairfield,

very

convicted

of the

disgusted

the

conduct of the guardian. " 'Tain't so,

Mr.

Mr. Hatch

"You

Fairfield.

stole in

fact

on't

is,

that

money was

Ruel more'n half hinted that

house.

stole it myself;

don't understand this business

The

as well as I do.'

no sich thing," protested

and goodness knows,

I wouldn't

sich thing as that."

"But

the boy

"He

don't

tells

tell

the

where he got the money." truth,"

replied

Mr.

Fairfield,

shaking his head, as he walked away.

Mr. Hatch concluded that the guardian had come to

him

for the

to assure himself that the identical bills paid

boat would be produced at the

he had no respect

for the miser,

trial.

and thought

Though it

very

unnatural that an uncle should be so forward to have

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. nephew and ward condemned, he could

his

141

see

good reason why the whole truth should not come out at the examination.

With

the bank

bills

his

pocket-book, he took the same train with Mr. Fairfield for

Rockport.

eleven o'clock Levi was taken to the office of

by Mr. Gayles.

the

trial justice

ger

who had been

appeared, but

sent for Mr.

The

special

messen

Watson had not

yet

was believed that the important wit

ness would be present.

Mr. Gayles was so confident

Levi would be discharged, that no lawyer had been

employed to manage

The

his case.

cause was duly

brought before the justice, and Ruel Belcher, in his testimony, gave

money,

full

history

the

loss

his

has been already recited to the read

Mr. Gayles detailed the

er.

explanation of the

arrest,

and gave Levi's

manner he had come

into pos

money with which he had bought the but both Mr. Fairfield and Dock Vincent swore

session of the

boat ;

that Levi

had only paid him ten

money he had

had told them Mr. Watson gave him no dollars for the fish

lost.

this time

Mr. Hatch,

who had been

to see the

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

142 minister

came

whose

for

he had built the boat,

society

Ruel

into the room, and gave his testimony.

had already declared that he could identify the he had

The

lost.

boat-builder told

bills

what had passed

between himself and Levi the day before, which cluded the statement that Mr.

have "

" let

Watson had

him

the money.

Have you

the

bills

the boy paid

you ?

asked

the justice. " I have," replied

Mr. Hatch, taking out his pocket-

book and producing the Ruel was directed

bills.

examine them.

This appeared

to be the turning-point of the case, and those present

were breathless with

summer morning,

antly as a isfied

Levi smiled as pleas

interest.

for

that this line of evidence

he was entirely

would

sat

establish

his

innocence.

"These

are

the

very

bills

lost,"

said

Ruel

Belcher. "

What

" !

exclaimed Levi, springing to his

horrified at the

feet,

words Ruel had spoken.

"Can you swear that those are the Mr. Belcher?" demanded the justice.

bills

you

lost,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN.

143

"I can."

"How "

do you identify them?"

this blot of ink, in the shape of half a

star,

near the cashier's signature."

this stage of the

examination the special mes*

He had

senger appeared.

an errand in Gloucester, and had he had no good news for Levi, the evidence against him.

Mr. Watson beach

before

most

and

he was

his

important

train; but

lost the

now overwhelmed by

He had

been to Rye, but

hardly reached the hotel at the

despatch

telegraph gency,

had

moment

stopped a

summoned meet

family had

witness

some

Boston business

gone with him.

for

by a emer

The

Levi, therefore, could

not be obtained.

The evidence was disappeared

morning

;

Levi

without

lost.

bills

heard.

had

left

any

bought The Starry the

all

Ruel's his

home of his

explanation

Flag, and Ruel

paid to Mr. Hatch as the

Two

witnesses had

money had

had

the

purpose, identified

money he had

sworn that Levi said Mr.

Watson gave him no money.

seemed to be a

very plain case, and the justice said aa much.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

144

"I know'd field,

who

how

just

be," said

feet again;

money," cried Levi, springing

and he was so overcome by

down

emotions that the tears streamed

"Mr. Watson

How

let

me have

could Mr.

his

cheeks.

that money."

Watson have given you

which Mr. Belcher lost?"

bills

Mr. Fair-

sat near Levi.

" I didn't steal that

to his

would

asked

the very

the justice,

quietly.

"I don't know about if

you

tell

will only wait

you that he gave

"That

made

out,

that," protested

the money."

hardly necessary.

and

The

case seems to be

must commit you

for trial.

wish to ask the witnesses any questions, or

new "I

evidence,

you may

"but

Levi;

Mr. Watson comes, he will

till

If you

offer

any

so."

want to ask Mr. Hatch

the

bills

he showed

here are the ones I paid him."

"They are," replied Mr. Hatch. "Are you sure?" demanded Levi, earnestly. "Have they been out of your hands since I gave them

you?"

YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

TIIK

145

"Well, yes

once," answered the boat-builder.

They have

exclaimed Levi, catching

this

straw.

"Your

me.

him

I told

did

;

What

in his

bills

you paid

hand?"

but he couldn't

did he

morning,

and showed them to him."

want to

see

me whether

tell

were the ones Mr. Belcher had "

this

had the same

if I

I had,

"Did he take them "

uncle came over to see

and wanted to know

they

lost or not."

them

for ?

asked Levi,

greatly excited.

"I don't know." "I guess

Mr.

" you don't !

Fail-field

"Be

was very uneasy and very angry.

calm, Levi, and ask any questions you wish,"

said the justice.

"Did

uncle

Nathan give you back the same

bills

you gave him?" " I

suppose he did

;

don't know," replied Mr.

Hatch.

"Didn't you examine tha

them to Mr.

Fairfield ?

bills

before

you passed

asked the justice.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

146 "

No,

sir

what

just

"May

I supposed, of course,

;

back

handed to him."

Saunders?" contin

I say something, Squire

ued Levi, wiping the tears from "

he gave

Anything

his face.

relating to the matter before us," re

plied the justice.

"I know and

ders;

Mr.

I didn't steal that

Watson

for him.

to have

want

you wait

I've got

here.

saving his daughter.

Here's

my at

squirming like an eel in

his

not

dirt.

much

school,

don't give

of anything to

and he won't

let

me down

me down!

Mr.

money."

the

send

money

Fail-field,

for

guar

who

sat

"He's meaner to

want

eat,

and

go to

If I should die, he

in Rockport. sir

he's

me enough

me.

Yes,

;

chair.

wants

wants to break

wants to get rid of me; and

done everything he could to make this

uncle

wear.

would be the happiest man to break

I can get

wanted that boat to earn

dian;" and Levi pointed

than

till

money enough

you he gave

He'll tell

some money with.

money, Squire Saun^

he's

out that I stole

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN.

147

" That's a fact ! " ejaculated Mr. Hatch, loud

enough

to be heard

the room.

all in

He was

Levi waxed eloquent.

actually

making a

speech. "

But

steal

I didn't steal

it,"

any man's money.

I've

been trying to make

something to help myself, because not give dollars,

me what he

and

need.

tried

" I wouldn't

he continued.

take

guardian will

earned it

twenty-one

away from me,

Saunders."

Squire " I'm

uncle

his

guardeen

only about the money, Levi," said the

interposed

Nathan,

savagely.

"Tell justice.

"He sir.

boy

tried

take

my money away

wants to make

that I'm a thief;

treated worse Levi's tears

out that I

but I

not.

I've

me,

bad been

than a dog, and I won't stand it!"

began to flow again; and as

dignation was kindled violently,

from

at his

and even shook

his in

wrongs, he gesticulated

his fist in the face of his

guardian.

"He came

into the

room where Mr. Belcher and

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

148

slept,

night

before

Mr. Belcher told stole

the

money

sure

now

that he

;

last,

but stole

he I it

looking

for

did.

And

didn't

;

my money he

says I

and I'm

almost

himself!"

Mr. Fairfield jumped up as though he had been idiot.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER

149

XIII.

ME. HATCH'S TESTIMONY.

villain,

YOU

you!" gasped Mr.

Fair-field,

filled

with rage at being charged with stealing the in addition to the other unpleasant revelations

money,

which Levi had made. "

Squire

Saunders, I say just what I believe.

know

don't

thinking " You

money

as I

it,"

villain,

posed,

I never did

how

it,

well

dare you say I stole the

sich a thing in all

Rockport

interposed

enough

Mr.

days,

clear to

and other persons

little*

stole

in the room.

as anything in

that

money 13*

;

life.

and I

know

Fairfield,

when he found himself standing up

justice

boy

you

know me

steal,"

ought

but I can't help

added the young fisherman.

lived here in folks

to say

I've

caPlate

wouldn't

more com before the

" It's jest as

natur can be, that the

and

seems

'tain't

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

150

exactly right

him stand here and

let

about one that

has been his best friend on

I've

done everything I could

tried

to bring

him up

that

for

done the best I could

and now you see what Mr.

got to say

here,

" All I

and

The

tell

it,

is,

least,

raised

is,

the

when he was

I didn't steal the it,"

to have Mr.

what he knows about

down

feel

the same that Ruel

and never saw

want

prisoner sat

he had, at

know

for I

never touched

stoutly.

uncle must have changed it,

died.

much-abused man.

like a

I've

all

Saunders,

looking at

father

got

for him, Squire Saunders,

money Mr. Hatch showed here lost,

he's

I git for't."

down, and looked

Squire

I've

having vented his overcharged

Fairfield,

ings, sat

his

airth.

boy.

and to-day

right;

more property than he had when I've

talk

said

money. Levi,

Watson come

this business."

again, with the feeling that

a doubt

regard to his

guilt.

"I am Mr.

entirely willing to continue the case until

Watson's

attendance can be procured," added

Squire Saunders; to

testify

that

"though, the

money

Mr. Belcher

ready

Mr. Hatch's hands,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. which he swears was paid to him by Levi, posed of the identical

bills

lost,

151

com

hardly

necessary.

Mr. Hatch

and seemed much embarrassed.

rose,

"I think

that

when

to say

hope your honor don't think

dence

was a

little

too

fast," said he,

ovi,

I think I

" a " mess of

it.

wish to correct your testimony?" said the with a smile.

justice,

winding up desperately

when he found he was making

"You

I gave

said

second

just

what

think

thought, I

didn't occur to me,

had been out of

"You

thought was true; but, on

till

may be

mistaken.

Levi spoke, that the money

hands."

can correct your statements,

you wish,"

added the magistrate.

don't

more.

When

me where all

know

want

the boy paid

correct

anything

the money, and told

that I

was

right, I just looked

at the

figures on the

are

alike to

The

he got

bank

national

of 'em good

it,

;

bills

so I didn't

was just going

all

satisfied

was

bills.

me, and

mind much about

pay that money away

'em.

for

all

some

152

THIS

STARRY FLAG, OK

lumber I bought, when Mr. Gayles came along

find the boy." " I

thought the proceeds of the sale of the boat

were

for

the benefit of Mr. Ames's

church," inter

posed Squire Saunders. "

Bless

you

should see

they

were

bank to pay

in the

enough

;

it.

didn't

week

the minister for a

had money

but I

know two

as I

;

thought I might as well use the money I had in lumber.

pocket to pay for

going clear up to the bank, you

doubt

was

my all

right,

would save

see."

Mr. Hatch," added

the justice. "

was

boat-builder,

you may depend upon

earnestly,

for

it,"

said

the

he was not quite sure

that he might not yet be accused of an attempt to purloin from the

church the proceeds of the sale

knew

but every one

that Mr.

;

Hatch would be sunk

thousand feet in the sea rather than wrong any

person of the value of one cent.

drawn a check done

You and

so,

for the

hadn't had that

see, squire, it

lumber

;

" I

might have

should have

and

money

pocket.

would save me taking some

steps,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "

Never mind

that,

Mr. Hatch

the matter before

please,

153

entirely satis

Confine yourself

with your explanation.

fied

;

you

the court," interposed

the justice. "

sir.

Yes,

Well,

he was

said

had stolen the

Levi, because he

was kind of struck up when

money.

after

Mr. Gayles came along, and

sir,

I heard this,

and didn't think anything more about the lumber.

The

on't

fact

is,

I haven't paid for "

yet; but Mr.

Proctor knows I'm good "

doubt you

are,

Mr. Hatch

but the question

;

relates to the identity of the bills in

"Just

so.

Well,

sir,

boat after Levi, and I didn't

about

the

afraid

all

matter

till

blowed so yesterday. squalls

boy.

we have had

so heavy.

had another

get

anything more

cast

away when

That was one of the heaviest in

these

parts

last night,

but

since it

was a

wasn't quite

and I kept thinking of 'em,

out once in a squall, though

one

Well, I was afraid the boats would upset

in that squall,

as the

hear

off

morning, though I was

this

of 'em would

your possession."

Mr. Gayles went

we had

for I

was

wasn't quite so heavy

yesterday noon

;

but I've observed

THE 8TAREY FLAG, OB

154

these squalls

that

such a day

after

from

coming

westward

the

do not care to

now, to a homily

listen, just

on meteorology, Mr. Hatch," interrupted the justice; "

you "

said

;

to tell

No,

want did

you

sir

look

didn't look at the bills yesterday." didn't

say

just exactly as

the

I'm on oath, and I

so.

but only to see the

bills,

This morning Mr. Fairfield here

about them

and I

let

figures.

came over

He wanted

bills.

him have

was, this time.

see

look at 'em,

'em."

"Didn't he change them?" demanded Levi, impa tient

under the long speeches of the worthy boat-

builder.

know

"Bless your soul! I don't then again, I don't

know

but he did.

he did; and,

mind

I wasn't

ing particularly what he did."

"What asked

did he do

Levi,

when you gave them

anxiously

;

for

almost certain that his uncle,

room

was by

this

when he went

to search for the twenty-one dollars,

him?" time

into the

had

stolen

Ruel's wallet, and exchanged the lost bills for those

paid for

The

Starry Flag.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP "

Well, he took the

looked

at.

ANN.

165

and fumbled about

bills,

pockets for his spectacles. on,

CA1-E

and

his

found 'em, put 'em then gave 'em back

the

bills,

means of knowing whether he

to me."

"You

have

" changed them or not ? said the "

all

sir

No,

;

have

not.

justice.

might have done

it,

for

know."

Mr.

Hatch," " are

sternly,

continued

you willing

the to

magistrate,

swear

that

rather

the

bills

produced by you in court are the identical ones paid

you by the prisoner?"

"Well,

sir,

you just exactly how

I've told

and you can judge

for yourself

whether the

was;

bills

are

the same ones," replied Mr. Hatch, wiping the per

from his brow.

spiration

"That

not the point.

tively that the bills

lost

;

Mr. Belcher swears posi

you have exhibited

are the ones

now, can you swear that they were paid to

you by Levi Fairfield?"

"No, ing

but

to "

sir; I

cannot

so.

I'll

that

swear

to say, I'm not will

to anything in reason,

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

156 "

Can you swear that Mr.

Fairfield did

change the

bills?" added Squire Saunders. "

No,

but

'em,

He might

I certainly cannot.

you

see

will

do,

don't

have changed

know whether he

did

or not." "

That

Mr.

Hatch

please," continued the justice.

;

sit

down,

" Mr. Belcher,

you

do you

wish to make any change in your testimony?" "

No,

sir

"You Hatch "

don't

;

know

that I do."

are quite positive the bills produced

are the identical ones

I'm just as sure of

as I

replied Ruel, confidently.

" I

carefully, for

dollar

bills,

"Where

by Mr.

you lost?"

that I stand here,"

looked them over very

I'm not much used to handling hundred-

and

I rather liked the looks of them."

did you get the bills?"

"They were

paid

yesterday

by Captain

Vincent." " I think I should

who was the very

how

know them

again,"

then invited to examine them. bills

I paid Mr. Belcher,"

reluctantly.

Mr. Watson."

added Dock,

"They

are

he did not say

"This new one was given

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. tf

Mr.

dence

Fairfield,

wish to

you

157

your evi

alter

said Squire Saunders, turning to Levi's guar

dian.

Not one word

"You

and Levi were asleep "

sir

Yes,

;

I did

had twenty-one "

know

What

him

which Mr. Belcher "

fact on't

and I'm

is,

that boy

his guardeen."

that," interposed the justice, tartly.

bad boy, and

room

Levi's

for ?

didn't

money.

high time

it's

He's got to be seen

did you go into the

git

fool

The

in.

dollars,

was done.

did you not ?

" He's gettin to be a sunthin'

replied he, with energy.

chamber

the

visited

on't

to,

want

to have

away, waste the money, and hurt him

self."

"Did you

You

found no money

"Not "

a cent."

For what purpose did you

morning "

money?"

I did not; I wish I had."

"No, "

find his

visit

Gloucester this

You

see Mr. Hatch.

pay away them

bills

see, I

was

afraid

he'd

THE STARRY FLAG, OK

158

"And added the

boy

the

stole

want the

not

facts to

can't

do nothin with him

and

it's

and

a good deal

it's

too

then

come out

ways.

than

save

b'lieve

;

fit

tis

wus every

to let

jest as they be.

day.

like a wildcat

him seen

to have

better

late,

try

convicted,"

and I know

money

He's a bad boy, and he's gittin

afore

with evident disgust.

justice,

" If that

did

nephew would

your

him go

him from the

;

to ruin,

error

of his

shettin the door afore the hoss

is stole."

Did you change the

bills

handed to you by Mr.

Hatch?" "

Did

" change 'em repeated Nathan !

Fairfield,

trying to look savage and indignant; but the attempt

was a miserable

failure, for his

emphasis was broken-

backed, and his thin lips quivered.

'em!

You've known

Saunders

"Answer "

a good

Did

many

change

years, Squire

the question."

course I didn't change 'em.

change 'em for?

I only

Hatch

them

didn't pass

What

should

wanted to be sure that Mr. bills off."

THE YOUNG FISHEBMAN OF CAPE ANN. "That Levi,

whom

court to

called for

you

try

are charged. for

said the

sufficient,"

turning

"Levi, this

up.

the

justice,

crime

not a

with which you

duty to examine the evidence

are sufficient grounds for holding

you to answer

the proper court on the charge against you.

This

in is

trial."

"I know

it,

replied Levi;

sir,"

whatever you say, but I didn't

more than you

did."

" Understand

me,

guilty,

you, and determine whether there

and against

not your

159

but there

Levi

"I'm ready to do

steal that

money any

do not say you are

probable cause for believing you

guilty, as the case stands at present."

" It

here,"

wouldn't stand so

Mr. Watson had been

added Levi.

"As you seem

to lay a great deal of stress upon

the appearance of Mr. Watson, I will, if you desire,

continue the case for a few days."

"I do

desire

it,"

well

I will put the case off for one

Yery

but in the

;

replied Levi, decidedly.

mean time

week ;

must commit you, unless

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

160

offer

you

sufficient

bail

for

haps your uncle would be your "

bail."

I'm willin to do anything in reason, squire

that

boy would be

would be to

eat

jest as sartin to

when

Per

your appearance.

;

but

run away as he

Mr.

he's hungry," interrupted

Fairfield.

" If

he could get something to

eat,"

added Levi,

bitterly.

Very much

worth one hundred and

millionnaire

came forward, and

dollars

him.

The

father-in-law

himself, both

grateful

Levi

to the prisoner's surprise, a

left

fifty

offered to "

thousand bail

for

of Mr. Gayles also offered

gentlemen having been secured by the

constable.

the

Cape Ann

office,

The

bail

was

acceptable,

to appear again in one week.

and

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER

161

XIV.

AFTER THE EXAMINATION.

who

those

attended the examination of Levi, Fail-field

had

stolen

the money, and the other half that Levi

was

guilty

one half believed that Mr.

of the

theft.

boy; and

all

Some thought that Levi was a bad knew that his uncle was a hard and

mean man. The

prisoner left the office with Mr. Gayles.

boat-builder entirely

was

satisfied

that

great

the

was that which had been

He was now

trouble.

money stolen

his

possession

from Ruel Belcher;

and when the squire told him he might restore owner, taking his receipt therefor, he get rid of "

NOW

The

made

haste to

it.

you have got your money, Mr. Belcher, and

you ought to be

satisfied," said he, as

bills.

14*

he gave up the

THE STAKRT FLAG, OB

162

"I am entirely "

Now, do you

satisfied."

believe that

boy

"Sartin he did," interposed

body

else could

" I don't say

have took

you took

it,

est boy,"

added Mr. Hatch.

The

fact on't

is,

know

"No

Fairfield.

Mr. Fairfield

head that Levi

Mr.

money ?

it."

quite get

through

stole the

;

but I can't

isn't

an hon

the boy stole the money.

Mr. Watson didn't give him no two hundred and fifty

dollars

for

haulin that gal into the dory," con " He's

tinued Mr. Fairfield. didn't git rich foolin

man

;

and he

money in that shape. man like him wouldn't do no

away

It stands to reason a

a rich

his

sich thing."

"If Mr. Watson did give him two hundred and fifty

dollars,

where

suggested Ruel Belcher. paid

me by

Mr. Hatch

now? " is

That's the question,"

I'm just as sure this money

what

I lost, as I

that I

stand here now." " I don't believe Mr. if

Watson

he did, the boy has hid

it,"

give

him any money

said the guardian.

"I think we'd better hunt round, and see an't find it,"

added Ruel.

;

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

F airfield

"Levi seemed to be very sure that Mr. changed the

bills

continued

ing,"

when he looked Saunders,

Squire

them

163

this

glancing

morn

the

guardian.

"That boy hates me, and

all

because I've tried to

do well by him, and make a man of him.

He'd say

anything," replied Mr. Fail-field; but he did not like

the look which the magistrate gave him.

The

conversation

continued for some time longer,

but without making any of the party wiser than they

were easy.

Mr. Fairfield was disturbed and un

before.

He wanted

to leave while

get away, but he didn't wish

was

possible that anything

be said to implicate him. that

moment, the

He knew

might

that he had, at

identical bills in his pocket

which

Mr. Watson had paid Levi; he knew that he had

changed the

bills

in the

morning, during his inter

view with the boat-builder; and he was afraid all

guilty

men

are

that

some circumstance mighl

betray him.

But we must do the guardian the that

justice to

he believed Levi had stolen Ruel's wallet.

had found

concealed in the chimney,

He was

say,

He cen-

164

no one but the boy could have stolen

fident that

did not steal

would not purloin

fact that the wallet

would

own money.

his

and Rue!

If he did steal

had been found convict

likely to

;

he ought to be convicted; and the

and he did

he knew that

himself

in the

chimney,

uncle

the

nephew.

Ruel and Mr. they soon

but

Fairfield

very nervous, for

mean, base, and wicked

him half

trouble

had

office

together;

separated, and Nathan went

He was

alone.

the

left

much

done would

he had done a this

though

act,

the

fear

discovered.

did

that

ably he would be able to identify the large to Levi.

upon him?

The

What cold

sweat

head at the very thought,

had

changed

the

bills

for

not

what

Mr. Watson

might come to Rockport within a few days.

had given

home

Prob bills

they should be found started it

on his fore

would prove that

Mr. Hatch

handed

him.

He was sion,

result

alarmed.

and went

in.

reached his dilapidated

Though he

told

his

man

wife

of the examination, he was not disposed

the t

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. upon the

enlarge

What

subject.

out

room.

of his

Taking

he placed the as

wallet

fell

clothes,

he went up

chair,

the

to Levi's

stairs

from his pocket,

wallet

stolen

he had taken from Mr. Hatch

bills

found the original contents when the

out of

its

Without thinking

hiding-place.

that

he was attired in his best

he crawled into the fireplace, and then thrust

head up into the capacious

his

terrified

thought flashed through his mind, and jump

as the

just

constable

He was

should come to look for the bills?

ing

the

163

flue.

was an

old-

fashioned house, and the fireplaces were large enough

hold from a foot to half a cord of wood.

Fairfield

was looking

intended to restore

had found the

money

was it

for

it,

until the

before, Levi,

it,

a safe place for the wallet. to the

and leave

chimney where he

excitement had subsided,

But

could be used.

who had

again, and, before

take

the

he put

concealed

week had

for parts

brick

it,

when

where

would

find

would

expired,

unknown.

Mr. Fairfield concluded to place feet

Mr.

about

eight

above the hearth, where he found a projecting

upon which

could

rest.

Levi, not

finding

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

166

he had hidden

the wallet where

conclude that for

it.

would naturally

was gone, and not search higher up

the same time, the

confess

it,

and reveal the hiding-place of

theft,

the wallet, then

Levi should be driven

would be found

in the

chimney.

But he hoped the boy would not be weak enough confess

;

and when the trouble was

Fairfield could put the

The

precautions

he had

dent that his

He had

own

was

used, and villany

over,

with the

satisfied

was reasonably

down

hardly put up the fireboard

stairs,

confi

would not be discovered.

when he heard

a very emphatic knocking at the front door. ing

Mr.

in his pocket.

money

old wretch

miserable

all

he found that Mrs.

Fail-field

admitted Mr. Hatch and the constable,

Hasten

had just

who were

tended by Levi.

When

the party at the office separated, Mr. Hatch

had gone directly to Mr. Gayles's house. little

anxious

about the boat,

the question in regard to the

The Starry up the

Flag.

He was

and wished to

settle

present ownership of

told Levi that he had given

money which Ruel had

identified as his own.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. "

But, Levi, you have the

bill

167

of sale of the boat,"

he added.

"I won't keep

"I suppose,

you," said Levi. out,

The

Mr. Hatch;

it,

don't

Flag

Starry

I'll

give

back to

things have turned

belong

any

longer."

"Well,

given back the money, and I think I

I've

ought to have the boat again." " You can take her,

the cove;

Jies in

replied Levi, sadly.

sir,"

or, if

you wish,

I'll

She

her back to

sail

Gloucester for you."

"Well, ing

know," added Mr. Hatch, scratch

don't

head violently

his

how

matters look, some ing things will

now

for

gloomily

arid

bright

boat

you may time,"

visions

had

answered

and

away.

beautiful

believe

uncle stole that money, and laid

passed

I'm pretty certain he changed the let

him have them

this

Levi,

of owning

the

you

as well take

sailing

me.

right in the end."

any other

the

"Bad

perplexity.

but I don't see that I

will;

have the boat;

likely to

his

or other, I can't help think

come out

"I know they

her

morning."

bills

when

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

168

"Then, of

course, he

has

you paid to Mr.

thos"e

Hatch," said the constable.

"I'm almost sure he

"Do you know bet I do!

"I'll

young fisherman,

has."

them, Levi?" I studied

them

well," replied the

"All three of them were

eagerly.

on the same bank, and they were new and

"Those

had

court

were on three

of them was a

banks, but one

new

one,"

stiff."

different

added the

constable.

"Yes; and that new one was on the same bank mine

saw

the Continental National Bank, Boston.

when Ruel looked

dred-dollar bill

them.

I'll

bet the hun

was the one paid by Mr. Watson

Dock Vincent." " I've a great

mind

to get out a search warrant,

and see what money the old

skinflint has

on hand,"

continued Mr. Gayles.

Mr. Hatch thought he would be willing to show his

money,

remove

"We

all

everything was right with him, and thus

suspicion against him.

can go

he added.

down and

see

him, at any rate,"

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "I

go with you,

will

The Stary Flag "About the boat, I

ivhere

" I

know they

know

don't

the

come out

will,

take her

I'll

whole,

Hatch; "I

won't," continued Mr.

ing that things will

said Levi.

lies,"

round with me, Levi.

want to show you

for

1G9

can't

guess

help think

right."

Mr. Hatch," answered Levi,

decidedly; for however dark the prospect looked, he

did not at any time lose his faith in the future. "I'll

Hatch

you what

tell

" ;

business

I'll

do,

Levi," continued Mr.

boat in your care

the

leave

settled

I'll

You

up.

and Mr. Gayles can have an eye to any

till

this

will use her carefully;

her, if there's

trouble."

"Thank

you,

Mr. Hatch.

sir!

own

her now," said Levi:

Nathan has got the money

we can make of Mr. The party paying

much "uncle

ought to pay for her."

"Mr. Watson must come here added Mr. Gayles.

obliged to you,

her; but I don't

use

I'd like to

think I shall ever

much

I'm very

"Now we

will

few days,"

go and see what

Fair-field."

arrived at the house of the miser, after

visit

The

Starry Flag

the

cove.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

170

They were ushered

the kitchen

into

by Mrs.

Fair-

field.

cried

Where

sakes!

"Massy the

himself at

the

been doin

hain't

whom

after it

dust,

words sounded

soot, presented

airth

smooched " with the

visitors, in spite

driver

Fairfield,

which caused

soot,

and

of a charcoal

of the seriousness of the

making a very

field tried to laugh, so,

you

an accusation.

Mr. Fair>

occasion, could not restrain their laughter.

hev

evidently rubbed his hand across his face,

was thoroughly

The

been doin nothin," replied Mr.

he looked very much cart.

and

ashes,

"What

door.

his wife's

He had

her husband, begrimed from

matron, as

head to foot with

hev you been, Nathan?"

him

painful

look

all

effort

the

comical.

"What "I've

hev you been doin?" repeated his wife.

been

that

fixin

last night," replied

Mr.

chimbly that blowed over

Fairfield, finding it necessary

to explain his sooty aspect.

"With your

best

clothes

exclaimed his careful spouse.

on,

Nathan

Fairfield!"

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE

AITS.

of that," he replied,

now

think

didn't

own

ished at his

171

aston

recklessness in the use of his best

clothes.

Mr.

move

Gayles then explained that, in order to all

re-

Mr. Fairfield had better exhibit

suspicion,

what money he had on hand. " Sartin

;

I'm glad you've come.

every dollar of plied

the

money

miser,

with

I've

got in the

sudden

course the

bills

house," re

energy, as he

out his pocket-book, and handed

show you

I'll

to the

took

officer.

which Mr. Watson had paid to

Levi were not to be found in his pocket-book, or in the bureau, where he kept his spare funds.

"I hope you are field, in

make "

satisfied

now," said Mr. Fair-

a tone as triumphant as the speaker could

it.

The

bills

don't

seem to be about you, or in your

bureau," replied Mr. Gayles.

"I think we had better look

into that chimney,"

suggested Levi.

Mr. Fairfield turned

pale,

and the black " smooches "

on his face looked blacker than before by the con trast.

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

172

CHAPTER XV. LEVI EXPLORES THE CHIMNEY.

FAIRFIELD

was appalled when Levi sug

MR.

gested that the chimney should be examined.

He was

very certain that his ward had stolen the

wallet and hidden that

his

guardian

money, it

uncle was it

and Levi was just

it,

guilty

made but

little

would be

lost to

of the crime.

the

who

stole the

in the

chimney,

difference

were found

for if the wallet

as certain

him when the storm had blown

over. "

What do you want

for?" demanded a readiness to "

may

he,

when

look the

into

the

chimbly

constable exhibited

adopt Levi's suggestion. find

the

money

there,"

replied

Mr.

G-ayles.

" I begin to see into this business

added Mr. Fairfield

" ;

and I

ain't

little

grain,"

a goin to

hav

THK YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. you ransackin

a sarch- warrant ? " "

Then you

decidedly

can't

got

officer

said

further,"

of the law. the

miser,

he knew very well that the search

for

;

go no

chimney would

the

Have you

notliin.

have not," answered the

;

house for

173

sure

involve him in

trouble. " I

procure a search-warrant,

will

willing I should

you are not

the examination without one."

I ain't willin."

"Well, " If

make

you are an innocent man, Mr.

Fairfield, I sup

pose the search would do you more good than harm. a fact that about one half the people in town

It's

believe "

you

stole Ruel's

They no "

miser. steal

"You hole in " I

stole

think so,"

brother-in-law's

protested

Do you

I'm an innocent man.

money ?

it,

Mr.

reckon

think I'd

when

there's a

Fairfield."

can

You've

as well as I

that

the

can see through a mill-stone

stone, too.

know

business

money."

;

and

got that

see

through this mill

boy

;

and

you don't

do what a bad boy he

money 15*

don't

tell

is.

know he

He did

THE STAREY FLAG, OB

174

Now

What

wants

does

and he hid

Now

know.

that

all

mean

somewhere

let

don't

chimbly

in the

he wants to

out that I hid

look

the

stole

money,

chimbly, for's all I

you

find

and make

it,

He's a bad boy, and

it.

don't

look right for you to hear to him, and not mind a

word "

that I say," continued Mr. Fairfield.

Uncle

Nathan,

been poking

in the

I'd

chimney

for,

know what the

the court, with your best clothes on in a very pointed

"Don't

tell

snarled

money

;

and

think

been

I've

Mr. Gayles, that

fixin

boy

it?"

said I

yes, he said so in the court, and

I'm goin to make him prove " I

inquired Levi,

you the top of the chimbly blowed

uncle.

the

manner.

in last night in the squall,

stole the

you've

thing after

first

can

prove

it."

before

get through

with this business," said Levi. u

Well, you

ain't

goin pokin about

house no

more, not without you have a sarch-warrant," added uncle Nathan, very decidedly. " Don't

you think you had better

look up that

let

Mr. Gayles

chimney?" interposed Mr Hatch.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. " I don't think

no such thing, and

175

I ain't agoin to

it."

"Just as you "I

know

and hid

it.

and says

it,

you look " I

say,

Mr.

just as I say.

it's

mind

If he's a it

Fairfield."

Levi

money,

to confess that he stole

in the chimbly,

stole the

I'm willing to

let

there."

didn't

the money, and I didn't hide

steal

and I'm not going to confess

it,"

said Levi,

it,

emphati

cally.

Mr. Fairfield positively refused to permit the chim

ney to be searched, unless the with the proper left

the

authority to do

was armed

officer so,

and the party

house to procure the warrant

but Levi

;

determined to remain near the house, and observe the

movements of

his uncle,

to spoil his best clothes a chimney, unless for

was bills

quite sure

which

who was

by exploring the

some extraordinary

that Mr. Fairfield

Mr. Hatch

equally confident

not the

that

interior of

reason.

had changed the

showed him, and the

man

he_

two hundred and

was fifty

dollars paid

him by Mr. Watson was somewhere

the house.

His uncle's sooty appearance suggested

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

176

the hiding-place

and, warrant

;

was determined

money was hidden

whether

discover

in the

no warrant,

not

lie

the

Without inform

chimney.

ing Mr. Gayles of his purpose, he returned to his uncle's house. "

What do you want now ? " demanded

uncle

than, as he entered the kitchen. " I

want

old

clothes,"

Levi

replied

" ;

I'm

going a fishing." "

You

ain't

goin up "

Mr. Fair field.

make

out

You've hid

You

that

stairs,

villain,

you the

stole

how,"

want

know

you, you

where

mean

fixed so as to git

change his

and lay

money

" !

If he put that

ain't

a goin

to have

just

things

into trouble."

Mrs. Fairfield brought the old clothes the chamber,

to have the officer find

it.

put

you

old clothes."

" Git 'em for him, wife.

the chimbly, I

villain,

it,

you

somewhere, and you want to put .

" I

money

a place where the constable will find to me.

interposed

You want

down from

and Levi went into the wood-shed

dress.

was

clear that his uncle

would

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

177

own room, and he was

not permit him to enter his

very anxious to examine the interior of the chimney before

guardian had an opportunity

his

When

the stolen wallet. clothes,

he had

on his old

put

he went out doors, and looked up at the a " born sailor," nimble

He was

broken chimney top.

and dizzy heights had no terrors

as a cat,

Springing to the roof of the shed the top of the house, whose rattled

remove

and snapped beneath

top of the chimney.

first,

for him.

and then to

half-decayed

his feet,

shingles

he reached the

was spacious enough even

at the outlet to permit his passage

Bracing his knees against the

down.

sides,

and using such

projecting bricks as afforded

him a

ually descended the flue

he reached the fireplace

in his

own

chamber.

give him more

inside of the

till

Removing the

light,

chimney

foothold, he grad

;

fireboard so as

he carefully examined the

but the wallet was not to be

found.

While he was changing shed, Mr. Fairfield

cealed

that

clothes in the

had removed

in another place.

concluded

his

the

again,

wood

and con

The miser had promptly

finding

the

wallet

its

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

178

hiding-place

original

him than

would to Levi,

soon

seen,

would be of more damage

after

especially as

he had been

the examination, covered

with

soot.

His uncle had outwitted

Levi was disappointed.

him, though of course the young

He was

it.

man

did not

know

reasonably certain that his guardian had

he could

the money, but

prove nothing.

turned through the flue to the roof of the house, and

made

his

way down

quite probable

that

to the solid earth again. his

It is

knew what he was

uncle

about, but he said nothing.

Squire Saunders declined to issue a search-warrant for the

requires that the object to be searched particularly designated.

had

had been

lost

owner

;

The law

purpose indicated by Mr. Gayles.

and

had been

The

bills

for,

shall

which Ruel Belcher

and restored to the

identified

did not appear that any other

lost.

Nothing could be done,

bills

therefore,

but wait for the time to which the examination of Levi

had

been postponed.

the following day

Mr. Gayles went to Boston, and found Mr. Watson,

who was deeply

interested

the welfare

of the

THE TOtJNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. young fisherman, and promised

179

to be present at the

examination. " I

would go down to Rockport and stay two or

three weeks, if there

was a decent

place to bathe,"

Mr. Watson, as the constable was leaving

said

bis

counting-room. "

There

a better place on the coast," replied

isn't

Mr. Gayles, emphatically. " I won't trust

She in

daughter on those rocks again.

so fond of the salt water, that she

it,

she

There

near the shore."

isn't

Back Beach,

better

place

in our town,"

But that

Well, you can board

new

family.

down

in the village, within

Mr. Babson has two

of you."

to 'engage

than

house, and his folks will take

Mr. Watson liked the

bathing-room

the world

a mile from Pigeon Cove."

nice rooms in a

stable

added Mr. Gayles.

a stone's throw of the beach.

first-rate care

must be

idea,

and instructed the con

the rooms for him, and

Back Beach

for

the

fit

use

up a of his

the Saturday afternoon following, he took

possession of his apartments at Mr.

Bab son's.

Two

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

180

rooms under the public

little

down

nearly

hall,

which extended

to high-water mark, had been fitted

for dressing-rooms,

and before evening Bessie Watson

and her father were again floundering

The

in the brine.

water-nymph was delighted with the

little

was

the beach

uji

place,

so hard, the water so clear, and the

billows so long and gentle.

While the

little

ing in the waves,

maiden and her father were sport

The

Flag, with

Starry

sail

all

spread to the gentle breeze, glided up as near to the

depth of \^ater would permit.

shore

the

lived

the boat now.

uncle's house,

forward.

and had

He would

slept

Dected, and he had run

not go to his

two nights

Mr. Watson and

his

down

Levi

in the

cuddy

daughter were

to see them.

ex-

When

they came out of the water, he took them on board at

Old

Pier.

"Levi, I'm glad to see you," said Mr. Watson, as

he stepped into the boat

" ;

and Bessie thinks you

are a hero of the first water." " Salt water, father," laughed Bessie.

Thank

you,

sir.

would have given more to

see

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. Thursday than any other man

last

you

181

in the world,"

replied Levi. " I'm

had so much

sorry you have

trouble, Levi,

about this boat," added Mr. Watson.

But

see

you keep The Starry Flag."

"The owner the

bill

sale.

"But you sand

when

lent

well

me.

that I I

him bad

her now." she costs

Mr. Gayles told

know very

and there

her, if

affair.

the

bills

Mr. Hatch the

paid

didn't

a thou

about this

really

money you

own

I gave

think your uncle changed Mr. Hatch let him look at them ? "

you

done

her to me.

I don't

shall

dollars.

" I

lent

steal

Ruel's wallet,

only one other person that could have

it."

You mean your Yes,

sir

;

uncle."

he has never treated

wants to break

me down.

I believe

well,

and he

he has the

bills

now which you gave me, and I mean to keep watch of him

"Be

till

I find them."

prudent, Levi, and

will

come out

right,"

added Mr. Watson.

The

Starry Flag stood

out as far as Half Tide

THE STABRY FLAG, OK

182

Rock, and

then returned.

The merchant and

his

daughter were delighted with the boat, and prom ised themselves

much

pleasure in sailing and fishing

in her.

There comes the

Griffin," said Levi, as the

was approaching the Old

Flag

Pier.

"What's the Griffin?" "

She

who

Dock

Vincent's schooner.

the

man

picked you up the other day."

The his

Griffin

came

passengers,

skipper's

" little

to anchor,

could

not

and Levi,

he landed

help thinking about

her

plan," and wondering whether the

present visit of the merchant and his daughter would

not bring trouble to one or the other of them.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER

183

XVI.

ON MIKE'S POINT.

FAIRFIELD

MR.on though

was the most miserable man

Even

Cape Ann.

voracious

him

intensely.

of a boy of

appetite

traps, into

which, with

he might

what was worse, would stay

this time,

all

fall,

his

done

was plotting and

his

money.

least

reputation,

and,

wished the boy

come home

nights,

keep the run of him.

boat-builder

He was

his part,

worried

shrewdness and world-

losing

The miser had changed

suspected.

his

home, or at

so that he could

fifteen,

him; that he was setting awful

conspiring against

the

of Levi,

could not help believing that the

young fisherman, during

absence

saved the provisions necessary to satisfy

the

policy,

the

handed to him

he knew what others

fearful that

and that

bills

he had

only

slightly over

in his efforts to cover

up the

THE STAERY FLAG, OB

184

wrong which he had

actually committed, he

should

prove himself to be guilty of what he had not done.

But niation,

the

harassed

given Levi the

money

would not prove

esti-

doubts

and

that he

changed

might swear that he had

buy the

had

that

came

If worse

was

proved

Mr. Watson

bills.

money.

not

own

good, in his

still

though

could

fears.

were

his chances

boat,

not

to worst,

but

stolen

and

that

Ruel's

found

himself compelled to sacrifice the two hundred and fifty dollars,

he could place the wallet

The

Flag,

Starry

Would

fasten

the

was by no means

guilt

some

place,

upon the boy.

hopeless,

as well as the miser

other

in a locker in

though

which

The

did not

case

work

had hoped and expected.

Levi had a powerful friend in Mr. Watson.

was a man of wealth and troubled Mr.

Fairfield.

and

this

fact

The accused would be

ably

influence,

defended at the examination, which was yet to take place.

ployed,

Probably there would be smart lawyers

who would

indulge in ugly cross-examinations,

and dig down into the deepest depths of human nature.

gave him a cold sweat to think of the

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

awkward

questions he would be

tradict himself.

But

the case looked desperate on

examination, he

the

day before

change the whole aspect of policy he

the

of the

which would be made to induce him to con

efforts

the

asked, and

185

easily

by carrying out the

had adopted when he found the wallet

chimney.

Mr.

Fail-field still

would be committed able to

could

for trial,

believed that Levi

and that he should be

keep the money himself.

Dock Vincent had

delivered his cargo of fish in

Boston, and returned to Rockport, where he expected to

obtain

Levi

left

another freight the following week.

Old Pier,

landing his passengers, he

after

He was

passed near the Griffin.

Dock

sorry to see

come back, now that Mr. Watson had returned. was

afraid the grasping villain

for a larger reward,

mention his name.

Dock was mean

would make a demand

upon the merchant

ble of doing very

things.

and perhaps

mean man, and capa As the Flag stood

away from the shore, Levi almost made up his mind to

to Mr.

say something

plan,"

and put him on

tion of the wretch

;

his

but, as

16*

Watson about

the

"little

guard against the extor it

might look

like a hint,

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

186

mer

or at least open the question as to whether the

chant had

sufficiently

rewarded those who saved

his

daughter and himself, he decided to say nothing about the matter.

Levi stood out from, the shore to the deep water,

where

anchor there. dark, laid

low

his boat could float at

and in

After furling his

tide, sails,

was nearly

he concluded to " pipe to supper."

He had

of provisions, consisting of a small

stock

boiled ham, bread, cakes, and pies. ities for

and came to

He had

or coffee, though he

making tea

of an apparatus for making coffee with a

which he intended to procure

;

facil

had heard spirit

lamp,

but he had a breaker

of water on board, with whose contents he was sat isfied for

the present.

The young

fisherman,

was very fond of good

without being an

living;

and certainly

epicure, his fare

much better than that to on board the boat was r which he had been accustomed miserly uncle;

and,

satisfaction, there

what

filled

was plenty of

a prince, and having cleared

was a swinging board

at the house of his

the measure it.

away

of his

Levi supped his table,

in the cuddy,-

which

.he sat for an

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

187

The

Starry

hour watching

the

undulating

Flag gently rose and lows,

and listening to

their dull

Then he thought of triumph which

on the long, regular

fell

upon the beaches and the

the

sea

roar

they broke

rocks.

the coming examination, of

him when Mr. Watson

awaited

gave his evidence, for he believed that he would

was time

fully

The darkness gathered around

establish his innocence.

him, and

bil

pipe below.

He had

not

yet purchased the mattresses for the bunks of his boat, but

he had made up a bed of old clothes in

one of them, using the tattered dory for a covering.

sail

of the

dingy

If he ate like a prince, he slept

better than princes are traditionally said to sleep, for

he did not wake It

till

was Sunday, and,

from his

uncle's,

daylight.

he had procured

all

his clothes

he dressed himself in his

best, after

he had washed down the boat and put her

He had party

declined

offer

in order.

of ten dollars to take a

out to the fishing-grounds on that

day, and

running in at Old Pier, he went to church and to

Sunday school

as usual.

The next morning he went

after dog-fish,

and

pro-

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

188

cured a

whose

full cargo,

the funds in his exchequer.

washed up the

was

occasion

intended to devote the

He had

complimentary

spoken of the

Bessie

on Saturday

trip

and Mr. Watson had consented,

for

he had

perfect confidence in Levi's prudence, as well

seamanship.

Mrs. Watson had been

was always

and she declined to go.

pleasure,

make

the

his

invited, but she

sick that sailing parties afforded her

occasion

had invited Estelle Robarts,

and

clean

day to a pleasure-trip to Thatcher's Island.

rest of the

night,

three o'clock in the

boat, so that she

sweet as a lady's barge.

Watson.

dollars U.

he had sold his fare to Mr. Gayles, and

afternoon

The

added ten

livers

more agreeable Haskell,

In order to

Annie

Bessie,

Levi

Rowe, Jenny

John Marshall, and Charley Manning,

join the party.

Levi always did it

" the

handsome thing

" ;

and though

was, perhaps, rather extravagant, he expended three

dollars

and a half

in the purchase of the nicest cake

the confectioners made, and in fruit and iced lemon ade.

All the party except Bessie

Old Pier, the place appointed,

Watson were

at four o'clock.

But

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPB ANN. where was the

189

bright, particular star of the occasion ?

She did not come.

Charley Manning volunteered to

go up to Mr. Babson's and inform her that the com

pany were waiting "

for her.

She has gone

Charley,

when

clown

Central

returned,

Wharf,"

breathless

"She thought

haste

he had

place

where we were to go on board."

used.

"All right: there

good

with

the

was

the

that

breeze,

said

and we can

run round there in fifteen minutes," replied Levi, as he cast off from the wharf, and hoisted the

"But she may get

jib.

tired of waiting," said

Jenny-

Robarts; "she must have been there half an hour

now."

"There

run over and

Charley Parsons on the wharf; he will tell

her to wait

till

we come,"

suggested

Estelle.

Charley Parsons was a good fellow, and readily

promised to do Levi this invited to

join the

fa^ or, especially as

party.

out of the dock, and as

he was

The Starry Flag stood

the wind

was west, he was

obliged to stand over towards Knowlton's Wharf, in

order to get a "slant" which would carry

him

clear

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

190

of the high wall that protected the docks from storms.

This course carried him close to the

a boat, and

Starry Flag

There

towards Mike's Point.

pull

was plenty of wind, though

make the proposed

which

Levi saw Dock Vincent put off from her

passed her, in

As The

lay at anchor in the bay.

still

Griffin,

was not heavy enough

uncomfortable,

trip

and tho

Flag soon disappeared beyond the high wall. Charley Parsons,

was a good boy;

see Bessie,

invited to

on his

way

to run

home and

When

his

tell

he reached

expected

find

and as he had been

go with the party, he thought

he was going.

where

who had been commissioned

proper

mother thnt

Central Wharf, she

Bessie,

was

not

there.

The

fair

from, the city

young lady

we have

was very fond

already more than

of the

salt

hinted,

and she was especially delighted with

ing.

With

the

wharf

was

time.

she

water,

childish impatience she at

sail

had hastened

which she had understood the party

embark, half an

hour before the appointed

She had nearly exhausted her patience when heard the clock strike

four.

The

Starry Flag

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. was not

at the wharf,

of the breakwater.

was packing

and was not to be seen inside

Then

she inquired of a

He had

where she was.

fish

191

man who just seen

the Flag at Old Pier, and he told her so. Satisfied

hastened

some mistake had been made, she

that

wharf indicated, and

to the

reached

the

head of the pier just in time to see the boat stand ing over towards Knowlton's Wharf.

Believing that

could hail her from Mike's Point, she ran with

she

her might, and did not stop to breathe

all

stood on the jagged rocks which land.

till

she

formed the head

But The Starry Flag had gone about on the

other tack, and

breakwater.

going to his Just

was now half way over to the great

Charley Parsons had missed Bessie by

home

before he delivered his message.

as Bessie reached the rocks

Dock Vincent landed from

way up

the

on Mike's Point,

his boat,

place where

and making

his

she stood, immediately

recognized her.

"Ah, Miss "

Bessie," said he.

O, Mr. Dock, I

so tired

and so disappointed "

gasped she, exhausted with running.

"Why, what

the matter, miss?"

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

192

Bessie explained what the matter was. well, if that

"O,

make

it all

all,

right," replied

There was Griffin

Miss Bessie, I can soon

Dock.

something about the

that the

an evil-looking

little

maiden did not

of the

skipper

He was

like.

man, and though he had rendered

her father and herself a great service, she did not like

feel

and she instinctively shrank

trusting him,

from him. "

What

Get into

can you do for

me ? "

and

boat,

she asked, timidly.

I will pull off

and put

you on board of The Starry Flag," answered Dock.

"But you can't catch her." "She will come about in over this

way

"I think I

moment, and stand

again." will

wait here, then," added she,

she had not the courage to go in a boat with

evil

man; and

the

seemed to require her

Heaven gives

Dock firm,

tried

instinct

to refuse

to the virtuous to

for

such

of self-preservation the instinct which

and the innocent.

persuade her, but she was timidly

and refused to go.

"I won't hurt you,"

said he, rather rudely.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "I think

I will wait here,

" I think

you won't,"

of her, and taking her

Bessie

tried

193

Mr. Dock."

said he, suddenly laying hold

in his

arms

like a child.

scream, but her voice failed her.

She attempted to escape, but Dock was a powerful man, and held Tier a baby, and bore

her

easily as

down

he would have held

the rocks

boat.

This was part of his " little plan."

towards

hia

194

TliK

STABBY FLAG, OB

CHAPTER XVIL THE EVIL MAN. >

was paralyzed with

the violence of the evil man.

at it

WATSON

ESSIE

terror

She found

impossible to struggle, or even to utter a scream.

The

rocks were rough, and the passage to the water

and dangerous ; but Dock threaded

difficult

in safety over the slippery boulders

his

way

to the boat, in

the stern-sheets of which he deposited his burden. " Don't

tones as

mand.

be frightened, Miss

Bessie,"

won't hurt you

he,

nature could

soothing as his rough "I

said

you keep

still

com and

behave yourself."

"Let me go

do, Mr. Dock," pleaded she,

when

she could find voice for utterance. "

Keep

still

where you as

replied

Dock,

pushed

off the boat.

be,

and

hauled

I won't hurt you,"

the

painter,

and

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. "

What

" you going to do with me, Mr. Dock ?

are

now what

matter

done

I've

much

195

for

I'm going to do.

anybody

as I

After

have for you, I

don't like to be insulted."

O, Mr. Dock, what have I

"Insulted!

moaned

Bessie, alarmed

by the words of her

done?" terrible

captor. "

You

your

wouldn't trust me, even after I have saved

and your

life,

too.

father's,

offered

put

you on board of The Starry Flag, and you wouldn't let

me do

"No

That was an

it.

" I didn't

mean

But

signs, tie

Mr. Dock

I'll

will

you keep

you attempt

stuff

you hand and

"You

not

still

and mind what

holler, or

make any

foot."

cruel,

Mr. Dock. let

me go back

am to

mother."

" Don't

" !

handkerchief in your mouth, and

frightened almost to death.

indeed I didn't

matter what you meant; you insulted me.

won't hurt you say.

it,

insult."

whine

But what

;

are

I tell

you

I won't hurt you."

you going to do with

"I'm only going to

put

you

me ? "

board of The

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

196

Starry Flag, with Levi.

shut up, and don't

Now,

say another word," answered Dock, shipping his oars,

and pulling the boat round.

man would do what he

Bessie hoped the evil

but

would,

hopes

and,

;

her she

were in

sat

Dock

frame trembled.

and

fears

stronger

than her

boat, her delicate

the

towards the

pulled

said

Griffin,

receded from the shore, Bessie dis

as the bout

covered The Starry Flag beyond the high wall, by

Old "

you

Pier.

You ?

irill

put

into

said she, rising

The Starry Flag

from her

seat,

won''

and watching

the beautiful sail-boat, as she glided swiftly on her course. "

plied

course I

Dock,

" I will will

;

will.

Sit

down and keep

still,"

gruffly.

be ever so much obliged to you

and I

will

do anything

for

you

exclaimed

Bessie, earnestly. "

You

are very willing to trust

now," sneered

Dock. " I will trust

you now, Mr. Dock.

any harm, and I wouldn't

insult

you

I didn't

mean

for all the world."

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN.

197

"Perhaps you wouldn't now." In a few moments the boat was within hail of

whose deck were two men watching

the Griffin, on

them. "

Shake out the mainsail, and hoist

Dock "

to his

What

anew by

fied

" I

you going this

" !

shouted

crew.

little

are

asked Bessie,

terri

ominous order.

going round

Gloucester

to-night,"

replied.

But you were going ashore when you met me."

" I

have changed

"And you

are

not rowing

Flag now," added the all

mind."

The Starry

towards

fair prisoner,

beginning to lose

hope again. " I can't catch the sail-boat

with a pair of

oars,"

answered Dock, as the boat came up alongside the Griffin.

Now, jump aboard my

don't

want

to,"

vessel."

pleaded Bessie.

"It don't make any difference whether you want to or not "

You

will

you put

won't you, Mr.

will.

Come, be

on board of The Starry Flag

Dock?" 17*

" lively

THE STAKBY FLAG, OB

198 "

course I

round to Gloucester?

and

could hardly

Dock

you I'm going

tell

run in by the breakwater,

I'll

What

hail the Flag.

Bessie

Don't I

will.

are

tell

you

what she was

afraid

of!

Vincent's plan certainly seemed to be a good

one, and he appeared to be carrying faith.

of?"

afraid

Her common

out in good

sense assured her that

be impossible to overtake a swift-sailing

The Starry

Dock promised

and the manner of the

the

fairly,

man were

evil

would like

craft,

But though

Flag, in a row-boat.

looked right, and

all

tones against

him, and, try as hard as she could to trust him, she

found

utterly impossible to

"Come, he

I'll

took

so.

help you on board," said the skipper,

her

by the arm, and

led her to the

vessel's side.

His touch, with horror. could

not

in spite of herself,

He was

resist

climbed over the

him. rail,

schooner, whither she

a terrible

man

With Dock's

thrill

her

to her, but she assistance, she

and reached the deck of the

was followed by her

when he had secured the "

seemed to

captor,

boat.

Now, you may go down

into the cabin,

and stay

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. there

till

you," continued

call

199 to

Dock, pointing

the companion-way. " I don't

;

I'll

stay on deck,

please," replied Bessie.

you M

want to go down

But

the cabin,"

added the

"You

skipper, rudely.

deck, and

way on

the

and you must go down

I don't please,

into

are in

you should get knocked

overboard by the swinging of a boom, what would

me ? "

your father say to "

O, I will be very careful, Mr.

there

no danger of

Don't make

me go

into the cabin, if

want to put

you don't go below

you

and the

upon

I like

vessels."

hands on you again, but

I shall

of firmness

expression

and really

please.

have to do

so."

There was

Bessie looked up into his ugly face.

;

being knocked overboard.

to look at the water, and the waves, " I don't

Dock

dark and malignant

that she dared not disobey him.

Slowly she

descended the steep ladder into the gloomy cabin,

and the

she

felt

damp and

though she were going down into awful

and tidy cabin which trim

packets

;

but

tomb.

was not the clean

may be found on board

our

was

dirty,

the

furniture

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

HOO

broken and disorderly, and a

odor haunted th

vile

the combined effluvia of bilge water, greasy

place

cooking, and

mouldy woollens.

She seated herself on a locker before one of the bunks, which, in place of a berth-sack, was furnished

with old coats and ragged garments slush

and

dirt.

a young lady brought up amid

the refinements of wealth and taste,

some

hole,

and Bessie sighed

of the open deck.

moved

this

was a loath

for the pure, fresh air

men had

time the

the stops from the mainsail, and the

hoisted.

The canvas was

light in the deck,

down

covered with

into

sail

and the sun shed

his

bright rays

the gloomy cabin, removing some of

and disorder of the the poor

girl,

anchor

was

by the

hoisted.

odors of her

vile

She

companion-way, and saw the jib

and

the

vessel

swing round

rudder creaked, the

filth

and made nearly

sick at heart,

floating tomb, heard the rattling of the

the

its

place.

BO at a less poetical organ

was

thus removed from a sky

sombre aspect, but revealing more clearly the

Then

fly

looked

up on

to her

sehooner heeled

chain cable

up its

course. over,

the stay,

The

and she

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

201

The

heard the waves rippling under the counter. motion, and

Griffin

was

decide

whether Dock Vincent intended to put her

on board The Starry Flag or

few minutes would

not.

was a moment

of terrible anxiety to her.

She could not think of any possible reason

Dock Vincent should wish

She could not see what he was to gain

his vessel.

But, pure, innocent maiden, she had no sus

it.

picion of the

wickedness which lurks in some men's

She had read, but never

hearts. will

why

to keep her on board of

their souls

sell

the using.

for

realized, that

some

the gold which perishes in

She could not believe that Dock meant

any harm to

her, or

even that he meant to detain

her on board beyond a few hours.

The she

Griffin rose

sped

though she

her

still

and

fell

on the long

way, whither

billows, as

knew

Bessie

hoped that she should be delivered

over to the charge of the gallant Levi, in

had almost as much confidence as for

his

not,

her

whom

own

she

father;

mild eye, his gentle bearing, and his noble

conduct, invited her admiration, and assured her she

might trust him.

THE STARRY FLAG, OE

202

The moments were long and heavy glanced at her watch, and found

She could not

o'clock.

was

sailing,

near

her

was

five

Dock

come

did not

though she occasionally heard

again,

his orders

that

which way the vessel

tell

nor where she was.

voice over her head, as

gave

to her.

the

he stood

men on

his

the helm and

the forecastle.

wanted to go on deck, but she dared not do

She

so, for

she feared the act would bring the frowns and the

abuse of the evil

The main

man upon

cabin

of the

her. Griffin

had four

berths,

only two of which appeared to be used by the men, the other two being occupied as places for storage. Bessie had already discovered

these,

two doors

at the after

She ventured to open one of

part of the cabin.

and found a diminutive state-room,

was one of the

stern

windows of the

vessel.

which

Eagerly

she looked out upon the heaving sea, to obtain some intelligence for her;

when

which would indicate the

fate

store

and hope almost deserted her sinking heart

she

found that the Griffin was headed

the land, at least

two miles

off.

from

She could see the

high wall or breakwater which protected Old Pier.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAX OF CAPB ANK. Off

Light, which Levi

was

that

The

the

Island,

had pointed out to her when she

Starry Flag, in going to Thatcher's

of the pleasure party, must

destination

pass very near to this light-house. therefore,

certain,

She

with him on Saturday afternoon.

sailing

knew

Straitsmouth

another direction she could see

203

Dock Vincent

that

was absolutely did not

mean

to keep his promise.

She threw herself on a bench

the

little

state,

loom, which was hardly high enough to permit her to stand

The

break.

came

and wept as though her heart would

up,

freely

tears

now.

which had refused to flow before

Then she

knelt

down and

the prayers she had ever learned from lips.

future

afforded

They was

her

big and

some

said all

her mother's

comfort

;

but

the

black with terrors that no

peace came even from prayer, though her heart was strengthened by her devotions.

While

she

she heard the ladder.

was step

still

gazing at the distant land,

Dock Vincent on

the cabin

Fearing that he would abuse her for pre

suming to enter the state-room, she hastily returned to the cabin, closing the door behind her.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

204 "

O, Mr.

Dock

upon the cabin

cried

he stepped down

she, as

floor.

"Well, what's the matter

now?" demanded

he,

with brutal coarseness.

"Will you

me?"

tell

me what you

pleaded the poor

" If

makes any

going to make some " If will

you

give

will

put

you

all

girl.

difference

money

are going to do witli

out of you."

on shore again,

the

I'm

you, I will.

father

money you want," sobbed

Bessie. " I

" if

know he

you "

put

will,

but not yet," sneered Dock.

on shore

see

it."

;

I will give

watch

will."

Let

She gave him the watch and "

you

I'll

see about

it,"

chain.

he replied, putting the watch

into his pocket.

The luccess.

" little

plan

appeared

thus

far

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER

205

XVIII.

THE STARRY FLAG GOES TO SEA. she

ISN'T arts,

waves that

a nice boat!" exclaimed Jenny Rob-

The

Starry Flag bounded over the long

from the open

rolled in

sea.

"Perfectly splendid!" replied Estelle.

"She the

"She

a good sea boat

practical Charley is

what she went through the other day, I

Levi?" asked

Manning.

sea boat

best

the

isn't she,

on the Cape.

After

in the squall off Brace's Cove,

satisfied that she will

stand any

thing," replied Levi, with enthusiasm.

shouldn't

be afraid to cross the Atlantic in this boat."

"Cross the Atlantic!" ejaculated John Marshall. "I

mean

like a

into

so,"

added Levi,

lady in a heavy sea.

it,

a pig; but

and don't make any 18

fuss

" quietly.

She don't

She behaves

stick her nose

she jumps over the waves,

about

either.

I don't

THE STAKRT FLAG, OB

206

suppose she would be very comfortable to cross tha but so

ocean in;

would just as

lief

as the

far

safety

concerned, I

as not."

"I shouldn't want to go with you," said Jenny.

"I rather

"You would whether

have

you,"

don't

replied

Levi,

have

girls

blows hard." to have Bessie

Watson round

blows or not," pouted Jenny.

" I don't

to " I

ungallantly.

round when

girls

want

shouldn't

think I should," continued Levi.

Whej

get wet and drabbled, they feel mean, and want

go ashore." "Bessie wouldn't,

interposed Estelle. est

man

in the

"Bessie

any

the sea the girls

the

little

girl,

them.

but I don't believe in

" Pooh

all

rough weather;

Women

ought to stay at home when they are

great'

and she didn't make

even when she got carried

going on the water place

are the

except her father."

other day;

for

in the boat, Levi,"

She thinks you

world

a nice

about

fuss

you were

can't vote,

blows hard

off in

by any

it isn't

and they ;

besides,

the time getting seasick."

men

get seasick too," replied Jenny, smartly.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

men

Levi knew that some

had not much respect

did get seasick

;

207

but he

such men, and he permit

for

ted the argument to go against him, for he had to

some rather

the

The young

entrance to Boat Cove. for

any problem

and the Flag was run

two

navigation needing attention

difficult

man was good

piers,

come

sailing

a boat,

through the cove to the

safely

which yawned,

fisher

the

of some gigantic monster, at

half-closed

entrance

the

jawe the

dock.

"She

isn't

here!" shouted Charley Parsons, from,

the end of Central Wharf, as the boat approached. "

Where

"A man

she

demanded

says he told her

Levi.

you were

and she has gone over there to "

Run

over and

her

tell

Old

Pier,

find you."

are here, Charley," said

Levi, vexed at the delay

Charley

Parsons

hastened

commission, while Levi ran the

dock, and

tral

Wharf.

moored her fifteen

turned, having been

don't

away

The at

execute

Starry

his

Flag into

the steps on

Cen

minutes the messenger re

unable to find Bessie.

understand

it,"

said Levi,

who would

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

208 soon have

thought of going

Thatcher's

Island

without the boat as without Bessie. "

Nor

I either," replied Charley.

She wasn't on

the pier, or anywhere round there." It

was decided that the whole party should land

and go

In half an hour one of

in search of Bessie.

them reported that he had met a boy who had seen Bessie going out towards Mike's Point. after

"It's

five

now, and

o'clock

think of going down to said Levi, quite as much

when he had reached

"We

must put

like, I will

you

and see

off

no use to

disappointed as any of his

party

it's

Thatcher's Island to-night,"

till

this

prudent conclusion.

to-morrow afternoon; but

take you round to Mike's Point,

can find Bessie."

course live boys and girls could not decline this

invitation, steps,

and The Starry Flag

and ran out of the dock.

cast

When

off

from the

she had passed

the breakwater, Levi saw the Griffin, standing off to the north-east; and

was going Bessie

board

though he wondered where she

in that direction,

he did not suspect that

Watson was an involuntary passenger on of her.

Levi

ran

the boat in as near to

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. Knowlton's Beach then

permit,

Back Beach obtained a

the

rounded

full

came

till

of water

depth

Mike's

209

would

Point,

and

skirted

Old

Pier,

having

view of the shore

for

half a

mile,

without discovering Bessie.

made

where she

can't think fast the

up the

four o'clock to-morrow,

ly landed, for

said "

painter to the pier.

trip for to-day;

With blank

is,"

but

you

will

Levi;

will all

and he

must give be here

go then."

faces the disappointed party reluctant it

was only a

partial

compensation to

know

that the excursion would take place the

day.

Levi, after locking

though

the trip had been

up the cuddy, in which the

materials for the feast had been placed, landed self; for,

was of no consequence, now

him that

postponed, where Bessie was, he

was curious to know what had become of

her.

tended by his party, he went up to Mr. Babson's.

Watson was very much

Mrs.

surprised to learn that

Levi had not seen her daughter,

home

who had

since she left to take the excursion.

not been

Levi and

his

companions volunteered to continue the search

for

Bessie,

her mother

18*

appeared to be anxious

THE STABKY FLAG, OB

210

about her, though no one suspected that any harm

had befallen

her.

when Mr. Watson returned from

seven o'clock,

had not

Bessie

Boston,

been

had given place to alarm

to the girls

houses,

and boys, but the constables and

and examining the

places

searching

she was

was feared that she had

her in

lifeless

the

rocky

not fallen

and

cliff,

form would

water,

nine

o'clock

assured the

investigation

some

inquiring

the

mangled

the

way most

agonized father the

town.

the water, or

into

was believed

be found,

left

all

of the out of the

all

town.

and mother that

over

search was no longer

men and women were

available

anxiety

mind of her fond

in the

The

and devoted mother.

and

found,

that

found at

all,

some jagged

beneath

steep.

The people of

the

to those in sorrow

pathy grief

town

and

suffering

for Bessie's father

seemed to be

full

warm-hearted and tender

were

full

sym

and mother, whose cup of to the brim,

and everything

was done which the power of man could accomplish to find the lost one.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

211

The meeting between Dock Vincent and

Bessie

bad taken place on the extremity of Mike's Point, behind the rocks, where no one on the shore side could

see

them;

and no person appeared to have

noticed the maiden in the boat as her captor con

veyed her to the

At and

Griffin.

nine o'clock in the evening, after the village its

surroundings had been thoroughly searched,

Levi went

down

Old

Pier,

where

his

boat

lay,

intending to run along the shore in her, with a faint

hope of obtaining some tidings of the

lost one.

"Gracious!" exclaimed Levi, as he stepped upon the half deck of the Flag.

This ejaculation was called forth by the thought

which suddenly flashed upon him that he had seen the Griffin go to sea about the time Bessie so strange ly disappeared.

to gather

Levi sat

down

hi the standing

room

down

with

his ideas.

"That's so!" said he, bringing his

fist

tremendous energy upon the half deck. life

this

did he

" I'll bet

some of Dock Vincent's doings!

mean by

help him about?

the

little

plan he wanted

That's what's the matter!"

my What

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

212

Suddenly the young skipper jumped up he had been

them, and shoved off from the still

out of the dock, he headed the

north-east,

and

departed,

extraordinary

the

recalled

Dock had

been

the

of Bessie

meant

that he

desperate

;

of the

about his

from the be

intended to extort a large sum of father

for

that

all

ginning that the unprincipled skipper fin

helm

said

satisfied

had

Griffin

circumstances

He had

plan."

which the

of the

occasion.

Running

Starry Flag to the

himself at

seated

could remember of what "little

The

direction in

consideration

further

The wind was

pier.

and blowing a six-knot breeze.

west,

though

harpooned, cast loose his sails, hoisted

of the

Grif

money from

but he had never suspected

scheme

the

resorting

abduction of

such

the

little

maiden. "I'll

find

him

him too!"

to the

end of the earth; and

said Levi, out

The

loud, as

I'll

Starry

Flag dashed along on her course through the gloom of the night. in I'd

buying

" I wish I

had spent some of

revolver, for I shall

shoot him, after

this, just

want

my money now; and

quick as I would a

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. dead cat!

what fool,

wonder where

know

I'd like to

then the fools are

all

That's

he's

gone

to.

now.

Dock

dead.

spend some of his

stretched,

just

He'll get

isn't

neck

his

a cage

life

213

for

this job."

There were a compass and a lantern on board of

The

Starry Flag, the former having been

by Mr. Hatch,

with the at

compass

under the to

coast that he

tiller,

see

its

to enable

on the seat

and lighted the lantern to enable face.

But where had Dock Vincent gone with This was

prisoner? Levi.

did not need the

but he placed

present;

her

while the

He was

read in the cuddy after dark.

familiar

him

fog,

had been procured that day by Levi,

latter

him

be used in case of

left in

the

was impossible

all-important to answer

it.

his

fair

question to

The

villain

hed been stupid enough to mention that he had a "

plan," but he

little

what

that to

The

was.

was

all

had not been

Griffin

the

fool

enough to

tell

had gone to the north-east

adventurous young skipper had

guide him, and for several hours he stood on in

that direction.

THH STARRY FLAG, OB

214

Levi was not proficient in the science of naviga tion,

but he had some valuable information on the

He made

subject, entirely practical in its character.

the proper allowance pass,

for

the variation

of the

com

which he had learned from the skipper of a

fisherman.

The

Griffin

was an old stunt-bowed

make more than

that could not

craft,

four knots in a seven-

knot breeze, and Levi was confident that the Flag, small

If he

she was comparatively, would outsail her.

could only get on the right course, he was

pretty sure that he could overtake her.

When

well off the land, the skipper of the Flag

supped on cold ham, cakes, and lemonade. satisfied

that he

had

was determined to put four

He was

undertaken a big job; but he it

through.

The

Griflin

had

hours the start of him, but the sail-boat was

new and

clean,

and the chances were

About two hours out from ran close to

large

land,

in her favor.

The Starry Flag

schooner laden with lumber.

Levi hailed her, and was informed by the

man

the helm that she had passed close to an old vessel

with a great square patch in her dusk.

foresail, just

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "That's

the

exclaimed

Griffin!"

skipper

of the

and

night long he stood on

all

Flag,

filled

his

the

215

delighted

away

again;

course to the

north-east.

The next morning, not only Levi and The Starry Flag were

Bessie Watson, but missing.

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

216

CHAPTER

XIX.

DOCK VINCENT'S LETTER. watch was a beautiful

BESSIE'S given to it

her by her father.

very highly both as a

gift

hardly thought of her loss coolly It

put

much

gold one,

Though

she valued

own

for its

sake, she

when Dock Vincent very

and chain

the watch

was worth

and

little

The

into

his

pocket.

Starry Flag had cost,

but no earthly goods seemed to have any value at to

all

her then.

could think

of,

see her father

The was

evil

laid

terrible situation

was

all

she

and she feared she should never again and mother.

man was

afraid of

like the

Her

him; and

his ugly eye looked to

She was

eye of a demon.

truth; he was

She

a constant terror to her.

all

that

love,

gross,

and

her

purity,

vile,

and

wicked.

"You

will

put

me on

shore,

Mr. Dock

won't

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE not ask you for

I will

you ?

watch

AXIS.

21*3

you

will,"

said Bessie. "

You

needn't be at

alarmed, Miss Bessie

all

;

won't hurt a hair of your head, nor let any one else

You

so.

your

are just as safe here as

father's house,

though

comfortable a place,"

have

felt

some remorse

I suppose

replied

have you done

Won't you

please to inform

me what you

tell

"Perhaps you

we won't "

and pain he had

girl.

this for,

you sailing away with

are

isn't quite

Dock, who might

at the grief

caused in the heart of the poor

"What

you would be

me ?

Mr. Dock? from

Perhaps,

Why

parents?

will

you

want, I can help you to get

can,"

replied

it."

"but

Dock, musing;

talk about that to-night."

Won't you

tell

me where you

are going ?

plead

ed Bessie. "I

hardly

frightened,

you.

know

for,

There

you can have

but don't go to -being

myself;

I tell

you

again,

one of those

is all

to yourself.

and lock yourself supper."

in.

no one

little

shall

hurt

state-rooms that

You may go

in there,

But you haven't had

any

THB STARRY FLAG, OB

218

"O,

want any supper.

I don't

me, Mr. Dock, what you mean to do with me,

tell

that

all

I will ask."

"I guess we won't send a

If you will only

man down

talk about that to-night.

some supper

to get

and

will talk over all these things to-morrow."

Bessie could not induce the evil his

I'll

for you,

But

despair.

not

she

felt

and

to her,

plans

his

she

man

gave up the point

solemn assurance that she should

harmed was some comfort that

to disclose

she

not

could

trust

though

her,

him.

his

rude manner he had attempted to be kind to her.

He was

not a pirate, nor a freebooter, for his lan

guage was as respectful

would allow him to

gloom

of the

dirty

his

use.

She

cabin,

natural sat

think

coarseness

down

of the

and anxiety which awaited her parents when L

should

absence

discovered.

She

thought

the grief

her her

mother might suppose she had gone to Thatcher's Island in

missed cluded

till

The Starry

Flag, and she might not be

a late hour in

that Levi

the evening.

She con

had made the excursion without

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN.

219

he would not wish to disappoint the

her, for

rest

of the party.

She wept when she thought of her mother

who seemed

fond and devoted one

She

her.

would

think

drowned,

for

she had

been

one

could

carried

off

him who had saved her Poor Bessie was could be, and

the

sad and

was

suspect

that

man

evil

life.

miserable

Dock Vincent went on

deck,

trial.

and presently one

two men who formed the crew of the

of the

came down

into the cabin,

galley, or

she

gloomy night before her

looked like an age of sorrow and

little

only for

daughter

possibly

father's

long,

to live

her

that

the

and made a

fire

Griffin

the

cooking stove, which was fastened to

the floor in one corner of the dingy den.

"Can you

tell

me where we

are

going?" asked

Bessie of this man.

can't,

replied

the

miss; I don't sailor.

know anything about wash

hands

it,"

this

business."

"Don't you know what Mr. Dock with

me?"

going to do

THE STARRY FLAG, OK

220 " I

have no

idee, miss

You

to hurt you.

I'll

"My

wonder

and

if you'll

this point."

Bessie.

they was ; but I don't see

can do anything about

ain't hurt,

his business;

be terribly alarmed

will

come home," sighed

I don't

going

he shan't do you no

agreed on

and mother

father

" I shouldn't as

ain't

have to mind the

sailors

say this to you, miss:

Barnes and

hurt.

when

but he says he

and we don't know nothin about

cap'n,

but

see,

;

keep

We'll see that you

it.

still,

we'll find out

what

can be done for you."

"Thank "Don't

you," sobbed Bessie. cry, miss;

may

shall

be able to do

something for you before morning."

"O,

you will!"

"We'll keep a lookout and can you eat for your supper ? but

I'll

do the best I can

erel for you, or

"I don't wish

see.

Now,

miss,

what

We haven't got much,

for you.

I'll

brile

mack

give you some tea and toast." for anything," replied Bessie.

But Dove, the man who did the cooking, spoke BO kindly finally

her,

and pressed her so hard, that she

consented to take some tea and toast, which

THE YOTJNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. he prepared to

rather

With much

her.

for

Dove than

please

221

and

difficulty,

she

herself

partook,

though very sparingly, of the food, and then went her state-room, locking the door behind her.

his

men

but nothing was

said

Dock and

went

took their suppers by turns ;

they

Dove and Barnes made an em

deck,

crime which

phatic protest against the high

Vincent was

When

about Bessie.

committing, and

Dock

they had

which

been compelled to take a part.

"Dove, you never saw a thousand your

life,"

anything

dollars

apiece

Yes

;

and

ask

keep

your

days more,

all

they regarded

of you to do

it.

places or,

give you the

will

The men were tempted by as

either

thousand

but I will give you a

;

or four I

don't

or say

three

the unprincipled skipper; "nor you

said

neither, Barnes.

for

dollars

may vessel

the vessel

be,

a week.

besides."

this magnificent

Dock then

oifer,

assured them that

Bessie should be treated like a lady, and not a hair

of her head harmed, and that she should be restored to her parents within three or four days.

to let

him know

their decision in the

19*

They agreed morning; and

THE

222

Dock went down

8 TABBY

FLAG, OB

into the cabin again.

Taking the *

down from the beam on which

lantern

upon the table.

placed

a pen, and for

hung, he

Procuring a bottle of ink,

some paper from

his state-room,

he wrote

about two hours; and then, after going on deck,

he turned

in.

Perhaps Bessie slept a

she could not

little

whether she had or not; but

in the morning,

the most unhappy night she had ever known. times, at least, she

that

parents

taken so

In the

down

much

and some black

forenoon

Dock came

the table, and read

He was

of the "little plan."

for her

coffee for her break-

him, he had

into the

state-room,

still

sat

busy with the de

When

which was

cabin,

what he had written

he had read the

sheet before him, he glanced at the

called

Twenty

and

pains to suit her.

night before.

sie's

was

Dove gave her

of which she partook to please

fast,

tell,

she might be saved from harm, and

broiled mackerel

tails

for herself

they might be comforted.

that

the

had prayed

still

door of Bes

closed.

Then he

her name, and she came out.

"Do you want me?"

asked she.

"I hope you

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. are

ready to

me what you

tell

are

223

going to do

with me."

"I am ready.

Your

father

a very rich man, I

suppose," replied Dock.

"I suppose he

"He

most

lars,

"I'm

added Bessie.

is,"

worth two or three hundred thousand dol likely."

sure I don't know."

"Well, I know he

man worth I

know

is,"

"For a

continued Dock.

much money, he

the meanest

man

of."

father!" exclaimed Bessie, surprised and in*

"My dignant.

"He his

hundred-dollar

sure he will

satisfied.

money every

"He

give you more

saving

you are

much

judiciously, then," said

Dock,

away ever

year."

ought to have given

ten thousand dollars after I pulled

if I

for

father gives

doesn't give

with a sneer.

water.

bill

That was mean."

life.

"I not

gave

What good would

hadn't saved his

life."

his

at least

him out of the

money have done him

THE STARRY FLAG, OK

224

"My

father

not think he was in any danger

did

himself; he told

so that

day

in the train."

"That's neither here nor there.

didn't

a man, and I'm going to bleed

him now.

suppose he won't think twenty thousand

pony

dollars

a big price to pay for you."

For me

know what you mean," an

don't

swered the bewildered Bessie.

"Read

this

letter,

said

then,"

Dock,

throwing

the sheet to her. Bessie did read filled

it.

her father,

letter to

with bad spelling, and horrible grammar.

formed Mr. Watson that of the

was a

Griffin, off

returned

It in

daughter was on board

his

the coast of Maine, and could only

her

parents

when he

had

paid

the writer twenty thousand dollars for himself, and

two

thousand

say that to

set

would in

his

Dock went on

men.

did not intend to

catch sink

for

him.

If he

was

the vessel, with

fall

into

arrested,

Bessie

the deepest water they could find.

then

detailed

the

method

any trap his

the

The

which the

men cubin, villain

money

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

225

could be paid over to him, without imperilling the

Mr. Watson was directed to

of his daughter.

life

enclose the

amount demanded

dressed

Me.," and put

reached

age

threat

" If

again

Dock ?

would

sink

you

would.

see

ominous

or to have

your

the

If your

much consequence;

this

foul,

daughter

vessel,

father will

will,"

father

you to give what

about

enough

"My

with

Mr.

asked Bessie.

"Certainly, I

never

will

pack should

world."

this

"But

concluded

you attempt to play

you

Bangor,

the

Bangor on Sat

hotel in

principal

letter

arrested,

on Friday, Bessie

the writer

The

urday.

Vincent,

the post-office.

to the

sent

Waldock

Captain

an envelope, ad

said

that's

give

Bessie,

don't care

ask,

you

ain't

all.'*

you

money, I know

the

trembling with terror at the

awful threat of the evil man. " I

thing the

should along,

say I

end of the

that he would

want you letter.

;

but to help the

write

You

can

a few lines at

advise

him

226

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

take up with

the money, and no*

send

offer,

mention the matter to any constables." I will, Mr. Dock."

"You

you bad

don't think I've treated

since

you

do you?"

came aboard

"No, Mr. Dock." " It wouldn't do any

harm

might make your father Bessie letter,

much

to say as

about

better

feel

wrote half a page at the end of Dock's

appealing to her father

The

treated her very well. directed to Mr. Watson,

About the

accept the

middle

post

office.

again,

came

and to

and

return,

after

anchor

running in

his

put

bottom

the

across

the

filled

away

Penobscot

Bay,

inlet

lonely

little

and steady

letter

the vessel

The anchor had hardly hooked the

fresh

Grif

the

afternoon,

of Rockland, in Maine.

ashore, his

had

off,

Rockport.

of the

breeze, put into the harbor

went

offer.

was sealed and

letter

having been favored with

Dock

it."

She added that Dock, except carrying her

fin,

;

Deer

into the

bay, before

Isle.

rocks at

Dock's

at-

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. tention

was

attracted

by a

sail

headed

227

towards

him.

"It seems to

the evil man, as the "I

I've seen that boat before," said sail

reckon you have. "

Starry Flag !

approached.

sure as

replied Barnes.

you

live it's

Th/

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

228

CHAPTER XX. THE CEUISE OP THE STAKKY FLAG. and es

sober, staid, steady skippers,

PERHAPS pecially prudent, crazy

when he

darkness

into

ocean, cutting salt

sailed

non-seafaring

out in

the

loose from the

land,

water was his native element.

venture;

but

was

desperate

the

of as It

the

justify

great

though the

must be ac

was

and daring fellow might

not a perfect success, at the

hazard

circumstances as those

young fisherman

and

bold and even reckless

skilful

not reasonably expect,

enough

was

was not a hopeless one;

not one in which a

per

Fairfield

night

solemn solitudes

the

knowledged that

least

plodding,

would have believed that Levi

sons,

commenced

his

under

such

under which

the

voyage.

Levi did a great deal of thinking and reasoning, balanced

great

many

probabilities,

and

finally

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. reached

conclusion which

satisfied

the

end

his

purpose.

After

all

Vincent had darkly hinted about his

Flag

assured

that

had

persevere that

Dock

"little plan,"

the marine philosopher at the helm of

was

and

himself,

gave him the nerve and the courage to to

229

The

Starry

abducted

Bessie

Watson, intending to extort a large sum of money from the father for her first

gafe

return.

This was the

point settled.

Levi knew that Dock Vincent had formerly been the captain of a coaster plying between ports on the

Penobscot and the

The

cities

had gone

Griffin

of Boston and

New

York.

headed to the north-east,

off

and the information he had obtained from the helms

man

of the lumber vessel indicated that she was

sailing in that direction.

make

Dock would not be

still

likely

a port near the Cape, to which the excite

ment attending the absence of Bessie might extend. It

was

more probable

some more

distant

coast at the

him

that

harbor.

he would

proceed

His knowledge

of the

mouth of the Penobscot would induce there.

settled.

This

was

the

second

point

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

230

The

was

Griffin

was

that

The

" old

of sixty

vessel

and though she

tub,"

was

Levi

tons,

Starry Flag would

confident

her in an or

outsail

dinary sea, with anything less than a gale

of wind

Though she was a new boat, she had al ready made a reputation as a fast sailer, having blowing.

run

actually

which

utes,

her

fifteen

under

very remarkable

and

size,

make

knowing what he was

The

Griffin

could

she

be,

seven

calculations

see the

old

while

schooner

start

the

Griffin

five.

the

of Maine

;

but even

"ship

land

news"

some

to guide him.

not

and

the

he did not see

her,

could

Levi expected

made

he was determined to continue on he

without

of him, but

morning,

be well up with her by the time coast

Levi,

The Flag was

of him.

be making more than four or to

accomplished

wind had blown, more

the

knots,

a boat

circumstances.

his

min

about.

than twenty miles ahead

making

was

had four hours the

not

for

sailing

favorable

not

did

therefore,

of course

most

the

miles in an hour and ten

place,

she

his

and

course, for

obtain

the

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. Before daybreak the skipper of

how

could not help thinking

Starry Flag

comfortable

would

he could turn in and sleep a few hours,

gaped

and

fearfully,

took

which had the

times,

boat went billows,

along

the

lemonade, and walked standing

effect to

room

wake him

pace over the great

lively

few

The

up.

dry and comfortable as a lady's

spray broke

little

some

down

and

for

eyes were heavy; but he

his

drank

lunch,

briskly

The

231

half deck

the

parlor.

times,

but not a drop soiled the Sunday clothes of Levi;

for

of the Island. sails

had

himself in his best in honor

dressed

party

was

The wind was

hardly needed

any

convey

abaft

Thatcher's

the beam, and

attention.

He had

the only

watch the compass, and keep the boat headed

north-east

which he had heard was the

north,

proper point for a vessel bound to Penobscot Bay.

daylight,

The

on the vast ocean.

and no other

sail

awake now, and

Starry Flag seemed to be alone

She was out of sight of

was to be

seen.

was no longer

keep his eyes open.

was

land,

Levi was wide

difficult

for

him

grand, sublime, the

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

232

waste of waters around him rolling and beating the

of the Infinite.

pulse

coarse

upon which a

nature,

prospect

and by the

it,

miles

fore.

that

he was at

least

thought of

Him who

the

shore.

out

this

desert

prayer was

The

with

childish

of waters, and

and

real

these

than

earnest

matin

ever be

reflections,

lofty

moved him

fear

his

fifty

which he was engaged was

mission in

harmony

sublime

fact

from

spread

rude,

He was moved, awed

could produce no impression.

was not a

Levi's

look

and

back from

no the

purpose to which he had nobly devoted himself.

The sun

rose bright and beautiful from his ocean

bed, and Levi

was almost inspired by the grandeur

of the scene, rendered ten times

more sublime by

the circumstances of his situation.

warm later

the wind hauled

northward, and that the sail.

The

little

at a

considerably, but not so

freshened

main

was disappointed, but not discouraged,

nothing

captain,

bright,

more to the

Flag could not carry her jib and

Levi

because

the

down upon him

rays of the sun poured hour,

was

crew, and

all

seen

of the

Griffin.

hands, piped to break

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. fast,

when The

boat.

with

cold

sun

the

lockers

had

dried

were

still

the

decks

plentifully

ham, bread, cheese, and

233

cake,

of the supplied

and

the

meal was sumptuous.

While Levi was thus engaged, he caught a distant it

so distant that he could hardly

sail

out.

was

off

finished his breakfast,

spy-glass,

Gayles, to

which he had

enable Bessie

The

sails in sight.

young skipper watched her with deep

cuddy a

make

weather beam, hull down,

his

with only the upper part of her

when he had

sight of

interest;

and

he took from the

borrowed of Mr.

look at distant objects,

during the trip to Thatcher's Island, and carefully

examined the stranger.

him were

make her

in sight to

But she was too

out.

this

far

off for

time two schooners

leeward of him, but both of them

were bound to the southward.

As Levi watched

the distant

sail

till

became

evident to him that she was going to the northward,

he altered his course so as to approach near enough to her in a short time to tolerably confident,

after

tion, that this vessel

20*

make her

out.

He was

he had studied the situa

was the

Griffin,

and he began

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

234

to be

somewhat excited

later,

he discerned through the spy-glass the great

square patch on the

at the prospect.

foresail,

Dock had kept

confirmed.

westward than Levi, who have passed the

Griffin,

Levi decided that to exhibit

and

was

few hours more would

left

her behind him.

would not be prudent

The Starry Flag

fully

a point nearer to the

in a

and

his belief

hour

for

Dock Vincent;

him

so he

just barely kept the Griffin's sails in sight, keeping

and a

abreast,

land

little

ahead of her,

the middle of the

fisherman was

He was

about his dinner attention.

till

his

The young

to a tremendous pitch

so excited that he forgot

all

abused stomach clamored

for

For three hours the

Bay surrounded

he sighted the

afternoon.

now worked up

of enthusiasm.

till

islands of Penobscot

him, and Levi was compelled to get

nearer to the chase.

The

Griffin

ran into

Rockland harbor,

while

Dock and Barnes went

Levi

had

to wait

till

prudently kept

ashore

lying to

the

a distance, intending

the vessel anchored, and then to board

her after dark, with the assistance of some to

boat.

be obtained in the town.

officers

ran into the bay

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. as far as

When

time in the harbor.

narrated

remained only a short

in the last chapter, the Griffin

down

we have

Jameson's Point; but, as

235

Levi saw her coming

the bay, he stood off and sheltered his boat

from the observation of those on board the schooner

by running her behind Owl's Head passed,

when

followed

her

she had

until

again,

safe

distance.

the chase was

now headed

to the north-east,

Levi was sure that she intended to make harbor.

anchor in the lonely bay at Deer fin

swung round

harbor which

house in

at her moorings,

Dock had

Levi surveyed the

and the pursuer knew nothing what

sight,

As he saw

and that the skipper of the

Levi did not

know

the

name of

Dock had landed; he could only place.

conspirator

But he had

gone

none,

no inhabitants near Griffin

anchorage with reference to this

large

the Grif

There was not a

chosen.

he concluded there were

his

Isle.

ever of the geography of the place.

place,

another

was nearly sundown when she came to

rightly

ashore

the

had chosen

fact.

the town at which see that

conjectured there

was a

that the

make

his

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

236

demand

upon

Mr.

Watson

the

post

by the

situ

through

office.

The bold young ation,

and was

skipper was troubled

what

at a loss

to do.

could not

hope to obtain any help from the shore, and he waa hardly able to do battle with the three

deck of the

Griffin.

men on

could not anchor outside of

was so deep, and he was

the bay, the water

the

afraid

the Griffin might change her position in the night if

As he

he remained out of sight of her.

and

felt

that the chances were

became desperate, and under

now

this

reflected,

against him, he

he stood

impulse

boldly into the lonely bay, direct for the chase.

Without showing of

Dock Vincent, he

the schooner, and shrouds.

of the

With little

deck of the

his face, or

ran

made

The

fast

answering the

Starry Flag alongside

her painter to

the short, heavily-ironed

craft

hail

in his hand,

the fore

boat-hook

he leaped upon the

Griffin.

"Is that you, Levi?" demanded Dock, almost par alyzed

by the appearance of the youth

opportune tune.

at this

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

Til his

bet

it's

Levi, nearly choked

deep emotion.

"How

came you

who seemed "I

me!" answered

237

came

Levi?"

here,

continued

Dock,

disposed to adopt a conciliatory course.

Watson, and I'm going to

Bessie

after

have her too," said Levi, decidedly.

Watson?

"Bessie

She

"O, Mr. Dock!

isn't here."

let

me go

with him," inter

posed Bessie, whose head appeared at the companion-way, as she climbed the steep steps. "

That

lie's

nailed

" !

said

Levi,

moving towards

the villain.

"Go below

again!" added Dock, sternly.

"Don't mind him, Bessie," replied Levi.

"What field ?

are

you going to do about

demanded Dock, roused

Barnes pitch

take care of the

"I washed

fellow

this

to anger "

duct of the young fisherman. into

it,

Levi Fair-

by the con

Here, Dove, you and his

boat,

and

girl."

hands of

this

business in the be

ginning, and I won't have anything to do with replied

"Nor

will

Dove. I neither,"

added Barnes.

it,"

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

288

"Cowards!" sneered Dock,

he rushed towards

Levi.

At her

this

moment

movement

sprang to the deck, and

Bessie

attracted the attention of Dock, who,

fearful that his prize

would

escape, turned with the

intention of driving her back into the cabin.

"Let her alone!" shouted Levi, lowed Dock

angrily, as

up to the companion-way, and

fol

seized

him by the arm to prevent him from pushing Bessie

down

the ladder.

Dock turned upon him lay his raised

brought

and attempted to

heavy hand upon him; but Levi suddenly the it

of the evil deck.

again,

iron-shod

end

of the

down with such

man

that he

force

sank

boat-hook,

upon the

senseless

and head

upon the

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER

239

XXI.

THE STABKT FLAG COMES TO ANCHOR. have

WHAT

Bessie,

you filled

as,

done,

Levi

exclaimed

with fear and horror, she

saw the form of Dock Vincent drop heavily upon the deck of the Griffin. " I

know.

don't

I've

done

duty,

hope,"

replied Levi, puffing under the excitement and the

exertion of the

moment.

him, but I can't help "

O, I hope not

this

time

" !

it if

" I

hope

I haven't killed

I have."

added Bessie.

Barnes and Dove, the two seamen

of the Griffin, had

come

aft,

and they commenced

an examination into the condition of Dock.

"You "

but he

hit

isn't

come out of "

Then

him a hard knock, Levi,"

I'll

dead.

said

Dove,

He's only stunded, and

he'll

pretty soon."

be going, for I don't want to have any

THE STARRY FLAG.

trouble with

things, "

him.

Ott

Come,

Bessie,

get

youi

and come with me."

won't die

will,

the

stout

with a shudder, at

asked she, glancing,

frame of Dock, ex

tended on the deck. " Bless

you, Miss

Bessie, he

ever in an hour or

will

be as well as

"You

answered Dove.

two,"

needn't consarn yourself about him." "

I'm very glad

it's

Come, Bessie

have you anything with you

;

Nothing but

Where you

shawl "

into the cabin for

no worse."

;

goin, Levi ?

asked Dove.

skipper, prudently.

See here, Levi

Well, I don't

if it

down

you won't know," replied the

;

you don't think Barnes and

had anything to do with "

it.

" If I don't tell you,

young

and she went

had been

found her

"You

know

way back

that

case, the

his

you did

do you?" ;

old Griffin

Rockport before

don't understand

with an anxious look.

ways has

this thing

it,

Levi,"

Captain

but I think,

would have this time."

added

Barnes,

Dock Vincent

own way, you know."

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. " So he does, just

when he can

answered

now,"

insensible form.

and do something "

you

Why

think

down

looking

the

you take care of him,

don't

him?"

for

are goin to

but he didn't have

;

Levi,

241

but I want to

;

Dove and

know whether

me was mixed up

this

business." "I

know anything

don't

have

you might

mind

prevented

it,

but I think

;

you had been a

to."

" 'Tain't

and we don't want you to go to

;

blamin us for what

have

didn't

We're hands aboard

with.

about

do just what the cap'n

nothin

this vessel,

tells

and we have

You know

us to do.

that just as well as I do." " I

haven't

believe

anything

say about

you would have done

yourself, either

"But you

such a

it.

don't

mean thing

one of you," added Levi, evasively.

ain't a

goin to

tell

the folks

Rockport that we helped Cap'n Dock do be you?" continued little

excited at

this thing

Barnes, beginning to be a

the prospective loss of reputation

which such a report would involve. 21

down

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

242 "

them

tell

I'll

what you say

just

hadn't anything to do with the

affair,

that

you

and that you

only obeyed your captain." "

Well, I'm

handed Bessie Cap'n Dock

and

"We

Starry Flag.

told

wouldn't have anything to do with off."

Yes, he really did

me,

The

carryin the gal "

with that," said Dove, as Levi

satisfied

told

;

and Mr. Dove was very kind he and the other man

that

Mr. Dock hurt me," interposed Bessie,

wouldn't

let

who was

disposed to put a very charitable construc

tion

upon the

two seamen, consented standing

action,

know

she did not

for

and upon the

receive

by the

inaction, of the

they had

that

a thousand dollars apiece for

vessel

the

till

"little

plan" was

fully executed.

Levi,

might

fearful

attempt

express his

under

that to

mind

-different

the

two men,

prevent as fully

his

circumstances.

self-defence,

departure, did

he would

not

have done

followed

Bessie

into the boat, and hoisted the mainsail. "I say, Levi, to

Rockport

you don't think of taking the

in that boat

do you

girl

back

asked Barnes.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

248

" I should feel safer in her than I should in your old Griffin," replied the

"It's rather resky to

young

skipper.

hundred and

off a

fifty

miles in an open boat like that," added the seaman. " I

don't think so," answered Levi, as he shoved "

off.

Why

don't

you go and see to your captain

now ? " "Dove

lookin

out

him.

for

Well, good by,

when you get back

Levi; but don't be hard on us to Rockport." tell

the

folks just

may judge

for

themselves.

"I'll

began

Flag

Starry

what you

say,

and they

Good by;" and The headway, and

gather

bear

them away from the schooner. Levi ran up the

jib,

trimmed the

sails,

and seated

himself at the helm. "

" exclaimed Bessie, as the O, I'm so happy, Levi !

Flag dashed out of the lonely bay.

how much vessel

'"I "

have suffered since I

You

can't tell

went on that

" !

know you must have had

And you

Rockport ?

have followed

a very bad time." all

the

way from

THE STARKY FLAG, OK

244 "

Yes

I sailed all

;

lowing the

last

all

to-day, fol

thought Dock would run into

Griffin.

night and

some place where there were people, and

some

to get " I

help,

And

have happened

my "

and get you away from him."

owe you ever

have done

father send

you hadn't come

you

know what would as

Did

did.

you

know where

;

for after I

head that Dock was carrying

dare to go back to Rockport, for

didn't

what you

for

does not even

off,

much, Levi,

I'm sure I don't

got the idea into

you

intended

fear I shouldn't overtake the Griffin."

Levi told Bessie

everything

that

had

happened

from the time he went to Old Pier to take

his party

on board up to the moment when he had boarded the

poor

girl

father ing,

with

Griffin

wept

boat-hook

the

when

bitterly

and mother had

his

The

hand.

she thought what her

suffered,

and were

still

on account of her unexplained absence.

suffer

When

Levi assured her they would soon be in Rockport, her eyes, and told her brave companion

she

dried

the

history

board

the

of her Griffin.

abduction, and

the

time

of her these

stay

interesting

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. were finished

stories

was

dark,

quite

proposed that they should have some his

lighted

lantern,

Under

of tea.

cold

placed

and cake on the

crackers,

stead

and

the

sustained his

satisfaction

supper.

ham, bread,

promises of the

hopeful

of the

and ate

skipper,

" a reputation as

own

and Lev)

with lemonade in

seat,

future, Bessie regained her appetite,

much

24J>

heartily,

who

fully

good feeder

the present occasion. "

Bessie, I don't

know

an open boat.

far in

and

dred

fifty

that

will like to

you

I suppose it

miles across to

hun

nearly a

Rockport, right over

the open sea, and out of sight of land," said Levi, after

he had cleared away the remains of the supper,

and put the boat "

There

Bessie,

in order for her night voyage.

no other way to go

rather

appalled

the

there

prospect

asked

of such

cruise.

Why,

yes

;

can

put you on shore, and you

can go by the railroad or the steamboat to Boston.

There

Griffin

put in there, on her

big

town

here

way

somewhere. up.

The

I haven't got

any map or chart, and I'm sure I don't know where

21*

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

2^6

are

only that

;

on the coast of Maine,

are

and somewhere near the mouth of the Penobscol All

River.

know

that

is,

south-west to bring

me back

get a sight of the

land

know where we

shall

"But

are

you

must

stand

When

to Rockport.

over

about I

on the other

side, I

go right out to

sea, in

are."

not afraid to

an open boat?" asked Bessie.

"Not

a bit of

it.

feel

shall

just as safe as

should on shore," replied Levi. "

Well,

with

she,

you

are not afraid, I'm "

emphasis.

You

say

near the

mouth of the Penobscot

been

Rockland

When we

and

returned home,

not,

Levi," said

are

somewhere

River.

Thomaston

we went

with

have father.

to Portland hi a

steamboat, and then to Boston by railroad." " I suppose

night, for

are too late

know

for

those that go to Boston pass the

Cape about two or three o'clock "

any steamers to

in the morning."

But we don't know when anything

starts,"

added

Bessie.

don't

we put

know

that I could find the

town where

in this afternoon, but I think I could.

If I

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. landed you there to-night, I don't see

247

how you

could

get to Boston before to-morrow night." "

But the

train

Beverly, and

would

from Portland

we would

take

leave

the cars there for

Rockport." "

Perhaps the train you would go on would not

connect with one for Rockport." "

Dear me

I'm sure I don't know what to do."

"If the wind holds good, I expect to be port to-morrow afternoon there on Thursday at the

for

;

Rock-

you know I must be

trial."

"I thought you would go with me by the steam boat or the railroad," said Bessie.

couldn't leave

boat."

"I wouldn't go without

you,

Levi,"

added

she,

decidedly.

"I must take

"Then "It

I shall

boat home."

go with you."

may come on

to blow," suggested the prudent

skipper.

"But "

will

The boat

be as

safe for

safe as long as she

and I don't think there

it is is

for you."

well handled

;

a bit of danger at this

THE STARRY FLAG, OE

248 season

there

fall

want

shouldn't

year.

the

afraid to

tfit>

or winter, though

then

;

but

across

shouldn't

wouldn't be comfortable.

would be too cold and wet." " I shall

go with you, Levi, any way."

"I can make you up

a nice

and you can sleep

there,

delighted witli the spirit " I

think

believe

hardly closed

what are you going

all

fair

added

eyes

to do, Levi ?

to-night, for I

last

night.

O, I must keep awake and steer the boat."

But you I

will sleep

up.

But I'm

"Well,

make

die out,"

But

didn't sleep

Levi,

companion.

anywhere

in the cabin

night,"

of his

could sleep

bed

little

last night."

any

enough when afraid the

home

I get

wind

going to

added Levi, who had been fearing

this for

the last hour, for the breeze had subsided almost to a calm. "

What

long

will

gape,

you do then

which

suggested

said

that

Bessie,

with a

was bedtime

for her.

"Wait

till

the breeze comes.

Let

me make

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. your bed for you now, and you can

sure

you are very

lie

down,

Z49 for J

sleepy."

" I am, indeed."

were no longer needed

Levi's services, unfortunately, at the helm, for the

the mainsail

entirely subsided,

his

and Bessie lay down upon

;

idly from the gaff.

bed the material

the best

permit

hung

wind had

and

arranged

command would it,

after she

had

reverently repeated her prayers, to which Levi listened in the

He drew

of devotion.

true spirit

the slide

over the companion-way, and partly closed the doors, so that she

would not be suffocated by the closeness

of the cuddy.

The Starry Flag appeared the water, for there

motionless on

rest

was not a breath of

skipper was annoyed and impatient.

air.

Her

He wanted

be dashing over the waves towards Rockport, with the message of gladness to the distracted parents of his fair passenger

;

and

was

intensely provoking to

have the wind die cut at such a time. this,

he found that the tide was coming

the Flag

;

was

drifting

up the bay.

Worse than in,

and that

This would not

he was going ahead backwards, drifting upon ax

THE STARRY FLAG, OK

250 island

to the northward

to let

go the anchor to check

of him.

He was

obliged

this retrograde

ten

dency.

The boat had come there

to a dead

stand;

was nothing better that he could

and

do, he furled

his sails, fastened the lantern to the jib-stay, stretched

himself on one of the seats, and went to sleep.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER

251

XXII.

HOMEWARD BOUND. was about eleven

ITwind

make no

voyage to Cape Ann. should

conspire against

to sea;

night,

when

died out and the tide turned, so that

Starry Flag could

o'clock

for

;

him

the

The

further progress on her it

Undoubtedly

that

the

was best that

elements should so far

as to prevent

him from going

Levi was not in condition to stand

another night at the helm.

The delay

afforded

him

the sleep and the rest he needed so much. It

was

five

o'clock

young skipper waked.

the

morning when

The sun had

shining brightly on the silver

risen,

the

and was

waters, and a gentle

breeze from the westward rippled the surface of the bay.

Levi sprang up with a start: his

was, that

had

he was wasting

slept hours

first

precious time;

thought that he

longer than he should have done.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

252

Without a moment of delay he hoisted the

mainsail,

and was going forward to get up the anchor, when he discovered a island

sail

under whose

second

moving out from behind

the

the boat was moored.

lee

revealed

glance

him the great square

patch on the foresail of the

Dock Vincent had come

that

and assured him

Griffin,

and was

to his senses,

in pursuit of him.

The

noise he

awakened "

Bessie,

Where

Rockport

made

had

and she came out of the cuddy.

are we, Levi ?

Have we got almost

have

been

Griffin,

anchor

O, that's

terrible

old vessel, which

"What

all

night,

Bessie.

and we haven't a moment

to spare," replied Levi, sharply. " "

mainsail

There comes the

boat.

the

hoisting

added

she,

glancing at the

was now within a few rods of the

shall

we do?"

Don't be alarmed, Bessie

;

can keep out of his

way," added Levi, as he unbent the cable and threw the

rope

precious

overboard,

for

could

not

moments which would be required

the anchor.

spare to

the

weigh

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN"

Stop, there, Levi Fail-field

cent,

from the helm of the

shouted

253

Dock Vin

Griffin.

" O, Levi gasped Bessie, when she heard the !

tones of her persecutor's voice. "

Don't be frightened, Bessie," interposed the gal

lant

young

skipper,

"He

soothing tones.

shall

not have you again."

Levi hoisted the jib quicker than the jib of The Starry Flag was ever hoisted before. "

Put the helm down, Bessie

just

the bowsprit

long

other

way

;

right;" and the Flag began to gather head

that's

way

the

Dock Vincent, who had gone of the

boat-hook,

was attempting, with a

Griffin,

fasten

out on

the jib-stay

the

sail-boat.

"All intense

right, Bessie," relief, as

said

Levi, with

feeling of

he belayed the

jib-halliard,

was

and

and ran

to the helm.

The

mainsail

came up reach sheets,

drawing,

the

Griffin

into the wind, the Flag passed out of the

of the

evil

trimmed

man.

Levi gathered up his

his head-sail,

and the boat went

jib-

off

on her course to the southward of the island, leaving 22

THE STAKBT FLAG, OB

254

and renew the chase.

the Griffin to wear round

was evident that the schooner had the breeze early hour in the morning,

Levi

and

;

utes more, his

by the

was

Bessie, with

craft

little

in pursuit of five

slept

Not

so frightened in

a long breath.

" I

But he may catch us

lost.

life

" !

exclaimed

was sure that we yet."

he," said Levi, confidently.

You

streak of lightning.

you would be I can't think

The

old Griffin

the parlor of your father's house.

and

was

sleep so long."

suppose you were tired out, as I

was," replied Bessie,

" I

catch a

are as safe now, Bessie, as

what made me

Poor fellow

tector

min

would have been captured

could no more catch us than a snail could

at an

villain.

" I never

were

young skipper had

the

and started

fall

of sympathy for her pro

friend.

but I didn't

tired,

mean

sleep

than a couple of hours."

when

am I

glad

you did

waked

up,

that

sleep,

though

we had been

supposed, sailing

all

night."

Levi

explained

the

situation

so that his fellow-

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. voyager could understand the Griffin

all

had not yet abandoned

Both of them watched

it.

the time, for

was

Dock

plain that

The men

his "little plan."

on board of her were setting a her speed

255

staysail to increase

but Levi did not borrow any trouble on

;

this account.

long as there was any wind at

all,

he was sure that he could show Dock the name on of his boat

the stern

had been

even a

otherwise, and resort

all

fair

day long.

sailer,

If the Griffin

would have been

Levi would have been compelled to

other expedients than

his

heels to

avoid

capture.

The Starry Flag gained on the schooner they were about a quarter of a mile apart

fall

and then

some assurance that she would

Bessie began to feel

not again

;

until

into the

The wind was very

clutches

light,

and

of the neither

evil

craft

man.

was

making more than four knots an hour. " I

don't

Bessie, but I think like to leave the

when he

felt

ask you to be ship's it

steward,

breakfast time, and I don't

helm even

for a minute," said Levi,

sure that, with careful

could keep out of the Griffin's way.

management, he

THE STAKEY FLAG, OR

266 "

Should you

the breakfast.

feet.

may

Well, then, you

It's

supper, and as find

" exclaimed something to do

springing to her

Bessie, "

should

O, I

the same as

just shall

have

bring

out

we had

for

You

will

for dinner.

that locker," continued Levi, pointing to

had

the place where he

the

deposited

ship's

pro

visions.

I'm sure

" If I

it's

good enough."

had thought of having a lady passenger,

might have provided better "

Why,

it's

sure I don't

good

for her."

you have

want anything

yourself,

and I'm

better.""

Levi wished he had a cup of tea or coffee for her,

and still

for himself too, for that

matter

plenty of cold water and

;

but there was

lemonade on board,

and the cake was not half used.

Bessie arranged

the provision on one of the seats as tastefully and neatly as the material would permit, and the captain,

crew, and passengers

all

breakfasted at one table, the

skipper keeping his place at the helm, with an eye

on the

The

Griffin all the time.

relative positions of the

Flag and the schooner

THE YOUNG FISHftRMAN OP CAPE ANN. were

not

Four miles an

during the forenoon.

changed

materially

one as impatient as Levi,

hour, to

was very slow progress, and to make

among

still

he had

this

At noon

the advantage of the ebb tide.

was

257

the boat

the islands of Penobscot Bay, having

made not more than day.

The

tide,

after

unsatisfactory.

thirty

miles during the half

breeze did not increase, and against the it

had

turned,

the

progress

was

stil)

Several schooners were in sight,

bound down the bay, which kept the young voyagers company, and helped to quiet the

who

relied

man

evil

upon these people

for

fears

of Bessie,

help in case the

should attempt to capture her again.

" I think this is rather tiresome, Levi," said Bessie, after

they had been to dinner.

Confounded tiresome " replied the skipper, ear !

nestly.

"Don't you suppose there this before

night

" I can't tell

just as

;

will

be more wind than

but I'm afraid not.

It looks to

though we were going to have

dull,

weather, with Paddy's hurricane to boot." "

hurricane ?

22*

muggy

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

258

" Don't be scared

only Paddy's hurricane," laughed

Levi.

"What's that?"

hurricane that blows up and

down

in other

words, a dead calm."

O, I hope not."

"I hope not; but than I

morrow "

You

must be

afraid of a

calm

Rockport to

forenoon, you know." if

must,

"What if I

of a blow.

am more

you

will

can," said Bessie.

uncle and the rest of

not there

when

the

trial

them think

takes place ?

must be there!" added Levi, anxiously.

"And my poor father and where I am " sighed Bessie.

mother don't know

Then both of them went boat rose

ward

and

all.

fell

thinking,

on the billows, hardly going

But about

four

o'clock

noon the breeze freshened up, and briskly for

two

and the

or three hours.

and looked as happy as a

lord.

in it

for

the after

blew quite

Levi brightened up,

Hie tongue flew

a bobbin as the boat passed the last range of islands,

THE YOUNG FISHEKMAN OF CAPE ANN. and stood out upon the open

merry as a

cricket, for the

sea.

bounding

259

Bessie was little

craft

was

bearing her to the arms of her affectionate

swiftly

parents. " is

She

doing better than I ever saw her do before.

There comes the old

know

her

she has rigged

declare

Griffin,"

said Levi.

gaff-topsails.

didn't

she had any before."

"Will she catch

"No,

think

Levi?"

us,

not,"

replied

the

young skipper;

but he was somewhat anxious on the subject. If the breeze should

heavy

sea,

the

longer than

Griffin

increase

create

might be able to carry

Flag, and

the

thus overhaul her;

sail

but

Levi hoped for the best, and paid close attention to

The

sailing his boat.

and

gaff-topsails

Flag out,

until

and

staysail,

nearly sunset,

left

the

by the

schooner,

aid

of her

kept about even with the

when

the wind again died

boat rolling and pitching uneasily

on the glassy billows. "

Here we are

again," said Levi, impatiently.

have come to a dead

stand-still."

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

260 " I'm

sorry

the dis

Bessie, sharing

replied

appointment of her companion. " I expected

be in sight of land on the other

side before this time," in

are,

sight

didn't land

of land

Well,

as well it

can't

make

some

you

in the steamboat, or

added Levi this

and here we

side.

and

place,

by the

" ;

let

sorry 1

you go home

cars."

be helped now, Levi, and we

the best of

may

who

replied Bessie,

it,"

felt

under the trying circum

her duty to be cheerful

stances. "

course

well

can't

laugh as cry.

Rockport in season "

All

But I'm

for a breeze.

ourselves,

help

afraid

can do I

and we may is

shall

to whistle

not

get

for the trial."

When

Don't you be concerned about that, Levi. father finds out

will

make

all

what you have done

right.

father

for

me, he

knows the gov

he has been to our house in Boston,

ernor,

and

I'm sure he can help you." " I

knew

don't I

have

would run away, and

uncle all

telling

that sort

them he of thing.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. But I

can only get you through

if I

shall

satisfied,

even

right, Bessie,

do have to go to

all

261

prison." "

You

shall

not go to prison,

Levi "

" If

go with you."

Bessie, firmly. "

do, I will

you

That wouldn't do any good. of myself at

think

do the best

will

all,

and

ought not to

won't any more.

can, and I

head any more about the

answered

the

trial,

won't trouble uncle, or

prison, or anything else." "

You

are

good

protect you, whatever happens

not be myself,

sent to

and on

" Hallo

" !

will

but I say you

shall

and

;

go to the governor

knees

shouted

;

I will

prison.

God

Levi

boy,

Levi,

suddenly

springing

his feet.

What his

by "

movements and

Dock Vincent

"What

said

asked Bessie, alarmed

his words.

getting out his boat

" !

for?"

"Why, he us,"

the matter, Levi

Levi,

going to row the jolly-boat over to seizing

the

short

boat-hook

which he had done such good service before.

with

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

262

The see

was

Griffin

those

had swung round, so that Levi could

on board lowering the

suspended

Dock and one of pull

the his

stern

men

which

They saw

davits.

get into

towards The Starry Flag.

Bessie trembled.

jolly-boat,

the

boat, and

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

CHAPTER

263

XXIII.

THE NIGHT AND THE GALE. become of us Levi?" exclaimed

will

WHAT Griffin

saw the

she

Bessie,

approaching The

Starry Flag.

"Don't be frightened,

done

before.

Bessie.

how

of this scrape some

of the

jolly-boat

shall

or other, just

opinion

shall

get out

we have

have a breeze

soon from the southward and westward, and a

little

his

more of

it,

than

won't

we do

can let

you

hit

want," replied Levi ; but

words had hardly any meaning, even to

What

all,

comes to

him with

himself.

take

that

me ?

boat-hook

again."

*He

shall

not take you out of this boat, Bessie,

while

I'm

shake

of the head.

gun."

alive!"

added Levi, with

"I wish I had a

suggestive pistol

or a

THE STARKY FLAG, OR

264 "

You

would you, Levi ? "

wouldn't shoot him

"Just as quick as I would shoot a the

head of a

Still

the jolly-boat of the Griffin continued to ap

The

Starry Flag were as

Levi was anxious, and he

unsatisfactory as before.

could not decide what he should do.

hope successfully to

resist so

Vincent, assisted now,

smash

dog-fish."

proach, and the defences of

gull, or

man

powerful a

might

be,

could not

by one of

Dock

his

men.

almost here, Levi," said Bessie, in terror.

"I know he

is;

and

all

can do

to wait for

him," replied Levi, with a coolness which was wholly

assumed, for he had but ity to

defend his

"What

shall I

"Leave

can.

all

You had

fair

little

confidence in his abil

companion.

do?" repeated

to me, Bessie;

better

she.

I will

do the best

go into the cuddy, and keep

out of sight."

The seated

terrified

went

girl

herself on

the

into

the

little

low berth, to

suspense, the result of Dock's intended " Better

keep

name within

off!

cabin,

wait, in

and

awful

visit.

shouted Levi, as the jolly-boat

hail of the Flag.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

Dock paid no

boat-hook

grasped the iron-shod

termined than

manner,

held

together,

fight

most

the

passenger

and Levi

hail,

resolved

fully

and to

protection;

his

permit

the

attention

265

fight

rather

taken from his

long as the boat-hook

could keep his head above

and he

shoulders.

"Better keep off!" shouted he again.

"I want his

man

to see

you, Levi," said Dock, as

stopped rowing,

within twenty feet of

when

are well

off!

the

young

had

his

Flag.

you know when you

stand no

I won't

skipper, as

the jolly-boat was

The Starry

"Don't come any nearer,

nonsense,"

resolutely as

hand on the

he and

lock-string

replied

though he had

of a

twenty-four

pounder, with whose iron messenger he could have

and her crew to the bottom

sent the jolly-boat his

own

pleasure.

"I want to "

talk with you, Levi,"

Talk as much as you

like,

added Dock.

but don't come any

nearer."

"I owe you one night,

but I will

for

call

the rap you gave

last

that square, if you will do

THE STARRY FLAG, OB

<566

Dock, as he pulled

the right thing now," continued

of strokes with his oar.

a couple "

Stop there

come any

bellowed Levi,

I don't

nearer.

"Have you got " If t

" Don't

fiercely.

you

want to shoot you."

a pistol?"

you come any nearer you

will find out

whether

have or not." It

was more than probable that Dock would

out whether Levi the

distance

had

of the

the

had a

pistol or not, if

find

he lessened

between the two boats; but the hint effect

salutary

Griffin.

question,

for

the

upon

villanous

captain

not seem disposed to test

did

wretches

him

are

generally

cowards.

"I only want

to talk with you, Levi," continued

Dock.

"Talk away fiow

much

much you

talk,

you

though

please.

I'd

I don't care

just as lief hear

thunder."

"I want

to settle

"You

can't settle

"Yes,

I can.

"No

up it

this business."

with me."

I didn't

mean

to hurt the girl."

matter what you meant," retorted Levi.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. "If all

six

come aboard

you'll

right with you.

thousand

doing

vessel, Levi, Fll

make

five

can put you in the

way

dollars, I

267

you want

it."

I don't."

"You

might just as well do

hurt the "

as not.

won't

girl."

Shut up

You

needn't talk to

in that way,"

said Levi, indignantly.

" But

just think of

five

thousand dollars don't

grow on every bush, you know. to

steal

getting

it,

you

years

the

you don't sheer

"My

a-going

put you in the way of

honestly."

"I can put you six

I can

see.

ain't

the

way of spending and

State Prison;

ofi^

father will

I'll

and go back to your

five

or if

vessel."

give you five thousand dollars,

Levi," interposed Bessie,

who

perhaps did not

know

Levi well enough to understand that no money could

tempt him to do a mean and wicked deed.

"I blow

say, Levi, like

sixty

didn't

you know

before morning

was going

persisted Dock,

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

268

growing desperate hero of

lant "

Let

move

failure

the

gal

Starry Flag.

blow," replied the young skipper.

"You

The

his

will get

swamped

in that

open boat."

"Don't trouble yourself about me," answered Levi,

now

really

encouraged and hopeful,

for

he saw the

gentle ripple of a coming breeze on the water.

Dock spoke

in a

low tone to Barnes, who was

companion, and the conversation continued for a ment, and then dent that Bessie

Dock wanted

out

old

was evi

to board the Flag,

and take

of her, and that Barnes was opposed to

the measure.

became rather stormy.

his

the bottom of the boat there was

dipper, with

rusty tin

Levi picked up.

Breaking

a long handle, which

off the handle,

he thought

was a tolerably good imitation of the barrel of a

pistol,

men

and he took some pains

the jolly-boat, hoping that

their ideas of

breath

air

swelled

the distance between

cseased,

the

display it

the

would quicken

prudence and discretion.

Flag, and she began to move

the off

sails

The

Starry

on her course again.

her and the jolly-boat

ki-

wrangling between Dock and Barnes

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN QF CAPE ANN. became more

and even

earnest,

words which Levi heard, headway, came from the pistol, as

he supposed

fierce,

the

269

and the

sail-boat

last

gathered

and related to the

latter,

was, which he had seen in

the hands of the young skipper.

"All

right, Bessie," said Levi, in cheerful tones, as

the Flag went off on her course. "

O, I

so glad

" !

ejaculated she, joining

him

the standing-room.

"I think Dock

persuaded Barnes

come out

He meant

here on a peaceful mission.

to play off

a trick on me, and get us aboard the Griffin."

"But he if

offered to give

you

five

thousand dollars

you would help him." "

Well, I wouldn't do

it if

he would give

thousand million dollars," said Levi, laughing.

we have

five

"But

got a breeze now, and I don't care whether

school keeps or not." It

was now almost

dark.

The weather had beer

cloudy during the latter part of the day, and the breeze that had sprung up

To Levi

there

and he

realized that

was a

23*

came from the southward.

dirty look

all

round the horizon,

he should have

his

hands

full

THE STAKRY FLAG, OK

270 before

morning.

Bessie

she

full,

would

not wishing to

well

handled,

He had

tested

weather

and

settled craft.

The

The wind continued

white caps on the

dark waves

foil

Starry

could,

ever

that

now be

Flag.

she

that

down upon Dock had

not

could

hoping

But he had

any gale

which

know anything

not

came.

Griffin,

fears

her,

terrify

and believed

her,

little

satisfied

quite

The darkness upon the

his

express

sea-going qualities of

the

and was

Flag,

sleep,

when

about the storm confidence

did not

blew.

her.

the

ocean,

returned seen

freshen,

to the

from

the

and

the

could

and

seen

of the cloudy night.

the gloom

"I think you

had better turn

Bessie,"

in,

said

Levi.

"Turn in?"

"Go

to bed, I mean."

" Don't

" you think we are going to have a storm ?

"It looks

rain,

certainly,

and

may blow

pretty hard."

"Do "Not

you think there a

bit, Bessie.

any danger?"

If I did think

so,

should

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. make

here than "

tor the nearest land.

How

should be in

black

are

safer out

those islands."

among

and gloomy

much

27)

looks

all

around

don't it?"

"It always looks so in

Now

water.

turn

on the

cloudy night

Bessie."

in,

She complied rather because Levi wished because she wanted to do

the

table-board

she could not

roll

the

lently,

morning.

before

and propped

front part of the berth,

the

out

when

skipper

then

lantern to the

compass,

sail,

up with a part of the covering, so that

banking

his

for her the night

Levi covered her with the old

fore.

than

She lay down upon

so.

made

the bed her friend had

the boat pitched vio

knew

she

returned

seat,

anticipation

and of

would

the helm, lashed

carefully

the

before

secured

the

time

rough

expected.

Levi heard no more of Bessie. slide

and the double doors of the cuddy

was a

little

fresh breeze

His

He had

fab.-

;

closed the

but there

blind in each of the latter, which in the

would admit a

sufficient

supply of

air.

charge was safe and comfortable, and Levi

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

272

Within nn

turned his whole attention to the boat.

was

but The Starry Flag,

still

hour after he had completed his preparations,

blowing decidedly fresh

under

all

;

was going

sail,

at a fierce rate through the

water, and not laboring very heavily.

She was

close-

hauled, or nearly so, and her skipper judged that ahe

was making about eight knots an hour was

entirely satisfactory to

At midnight

and put two

furled the jib,

the

behaved

Flag

him.

blew a summer

a rate which

gale.

Levi had

reefs in his mainsail;

admirably,

and

still

but

her

held

course.

At two

o'clock in the morning,

which was

two

had subsided

Levi's time,

guess work, and might have varied

all

hours,

rained

in a

torrents

;

but the

gale

measure, and one reef had been

turned out of the mainsail. board, though Levi

was

" all

was drenched to the

well skin.

long as the boat went ahead at a good round rate,

he did not care for anything possible that Bessie

it,

for

to stand

else.

seemed hardly

could sleep through the

whole

the Flag in the heavy seas seemed almost

up straight

times; the waves broke in

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

273

heavy volumes on the half deck over her head, and the

was

air

filled

with

howls.

terrific

she was

awake, she said nothing.

daylight,

on Thursday morning, the gale had

moderated into a fresh breeze, but

had hauled

the westward, so that Levi could not lay his course.

had

hoisted

out his reefs

turned the

The

jib.

the mainsail, and

sea had gone

down

consider

ably, and there was every prospect of a pleasant day.

seven o'clock, judged by the height of the sun,

the boat was running in towards

on the

Isles

of Shoals.

White

Island Light,

Bessie had turned out, and

declared that she never slept better in her that

The Starry Flag was

perfect

life,

love

and of a

boat.

The o'clock,

court

and Levi was

destination

;

but

to get a slant, inside

Rockport was to come

still

had

twenty miles

run in shore

and was sure that he

of Straitsmouth

ten

from

his

far

enough

" could " fetch

on the home tack.

Bessie

brought out the provisions, and "all hands" break fasted

on board, as they hoped,

that cruise.

for the last time,

THE STAKBY FLAG, OB

274

CHAPTER XXIV. THE RETURN OF THE STAKRY FLAG. excitement which

followed the

disappear

THE

Watson had only partially sub on Thursday forenoon, when Mr. Fairfield,

ance of Bessie

sided

Ruel Belcher, the constable, and others, assembled at the

office

Squire

of the examination of Levi.

tion

form, for the

course the

could not proceed.

trial

was a mere

young

heard of since

The two gen

given bail for the appearance

Levi were not in the

defendant was not in town, and

who had

tlemen

for

Saunders for the continua

a very pleasant frame of mind,

man had Monday

been

neither

seen

nor

night.

Without delaying the current of our story long enough

detail

all

the

efforts

which

had

been

used to find Bessie, the search had been as thor

ough

as wealth

and

energy could

make

it.

All

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE

275

AWBT.

the towns on the coast from Boston to Portsmouth

had been

visited, all

the ponds

all

places

had

Fishermen,

there

ten miles

sailors,

was not an

was Mr. Gayles, the

The absence of Levi

out-of-the-way

and

idle

the

turn,

was not discovered

him.

after

was sup

dog-fish, as usual, in

but in the evening, when he did not re

and nothing had been heard of him,

believed

them

busiest of

constable. Fairfield

posed that he had gone his boat;

and

person within

Tuesday forenoon; and even then

till

landsmen

Tuesday

during

Rockport, and

the

all

and

employed,

Wednesday

all

dragged, and

explored.

been

the shores had been examined,

that

had

unusual

something

Mr. Watson thought

occurred

was to

very singular that Levi

should thus absent himself at a time

when

Bessie's

parents were in such a state of agonizing suspense.

By Wednesday continued, Mr. his

ward had

turn.

was

satisfied

Fairfield

when began

Levi's to

absence was

be hopeful that

actually departed, never

not consistent with his ideas to believe

anything good fully

noon,

of Levi;

and by

this

time he had

himself that the boy had run away

P 76

THE STARRY FLAG, OK

that he feared to face the results of the examina

Some thought

tion.

young fisherman had ven

the

The

tured too far out to sea, and that

had been

down with

youth

the

&old

swamped and

"left

boat

for

was

the

carrying

bold

her;

and

some

port not yet visited, and

unknown."

parts

care which

sunk,

Starry Flag

that

had

Mr. Fairfield did not

one

true,

others

of them

could

only

be fully established.

The miser was apt he

wished

making out

believe,

back

generally

succeeded

On Wednesday

true.

he was pretty well borne

What

to be a fast reasoner.

satisfied

Rockport

that Levi

With

again.

afternoon,

would this

fifty

the identical

dollars

Levi by Mr. Watson

and

better for him, though worse for

its

afternoon,

would have been

the ends

of truth

he had permitted the money to remain

hiding-place.

paid to

Cunning and avaricious men

often overreach themselves;

justice, if

hun

from their hiding-place, and

put them in his pocket.

and

bills

not

belief

and confidence, he once more drew the two dred and

see

He went

man who had

Gloucester

that

applied to

him

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

277

a loan of five hundred dollars at an exorbitant

for

rate of interest.

amount from

his

passed the

own

with an equal

bills,

funds, to this person, with the

understanding that the money was to be expended

Boston the next day.

The

desire to obtain the extra

had tempted him

to use the

longed to Levi, before use this

word

off

to Boston,

all

traces

possible

him.

had

so.

and would

of them

which actually be

was prudent

But the soon

for

bills

rogues

would go

scattered,

Mr. Fairfield

lost.

interest

illegal

was shrewd, and that

lieved that he

bills,

and

really

and be

would not

the bank notes to appear

against

rubbed his hands with delight when he

finished the business,

and did not even grudge

the thirty cents he had expended in railroad fares

which was more extraordinary than any other part of the transaction.

Mr. Gayles had some views of his own in regard to the disappearance of Bessie

tinued absence of Levi. fidence in

him than

had been so energetic 24

Watson and

the con

Mr. Watson had more con

any other person, because he in

the

search,

and because,

THE STARRY FLAG, OK

278

from the beginning, he had spoken words of hope to

When

the distracted parents.

Levi's bail grumbled,

Mr. Gayles declared that the boy had not run away;

he was certain that he would come back.

Watson

assured

came back or be

And

Mr.

the grumblers, that, whether Levi

not,

he would pay the

bail if it should

forfeited.

"Mr. Watson, you don't know Levi well as I do," said the constable.

with him, and I

dealings

You may

through.

take

all

the

my word

two years

if that

boy

for

I'll

it,

he hasn't

be willing to

paid for dog-fish livers in

I've

money

had some

know him through and

run away; and more than that, give

Fairfield as

" I have

isn't

on Cap'n Dock Vincent's

track."

"Do fresh

you think so?" asked Mr. Watson, gathering

hope from the suggestion.

"I know sort

it.

I can't prove

of burnt into

that

it,

of course; but

it's

he knows more about

Bessie at this minute than any of the rest of us.

"I hope "

so."

found out yesterday "

this conversation

waa

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. " that the Griffin

on Wednesday

went

off

279

Mon

day night."

"But Levi was with me " I don't

know

you may mark

exactly

as late as nine o'clock."

how

it's

coming about ; but

words, that Levi's on the track

now."

Mr. Watson could only hope that Levi was in posi tion

but as

assist it

his

daughter, if she were

had been ascertained that the

still

living;

Griffin

went

out of the bay between four and five o'clock, while

Levi had been with him as late as nine, he could not fully adopt the theory of the constable.

There was a great deal of

interest manifested in

the examination on Thursday forenoon. curious to

know what would be

the bail would be forfeited.

People were

done, and whether

Levi could not appear,

and people desired to know what would be said; so they assembled, to the utmost capacity of the room, in

the squire's

ered

was

office,

and twice

around the door in the there, prepared with

able

many more gath Mr. Watson street. as

counsel to

argue for

a postponement, and to pay every dollar of expense that

had been or might be incurred.

Mr. Fairfield

THE STAKRY FLAG, OR

280

was

there,

convinced that Levi had run away, or

Ruel Belcher was

been drowned.

there, again

posing upon his brother-in-law the cruel necessity of

expending another twenty-five cents the un<lor side *of the

ently

from

Mr. Gayles was not

round."

He had gone

there yet.

for " a slice

to the post-office; but pres

appeared with a letter in his hand for Mr.

lie

Watson, which he had observed through the

window of the

office.

gave

glass

to the merchant,

and entered into conversation with the counsel

for

the defendant.

Squire Saunders said he was ready to proceed with the business of the court, and would call up the

c?e

of Levi Fairfield, continued from last Thursday.

Mr.

Gayles stated that the defendant was not present. " I

knowed he wouldn't

field.

would

all

be,"

interposed Mr. Fair-

That boy has run away, and the

time.

He's

them that trusted him won't

"Do you know where

lose nothin is,

knowed he

bad boy; but

hope

it."

Mr. Fairfield?" asked

the justice. "

I ?

;

don't

know nothin about

him,

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

281

He's hardly been near ray house sence he stole the

money." Mr. Cleaves,

who had been employed

for Levi, rose to state

counsel

the case, and ask for a further

He was

continuation for a few days.

confident that

the defendant would appear in due time, and that he

had no intention to evade the operation of the law. " Merciful

Heaven

" !

exclaimed Mr. Watson, sud

denly rising from his chair with the just received in his hand,

and

his

letter

he had

whole frame quiv

ering with emotion. "

Have you any

intelligence

from the defendant

asked Squire Saunders.

"No, But

sir;

but I have from

daughter."

then, as he thought of the condition of secrecy

imposed upon him by Dock Vincent, he hastily fold ed up the

The ten

letter,

into his pocket.

was that which Dock Vincent had

letter

and thrust

board the

What was twenty

Griffin,

and mailed

fifty

ter?

reclaim her.

ready to give

24*

Rockland.

thousand dollars to the

devoted father compared with the

He was

writ-

all

loss of his

daugh

the wretch asked to

THE STAEEY FLAG, OB

282 "

Where

room

the

she

forgot

demanded all

the justice

She

alive,

and those

about Levi, for the moment,

in their absorbing interest in the fate "

;

and says she

of Bessie.

well.

this

Beyond

not permitted to say," replied Mr. Watson, as

he moved towards the door, intent upon raising the

money and hastening

to the place

the

indicated in

letter for the recovery of his daughter.

found he could not go to Boston

and

o'clock in the afternoon,

were good enough raise the required

the money,

present.

there,

name and

credit

he determined to borrow

and proceed with

The Cape Ann

three

Rockport to enable him to

sum

as his

till

his

wife

Bangor.

millionnaire, one of Levi's bail, was

He was

the

president

and

of the bank,

promptly offered to supply the funds, though he was rather curious to to be applied. sel, fearful

know

But Mr. Watson kept

that Dock, if betrayed,

Vengeance on his darling be done, the merchant office until

what use the money was

Levi's case

child.

decided

his

own coun

would wreak

As nothing to

his

could

remain at the

was disposed of

for that day.

Squire Cleaves continued his remarks, urging his

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. reasons

for

postponement

the

283

examination.

While he was thus engaged, a man, with more en thusiasm than discretion, rushed into the room.

"The

Starry Flag

coming!" shouted

he, at the

top of his lungs.

"Where " je

she?" asked Mr. Gayles.

She passed Halibut Point half an hour ago, and

headed towards Old Pier now." " Is Levi in her

"Yes,

"A "A

sir;

continued Mr. Gayles.

and there

a girl with him."

girl!" girl

reckon

it's

messenger.

about the

dozen

one

" I've

that

old,

years

was

been looking

lost,"

and we replied

'em through

all

the

glass."

The ever,

court adjourned without any formalities what

and everybody rushed down to Old Pier, in

cluding the justice, the attorneys, the president of the

bank, ministers, deacons,

who was as

fast

at the justice's

his

fat

legs

Mrs. Watson that The

and laymen.

Mr. Babson,

room, hastened to his house

would carry him, to inform Starry

Flag

was

sight,

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

284

who was supposed

with a girl on board

The anxious mother joined that flocked

down

Old

the

Pier,

to be Bessie.

crowd of people

which now seemed

have half the population of the town gathered

it.

upon

The

report

coming,

and

was

correct

time

the

The Starry Flag was

Mrs.

Watson

reached

the wharf, and the crowd had opened for her

her husband on the edge

that she

the

could

join

the

boat

pier,

Levi sat at the

was

within

his

helm,

hailing

distance.

bosom bounding with

emotions such as he had never experienced before. Bessie sat opposite to him, even more agitated

than

She recognized her father and mother on the

he.

wharf, and " It

father;

waved her handkerchief

she

and a

thrill

she

" !

to them.

exclaimed the delighted

of joy flew through

the

hearts

of the multitude.

deafening cheer rose

certain hats,

on the

that the girl was Bessie.

and

women

rapture

their

the

air,

when

Men swung

handkerchiefs, and the

hearts

the

was

multitude

their

wave was

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. mightier

than

the

swell

the

sea

285 beneath

them.

Levi waved his hat as he ran The Starry Flag into

fellow

the

dock,

that

halyard.

ever

the

proudest

handled

and tiller

the or

happiest

manned

286

TILE

STABBT FLAG, OB

CHAPTER XXV. THE RESULT OP THE EXAMINATION. after cheer rent the

CHEER tude on

the pier as

The

the dock, and sweeping round

came up

from the multi

air

Starry Flag entered in

a graceful circle,

where Mr. Gayles leaped

to the stone steps

on board. "

How

are

you, Levi ?

exclaimed the constable,

grasping the hand of the young fisherman. "

O, I'm

The "

all right,"

replied the blushing skipper of

Starry Flag.

And

let

me hand

her up to her

and mother," continued Mr. Gayles, taking the

father little

Miss Bessie

maiden by the arm.

are so thankful

you

are safe!"

O, I

happy

" !

replied

Bessie,

trembling

with emotion.

The

cheers were continued by the excited crowd

THE YOUNG FISHEUMAN OF CAPE ANN. the kind-hearted

bow of

officer

287

conducted Bessie to the

the boat, and then up the steps, though she

Was clasped

her father's arms

before she could

reach the pier. "

child

Mrs. Watson, as her husband

cried

handed Bessie to her open arms.

was a touching

scene,

and many others besides

the father and mother wept for joy as Mrs.

Watson

pressed the lost one to her bosom, and thanked the

good Father, from the deepest depths of her for

restoring her child.

transpiring on

heart,

While these events were

the wharf, Levi let go his halyards,

and then quietly seated himself at the stern of the boat,

where he had

three days.

sat

most of the time

His eyes were deeply sunk

and he was pale and haggard. six

hours during

for nearly

in his head,

He had

slept

but

the whole cruise, and was worn

out with watching, care, and

His mission

anxiety.

seemed to be ended, and now he was hardly able to hold "

his head.

Three cheers

enthusiastic

The

Cape

for

Levi

Ann

Fail-field

" !

shouted

the

millionnaire on the pier.

cheers were given with a hearty good will

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

288

was handed

as Bessie

crowd pressed upon the

the "

into

Where

Levi

the moment, had his

daughter

parents.

asked Mr. Watson, who, for the

forgotten

the

which one of

carryall

brave

of parental

torrent

deliverer

emotions

flowed. "

down

in the

the

I'm

gone "

here

stay

till

added.

some

Levi

of the

;

and

have

folks

waiting for you."

thought

Levi, with

the

court

was down

a faint smile.

and others on the wharf. mainsail,

and go with you

want

see

it,

for

here,"

added

Saunders

Squire

stow

I'll

jib

and

a minute."

hear your story.

had a hard time of last

Come, Levi,

Mr. Watson wants to see you, and, besides,

;

the court

shore,"

Flag.

off."

" I

the

Mr. Gayles," replied

tired,

I'll

guess

steps again

you are wanted on "

replied Mr. Gayles, rushing

boat,"

blew

You must have like

sixty here

night."

"It blew some where I was."

Levi was not permitted

secure

his

sails,

for

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. that office

2&&

was taken from him by some fishermen,

and Mr. Gayles conducted him to the vehicle

which Mrs. Watson and Bessie were seated.

happy father grasped and

him

hurried

hand

his

the

into

The

he approached,

carryall,

which he

himself and drove off towards Mr. Babson's

seated house.

had

been

already

brief statement, that

had

and

Some

The

Starry Flag had

Bessie's

actually

hundred miles over the open ocean,

three

sailed

from

ascertained,

been

the

mouth

of the crowd lingered

the

Penobscot.

gaze upon her, and

express their admiration of her good behavior, and

the

skill

and daring of the youth who had piloted

her through the night, and the storm,

her

errand

entitled

warmly

praised.

portion

darkness, and

of mercy. of the

credit,

the

The boat was and

Mr. Hatch was almost

she

was

proud

and happy as though he had been on the

cruise,

for

he had built the boat, and she was a credit to

his skill.

"Don't said

he,

tell

when

Levi

stole that

money,

after this,"

the boat had been duly commended,

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

290

people walked back to the

as the

of Squire

office

Saunders to hear the rest of the examination.

Mr. Watson drove up the

street,

and the carriage

was followed by a portion of the crowd, anxious to learn the particulars of the cruise of

The

Starry

Flag.

don't

know what would have become been

father, if it hadn't

Some

the

of me,

for Levi," said Bessie.

away; but Mr. Gayles was

had run

Levi

supposed

people

quite sure that he would

return."

"TJncle Nathan thought I had run away, I sup pose," "

added Levi, rather dryly.

He was

"Poor

her "

child!

Mrs.

said

sure of

it."

"What a hard time you have had!"

Watson,

she

drew Bessie

side.

Indeed, I have not, mother," replied

wanderer; "at

least not since I left

the

Dock

little

Vincent's

vessel."

"But you have been

an open boat

all

the

time."

slept in

the

little

cabin

all

night,

and

didn't

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. wake up once, though Levi told me

291

morning he

this

had had a gale of wind."

"You must added "

Well, I

The

rather tired

vehicle

Between

listened

darling daughter

mother wanted for

his

noble

but I

and

Bessie

the

sleep."

and

his

the

soon

story of afresh

through which

perils ;

others

Watson wept

her

and both father and

hug Levi

daring,

be as good

shall

Levi

Mrs.

had passed to

Mr. Gayles

in.

the cruise was soon told. she

Levi,"

Mr. Babson's house, and

stopped

the party went

;

have made up

after I

arrived.

it,

Watson.

Mi'.

new

have had a hard time of

their

energy,

skill,

admiration

and

reso.

office

now,

lution.

"We Levi, if

must go to Squire Saunders's

you

feel

able," interposed

Mr. Gayles, when

the story was finished.

"Not

till

he has had some breakfast," said Mrs.

Babson, decidedly. all

night,

and

"The poor

I suppose

of coffee to-day." "

The

court

waiting."

fellow has been up

he hasn't had even a cup

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

292

"Let

wait,"

Saunders can't stop of coffee, he

The

down

sat

was

people, just

poor boy

all

ready,

office,

and the wanderers Mr. Gayles went

which was crowded with

and told them the story to which he had

They were

listened.

with Mr. Watson, every

willing to wait

all

Levi as long as he wished

;

man

room

the

felt

every one except

People would bind him over

mob

He would

cheap.

Levi was a

himself out for sixpence.

the justice

The

for trial.

lie

follow the

people might

take

into their heads

old

down

his

buildings

ward.

But Mr.

rmde two hundred and

fifty

guardian

do otherwise,

he persisted

Fairfield

to far

popular current

him

lost,

the

safe for

was hardly

a hero.

lion,

was

case

have sold

attempted

injuring Levi was concerned, and

was even prepared it

insisted

Fairfield.

Uncle Nathan

for

and when he arrived

upon taking him by the hand Mr.

Squirfc

to drink a cup

be a judge."

at the hospitable board.

the magistrate's

for the

isn't fit to

breakfast

"If

added Mrs. Babson.

realized dollars.

;

for the

pull

his

persecuting that he

had

Levi

had

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. the

stolen

believed

still

and he had obtained

the truth, it

money,

293

He had

it.

this

paid

away, the money had gone to Boston, and there

was no longer any danger that upon

would be found

his person or his premises.

The

case

was opened

The

again.

witnesses

as before

and

Mr. Fairfield

;

did

not

venture

belief that Levi

had stolen the money.

said

before,

testi.

but Dock Vincent was not present,

fied

had

the

received

his

repeat

Mr. Hatch, the

for

bills

boat, but

could not state

identified

by Ruel Belcher were the ones paid

him.

Mr. Watson was

had given

positively

called,

two hundred and

that

Fail-field ?

you identify the "

bills

and swore that he

fifty

dollars

which the boy persisted in regarding as a " Could

the

bills

asked Squire Cleaves,

Levi,

loan.

you paid to Levi

who

acted as coun-

i?l for the defendant.

could,"

replied

randum book from to

note

bank

down

the

bills larger

Mr. Watson, taking a his

pocket.

number and

"It

description

memo custom of aU

than twenties which come into

possession."

25*

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

294 " "Will "

bills ?

bank

you be kind added

these

him three

notes.

took

description with the

They

the

bills,

and compared

memorandums

their

before him.

are the bills I paid to Levi Fairfield," said

" I checked

he.

Cleaves, handing

Squire

Mr. Watson

look

enough to

them

off of

book

after I entered

the train that morning."

"You

are entirely

"It

impossible that I should be mistaken."

That

call

Gayles,

The

;

step

down,

you

Mr,

please.

Captain Treadwell."

room.

adjoining

The crowd opened

and when he appeared, Mr. and trembled

pale

captain "

witness indicated was conducted to the table

from an

him

will

sure?"

Captain

turned

Fail-field

in every joint of his frame.

was sworn, and took the Treadwell, do you

for

The

stand.

know

these

bills ?

continued Squire Cleaves.

do," replied

the witness, after deliberately ex

amining them. "

State

what you know about them."

"They were

paid

me by

Mr.

Fairfield.

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. lent

bills

were part of the money."

hundred

five

" 'Tain't

dollars

interrupted

and

yesterday,

295 these

the miserable guardiam

of Levi. "

" Silence

tell

said the justice.

I've

you

had them

for

bills

more'n two

months, and I didn't steal 'em nuther," persisted Mr. Fairfield, desperately.

sir

Silence,

I'll

commit you

for contempt,"

added Squire Saunders. Mr. Fairfield " subsided," but the cold sweat stood

his

forehead, and his

heart

was almost

his

mouth. "

on, Captain Treadwell," said the counsel for

the defendant. " Before

came I

up,

showed

Mr. Fairfield was out of

sight,

and wanted to see the money paid to me. it

to him."

Mr. Gayles looked at Levi, and

Both of them

Mr. Gayles.

had

kept

Mr. Gayles

one eye on

the

Levi

smiled.

guardian

The all

looked at constable

the

time,

and when he went to Gloucester, had followed and watched him.

Mr. Fairfield had "reckoned without

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

296 his host," as

bad men are apt to do.

Levi's absence

given him confidence to dispose of the

had

and while the ward had served Bessie by

had served

to the Penobscot, he

"It seems to after

Cleaves, fendant's,

these

the

and

;

himself.

evidence, including

"Levi paid

had been heard.

Mr. Hatch

his mission

this is a clear case," said

all

young man

the

this

same

bills are

now

Mr.

did

course,

them, he substituted it

Mr.

Fairfield

follows,

money

testifies

Fairfield

get

when Mr. Hatch permitted him

and

the

that

These

paid by Mr. Fairfield to Captain

Where

Treadwell.

Squire

by Mr. Watson, are the iden

bills, identified

ones with which he paid for the boat.

tical

bills;

the stolen

for

bills

them

to look

these

;

the day follows the night, that

them

stole

from

his

brother-in-law

himself." " I

Mr.

didn't

steal

'em

sich

thing

shouted

Fail-field.

"Perhaps you

will tell

where you did get them,"

added Squire Cleaves.

"I found 'em dian, desperately.

the

chimbly," gasped the guar

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN.

297

Can you inform the court how they came

in the

chimney

" Levi

hid 'em there," answered Mr. Fairfield, so

confused and overborne tions that his

by the unexpected revela

cunning forsook him, and he told what

he believed to be the truth.

Mr. Fairfield was put upon the stand again, and the

actually told

Why "

tice.

victed

truth

had changed the

that he "

whole

did

confessed

bills.

you change them

Did you wish

actually

have

asked

the

ward

your

jus

con

"Sartinly not."

"Why, then?" "I'm that boy's guardeen, and

with him.

and

fit

t'other

I can't

day

do nothin a wildcat

;

"What justice,

has that to do with it?" demanded the " Tell

impatiently.

the truth, or you shal)

be prosecuted for perjury." " You're tell

the

all

down on me now

truth,

money, and hid

allers

;

did.

the chimbly.

but I mean to

Levi I

stole

that

knowed

this.

THE STABBY FLAG, OK

298 ef I

Now, off,

hadn't changed the

and fooled

money away on a

that

all

the boy'd got

bills,

boat.

the bills was found in the chimbly, I wanted

money he stole to buy what Mr. Watson gin him in

look as ef Levi took the the

boat,

Ruel's

hid

wallet.

money Levi

and

back, jist

to keep

It did not yet

It lay

now

fixed

I I

what

got

There was not

his uncle.

and he was accordingly discharged, much to

who

the satisfaction of the spectators,

was the

Fairfield

proved

;

but

thief.

compared Levi

left

believed that

Nothing

could

was supposed that the miser would

be arrested in a day or two, "

stolen the wallet.

a particle of evidence to prove that Levi was

guilty,

Mr.

his

I'm his guardeen."

who had

between Levi and

got

Watson paid

Mr.

for him, for

appear

Ruel

things,

after

the

lawyers had

notes."

the

office,

and was enthusiastically cheered

by the crowd on the

street.

He went up

see

Bessie and her mother again, promising to stay with

Mr. Gayles over night.

Mr. Fairfield the

old

and

house, and

Ruel spent

Belcher went the

rest

of the

back

day

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. about the robbery.

talking

ing of

money, while

his

opinion.

question,

hour

make noth

Ruel would not admit that Levi

it.

his

late

could

They

299

They became

and the in

brother-in-law

his

when Ruel

evening,

what's the matter

Fairfield in the night, being

upon

over the

was continued

discussion

the

Massy sake

insisted

excited

quite

stole

till

retired.

exclaimed Mrs.

awakened by

a violent

noise in Levi's chamber.

"Robbers " I

dunno ;

Seems

it?" gasped the miser.

ain't

for

massy

ef the

sake, git

rest

up and

of that

find out."

dumbly 's comin

down." Mr. Fairfield partially dressed himself, and went to

Levi's

He was

room.

his

money was

the

room with a

On stood

the

as dear

terribly

frightened

his

and

life,

;

but

he entered

light in his hand.

hearth,

with his head up the chimney,

Ruel Belcher

his

night-dress.

His- eyei

were open, but he looked confused and stupid.

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

300

CHAPTER XXVI. CONCLUSION.

Ruel "

in there CREATION, ?

rather than

What

demanded Mr.

Fail-field,

surprised

alarmed at the situation of his guest.

Ruel Belcher made no

"What

on airth are yon doin

it,

reply.

Nathan?

called Mrs. Fail-field,

For

who had

pity's

sake, tell

me!"

stationed herself at the

foot of the stairs to listen. "

Come up

here, wife."

"What's the matter?"

who had been

continued Mrs. assured

partially

Fail-field,

by the voice and

the tones of her husband. "

Sunthin

tonished

ails

"Goodness!" wife,

Ruel,"

answered Mr.

that his brother-in-law

she went up

'There he

is;

ain't

the

sick

Fail-field,

did not speak. is

he?"

said

the

stairs.

he seems to be goin up chimbly."

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. " Gooilncss "

tricks

ain't

" I

his

old

up both

holding

Fairfield,

astonishment.

Ruel

ejaculated Mrs.

hands

gracious

301

thought he got cured

of them long ago."

"Why, what "Don't you

know what

"What

see,

in his sleep?

gits

I don't

he's doin in the chimbly."

shall I

"Jest kind it

him?"

ails

do?

wake him up?"

Shall I

coax him out

don't do sech folks no

you

good

can.

They

say

wake 'em up when

they're at their tantrums."

Mr.

followed the advice of his wife

Fail-field

Ruel was much more obstinate

was when awake, and was not

in his sleep

;

but

than he

inclined to be coaxed.

persisted in feeling of the bricks

inside

of the

chimney, and appeared to be looking for something.

His

brother-in-law

out

crawl

and

not

did

not alone. at last

Ruel stared

of the

tried

chimney

seem

make him

;

stoop,

but he was obstinate, conscious that he was

Mr. Fairfield continued his

efforts,

became so violent that he awoke the gave at his

"heavy

companion.

and

start,"

long

which sleeper.

gasp,

and

In his operations he had

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

302

dislodged a brick, which had fortunately descended

to the hearth without hitting him.

rubbed

his

eyes as he came to himself, and then yawned. "

What you

doin in here, Ruel

demanded Mr.

Fail-field.

" I

know.

don't

Where am

I ?

the

replied

sleep-walker. "

Stoop down, and git

chimbly,

" "

;

you were

goin

s'pose."

Ruel obeyed, and bent

him

out

his

head enough to enable

to pass out into the chamber. " Massy sake ! ejaculated his sister.

What do you want ? What

are

" you doing here ?

asked Ruel, apparently more astonished than any one else at the

"What

awkwardness of the are

you

doin,

situation.

Ruel?" added Mrs.

Fair-

field.

I'm not doing anything

anything about

it,"

at least, I don't

know

continued Ruel, with a look of

blank amazement. " o'

Well, git into bed again cold,

night

poking

clothes."

round

;

you'll git

with nothin

your death but

your

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. Ruel was quite tractable now; but hands were

his

after

washing them he

What was you

retired

doin

covered with

tlut

308

was found

crock,"

and

again.

chimbly, Ruel ?

the

asked Mr. Fairfield.

"I don't know." "

You

are

Fairfield.

"When

to git

used thin

up to

old tricks again," added Mrs.

your

you was a young man, you used

your sleep a'most every night, and

scared

a'most

would happen to

one night

and

half dollar

you had

about

to death for fear sun-

you.

all

over

hunted lost.

know you

got

house for

the

I s'pose you

up a

was worried

it."

"Can't you

what you was a dreamin on?"

tell

asked Mr. Fairfield.

Ruel rubbed his " It

comes to

eyes,

uf that wallet

though I had

put

look for " I

and thought a moment.

now," said he.

lost. it

seemed

somewhere, and

just

was going

it."

vow, Ruel, you put that wallet

yourself, jest

was dreaming

where Nathan

in the

found it!"

chimbly

exclaimed

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

304 his

sister,

upon

a flood

suddenly bursting

light

her.

"I shouldn't wonder; but any of

in ray sleep

I didn't

"You much

ain't

of you

got up

years," replied Ruel, with

late

of the mischief which

sheepish look, as he thought his involuntary act

know

had caused. of course.

blame,

sence

was married,

seen

hain't

and

never

thought of sech a thing as your gittin up in your sleep " I

with

now

days."

remember now that crock

the

Levi;

but I didn't

posed

got

hands were

think

after

morning

anything of

somewhere

round

covered

with

slept it.

the

stove,"

sup

added Ruel. "

Yes, and I found the sheets smooched too ;

Levi's allers into the dirt so deep that

but

didn't strike

as anything strange," said his sister.

" I'm very sorry for the I didn't

"Of Bartin,

" I

mean

course you

trouble I've caused

but

it."

couldn't

help

now, that Levi didn't s'pose he

;

didn't

;

One

it.

steal

thing

that money."

but I guess

ain't

best

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. to

about

anything

say

this

305

Mr.

said

matter,"

Fail-field.

Not say anything about

rising

exclaimed Ruel,

the bed.

Tain't best

" I

think

is it

" !

we'll

;

the

tell

truth,

any

rate."

Ruel was an honest man, and he was not willing that even a suspicion

should any longer rest upon

Levi while he had the means of exonerating him. " I

Mr.

don't

know how

it'll

work

how

done to any one

yet.

"But

was just

stole that

money."

Well,

in the

why

You changed

"I was just I

wanted was

his

you

tell

bills

in the

That was wrong."

when you found

demanded Ruel,

as sartin that

the

has been

as sartin as I could be that Levi

didn't

chimney

No harm

works.

hands of Mr. Hatch, Nathan.

said

Fail-field.

" I don't care

to tell on't,"

keep

the

Levi hid

indignantly. there.

boy from

foolin

All

away

money."

Ruel was not willing to

26*

believe

this.

He was

THE STARKY FLAG, OB

306 satisfied

that the

miser intended to convict the boy

of the crime, and he was determined that the whole truth should be told.

of mortification

scene

we have

after

morning

truth, that he

considered.

the

regret,

for,

and

covered with loss

his

narrated

from

deducing

money

Mr.

peared,

fact

on the

the

in the

real

chim

Gayles, and Levi

and the whole matter was carefully

While the party

the lawyer's

were thus occupied, Mr. Fairfield and for

the

" crock "

had hidden the wallet Mr. Watson,

himself.

were sent

and

described,

that his hands were

ney

went back

parties all

In the morning Ruol went to Squire Saunders,

bed. full

The

his

the miser was unwilling that

office

wife

anything

about him should be said behind his back. Ruel, in his anxiety for the safety of his money,

during his

first visit,

had dreamed about

it,

and be

ing a sleep-walker, had risen from his bed under the influence of this anxiety, his

brother-in-law

and placed the wallet where

had found

it.

After the second

examination, he and Mr. Fairfield had conversed

a late hour at night

about the guilt

doubtless the excitement

till

of Levi, and

had followed him

into hii

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. sleep

;

and again dreaming of

to search for

mony

of his

his wallet,

307

he had got

This explanation, with the

it.

testi

regard to his early sleep-walk

sister in

ing habit, fully satisfied those present that the real truth had been reached at

even

It also relieved

ing the

wallet,

changed the that

plead

Levi of

It cleared

last.

shadow of a suspicion.

the

Mr.

not of the fact

but

bills;

of the guilt of steal

Fail-field

and

was

had

that

vain for

him

he had done so only to prevent Levi

from "foolin away the money." " Mr. Fairfield," said Squire Saunders,

proved that you are not a charge of a young "

Why

not,

I'd

fit

man

you have

person to have the

Levi."

know," demanded

the

miser.

"In the

first

You have done man " I

your

you are not an honest man. best

convict

the

young

of a crime of which he was not guilty."

had good reason to believe he was

"You had no are

place,

guilty

right to change the

of perjury and

guilty."

bills;

conspiracy.

and you

You

have

done enough to send you to the State Prison now."

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

308 "

For

" I

ejaculated Mrs. Fail-field.

do not know that

you

against that

pity's sake

but

;

advisable

highly

certainly

you should continue to

the

proceed

improper

guardian

your nephew, or that his property should be longer intrusted

your keeping.

remain with your uncle?" ders,

"No,

sir,"

the

turning

continued

young fisherman.

your

petition

guardian

and

Probate Court

the

like to

another.

appoint

you think of any person you would "Yes,

Saun-

Squire

replied he, decidedly.

"Then you may remove

do you wish to

Levi,

have?"

Mr. Gayles."

sir

I will see that the proper papers are

"Very well; made out."

Levi had no malice against his uncle,

for

he had

not vainly studied the words and contemplated the divine example of mies, bless

that

hate

fully use

sary

them you,

Him who that

and

curse

said,

should

Love your ene

you, do good to

them

pray for them which despite-

you and persecute you."

that

live

with

his

starved and buffeted in the future

was not neces uncle,

and

he had been

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OP CAPE ANN. in the

past;

but

309

was necessary that no thought

of evil or revenge should lurk in his heart.

Mr. "Watson, Mr. Gayles, and others thought that

Mr. Fairfield should be prosecuted he

that

swearing

did

not

change

conspiracy in attempting

for

viction of his

ward

;

for

perjury in

the

procure

bills,

the

and con

but Levi pleaded for him, and

begged that no steps might be taken.

"Now,

you must dine with us to-day,"

Levi,

Mr. Watson.

" Bessie

not satisfied

when you

said

are

And, Mr. Gayles, you must come

out of sight. too."

Bessie er,

and

welcomed the young fisherman as

the truest of friends.

the cruise of

The

They

till

Starry Flag

a broth

talked over

dinner time, and

Levi insisted that the excursion to Thatcher's Island should take place the next day. "

Mr. Gayles, you are to be Levi's guardian

pose

party

seated

settled

fact," said

themselves

"If replied

am Mr.

shall

Gayles.

after

do the " If

I sup

Mr. Watson, as the

under the

shady side of the house,

;

piazza,

on the

dinner.

best I

can for him,"

hadn't been for him,

THE STARRY FLAG, OR

310 i

not be here

should

for

now,

saved

even while I had a warrant for his arrest in

lift!

pocket." "

You have been

believes in

made arrangements

terday I

own

to use his

you

to him, and he

friend

good

Yes

expression.

pay that wretch, Dock

Vincent, twenty-two thousand dollars to restore Bessie to me.

If Levi had not returned with her as he did,

have been on

I should

me no more Levi

willing

fore,

who

drel

thousand

faithful,

that miserable,

for

carried

twenty-one,

No,

off

dollars, to

sir

" !

the

seems to

and brave

honest,

pay over to

shall

Bangor

than right that I should do as much

my you

the

be held in

when

shall

protested Levi.

thing of that sort

done.

was

cowardly scoun

child.

you are appointed the

The money was nothing; but

afternoon.

for

my way

Boon,

there

of Levi,

guardian

sum of twenty-two trust for him until be his own." " I don't

I don't

want any

do that kind of

jobs for money."

Mr. Watson was determined to have his own way,

and Levi,

in spite of himself,

was made a

rich man.

THE YOUNG

FISIIEIt&IAN

OF CAPE ANX.

oil

the next session of the Probate Court, Mr. Fair-

field

was removed, and Mr. Gayles appointed the

The miser groaned when he was

guardian of Levi.

compelled to give up the property of his late ward.

was

out his teeth, especially as Mr.

taking

Gayles inquired very closely into every investment,

and refused to pay some exorbitant

and

clothing.

bills for

But the business was happily

and Levi was duly

installed

his

board

finished,

new home

Mr. Gayles's house.

Dock Vincent, when he found he could not over take

The Starry

where he sold

was

several

Flag, put back his vessel

and paid

off his

men.

weeks before he ventured to appear on

Cape Ann again; for

to a port in Maine,

but even that tune was too soon,

he was arrested,

tried,

and sentenced to the State

Prison for a term long enough to give him ample opportunity for repentance and reformation.

Mr. Watson has paid over the twenty-two thou sand dollars to Levi's guardian; ceived the

money

young fisherman

for

Mr. Hatch has re

The Starry Flag; and

the

no longer obliged to catch dog-

THE STARRY FLAG.

312

and a good edu.

to obtain a comfortable living

fish

cation.

The

Island came off as

excursion to Thatcher's

arranged, and the party had

a splendid

time

and,

;

though Jenny and Estelle "made fun" at the ex pense of Levi and Bessie, the latter seemed to en it

joy

quite

Mr. Watson dence

much

her companions.

purposes

Bessie

Rockport, for

must go there

every season

Last spring, Levi

summer

erect

declares

resi

long as she

she

that

lives.

spent a fortnight in Boston

;

and

he was dressed so nicely and looked so manly, be being so

sides

brave, noble, and good, that Bessie

was proud to go with him to the concerts and tures

;

and

sensation ple

there

when he was

declare

Watson's

withal,

that he large

invariably

introduced.

will

for

Knowing peo

Bessie

Levi,

greatest delight in telling about

and

quite

eventually possess

property;

no young man

created

lec

still

all

thinks

and takes

THE STARRY

THE YOUNG FISHERMAN or CAPE ANN.

Mr.

the

FLAG,

OLIVER OPTICS BOOKS All'Over-the- World Library. By OLIVER Illustrated.

OPTIC.

First Series

Price per volume, $1.25.

OR, THE ADVENTURES OP Louis BELGRADE. Millionaire at Sixteen; OK, THE CRUISE OF THE " GUARDIAN

missing Million;

MOTHER."

3. 4.

A Young Knight Errant; OR, CRUISING IN THE WEST INDIES. Strange Sights Abroad; OR, ADVENTURES IN EUROPEAN WATERS.

author has come before the public during the present generation

who

" around the world." As a means to this end. the hero of the " Guardian story purchases a steamer which he names the Mother," and

tairiing series

with a number of guests she proceeds on her voyage.

By OLIVER OPTIC.

A.ll-Over-tlie-World Library. Series.

2. 3. 4.

American Boys Afloat;

The Young Navigators " MAUD." Up and Down the Nile ;

Second

Price per volume, $1.25.

Illustrated.

Asiatic Brrezes

Christian Work, N.

OR, CRUISING IN THE ORIENT. ; OR, THE FOREIGN CRUISE

YOUNG ADVENTURERS

; OR, OR, STUDENTS ON

THB

IN AFRICA.

THE WING.

The

interest in these stories is continuous, and there is a great variety ot exciting incident woven into the solid information which the book imparts so generously and without the -slightest suspicion of dryness. Manly boys will welcome this volume as cordially as they did its predecessors. Boston

Gazette,

All-Oyer-the- World Library. ries.

1. ii.

3. 4.

Illustrated.

Across India

;

By OLIVER OPTIC.

Third Se

Price per volume, $1.25.

OR, LIVE

BOYS IN THE FAR EAST.

Half Round the "World; OR, AMONG THE UNCIVILIZED. Four Y'ouiig Explorers OR, SIGHT-SEEING IN THE TROPICS. ;

Pacific Shores

;

OR,

ADVENTURES

EASTERN SEAS.

Amid

such new and varied surroundings it would be surprising indeed if the author, with his faculty of making even the commonplace attractive, did not tell an intensely interesting story of adventure, as well as give much informa tion in regard to the distant countries through which our friends pass, and the strange peoples with whom they are brought in contact. This book, -ind indeed the whole series, is admirably adapted to reading aloud in the family circle, each volume containing matter which will interest all the members of the family. Boston Budget.

LEE AND SHEPARD, BOSTON, SEND THEIR COMPLETE CATALOGUE FREE.

OLIVER OPTIC'S BOOKS

The Blue and the Gray

Afloat. By OLIVER OPTIC- Six volumes. Illustrated. Beautiful binding in blue and gray, with emblematic dies. Cloth. Any volume sold separately. Price per volume, $1.50. 1. Taken by the Enemy. 4. Stand by the Union. 2. Within the Enemy's Lines. 5. Fighting for the Right. 3. On the Blockade. 6. A Victorious Union.

The Blue and the Gray

on Land.

4. On the Staff. 5. At the Front. Lieutenant at Eighteen. 6. An Undivided Union. "There never has been a more interesting writer in the field of juvenilt literature than Mr. W. T. ADAMS, who, under his well-known pseudonym, is known and admired by every boy and girl in the country, and by thousands who have long since passed the boundaries of youth, yet who remember with pleasure the genial, interesting pen that did so much to interest, instruct, and

Brother against Brother.

1. 2.

In the Saddh-.

ig style

as bright and entertaining as any work that Mr. ADAMS has yet put will be as eagerly perused as any that has borne his name. It would not be fair to the prospective reader to deprive him of the zest which comes from the unexpected by entering into a synopsis of the .~i:orv. word, how ever, should be said in regard to the beauty and appropriateness of the binding, which makes it a most attractive volume." Boston Budget. series forth,

and

Woodville Stories. By OLIVER OPTIC. Six volumes. trated. Any volume sold separately. Price per volume,

Illus

$1.25.

Rich and Humble; OR, THE MISSION OF BERTHA GRANT. In School and Out; OR, THE CONQUEST OF RICHARD GRANT. Watch and Wait; OR, THE YOUNG FUGITIVES. Work and Win; OR, NODDY NEWMAN ON A CRUISE. 5. Hope and Have; OR, FANNY GRANT AMONG THE INDIANS 6. Haste and Waste; OR, THE YOUNG PILOT OF LAKE CHAMPLAII*. " Though we are not so young as we once were, we relished these stories almost as much as the boys and girls for whom they were written. They we:f really refreshing, even to us. There is much in them which is calculated 13 1. 2.

3. 4.

inspire a generous, healthy ambition, and to make distasteful Fitchburg Reveille. ing to stimulate base desires."

The Starry Flag Illustrated.

Series.

By OLIVER OPTIC.

Any volume

sold separately.

all

reading tend

In six volumes. Price per volume,

$1.25. 1.

2. 3. 4. 6. 6.

The Starry Flag; OR, THE YOUNG FISHERMAN OF CAPE ANN. Breaking Away; OR, THE FORTUNES OF A STUDENT. Seek and Find; OR, THE ADVENTURES OF A SMART BOY. Freaks of Fortune; OR, HALF ROUND THE WORLD. Make or Break; OR, THE RICH MAN'S DAUGHTER. Down the River; OR, BUCK BRADFORD AND THE TYRANTS.

" Mr. ADAMS, the celebrated and popular writer, familiarly known as OLIVKR OPTIC, seems to have inexhaustible funds for weaving together the virtues of life; and, notwithstanding he has written scores of books, the same freshness and novelty run through them all. Some people think the sensational element predominates. Perhaps it does. But a book fbr young people needs this, and so long as good sentiments are inculcated such books ought to be read." LEE AND SHEPARD, BOSTON, SEND THEIR COMPLETE CATALOGUE FREE.

OLIVER OPTIC'S BOOKS

Army and Kavy Illustrated.

By OLIVER OPTIC.

Stories.

Any volume

sold separately.

Six volumes. Price per volume,

$1.25. The Soldier Boy; OR, TOM SOMKRS IN THE ARMY. The Sailor Boy; OR, JACK SOMERS IN THE NAVY. The Young Lieutenant; OR, ADVENTURES OF AN ARMY OFFICER. The Yankee Middy; OR, ADVENTURES OF A NAVY OFFICER. Fighting Joe; OR, THE FORTUNES OF A STAFF OFFICER.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Brave Old

Salt; OR, LIFE ON THE QUARTER DECK. volumes recounts the adventures of two brothers, Tom in the army, the other in the navy, in the great Civil War. The romantic narratives of the fortunes and exploits of the brothers are thrill in the extreme. Historical in the recital of the great events of ing accuracy that period is strictly followed, and the result is, not only a library of entertain also the but best of the Civil War for young people ever ing volumes, history

"This

series of six

and Ja;k Somers, one 1

written."

Boat Builders Series. By OLIVER OPTIC. Illustrated. Any volume sold separately.

In six volumes. Price per volume,

$1.25. All Adrift; OR,

1. J5.

3. 4. 5. 6.

THE GOLDWING CLUB. Snug Harbor; OR, THE CHAMPLAIN MECHANICS. and Compasses; OR, BUILDING THE HOUSE. Square Stem to Stern; OR, BUILDING THE BOAT.

All Taut; OR, RIGGING THE BOAT. Beady About; OR, SAILING THE BOAT.

" The series includes in six successive volumes the whole art of boat building, boat rigging, boat managing, and practical hints to make the ownership of a

boat pay. great deal of useful information is given in this Boat Builders Series, and in <ach book a very interesting story is interwoven with the infor mation. Every reader will be interested at once in Dory, the hero of 'All Adrift," and one of the characters retained in the subsequent volumes of the series. His friends will not want to lose sight of him, and every boy who makes his acquaintance in All Adrift will become his friend." '

Riverdale Story Books.

By OLIVER OPTIC.

Twelve vol

Illuminated covers. Price: cloth, per set, $3.60; per volume, 30 cents; paper, per set, $2.00. 7. Proud and Lazy. 1. Little Merchant. 8. Careless Kate. 2. Young Voyagers. 9. Robinson Crusoe, Jr. 3. Christmas Gift. 1O. The Picnic Party. 4. Dolly and I. 11. The Gold Thimble. 5. Uncle Ben. 12. The Do-Somethings. 6. Birthday Party. Riverdale Story Books. By OLIVER OPTIC. Six volumes. Illustrated. Fancy cloth and colors. Price per volume, 30

umes.

Illustrated.

cents. J. 8.

Little

Merchant.

Proud and Lazy.

4. 5. 6.

Careless Kate.

4. 5. 6.

Christmas Gift. Uncle Ben. Birthday Party.

Dolly and

Robinson Crusoe, Jr. Young Voyagers. Flora Lee Library. By OLIVER OPTIC. Six volumes. Illus trated. Fancy cloth and colors. Price per volume, 30 3.

cents. 1. 2. 3.

The Picnic Party. The Gold Thimble. The Do-Somethings.

These are bright short

stories for

who are unable to com younger children " They

LEE AND SHEPARD, BOSTON, SEND THEIR COMPLETE CATALOGUE FRFF

OLIVER OPTIC'S BOOKS

The Great Western

Series. By OLIVER OPTIC. In six yolumes. Illustrated. Any volume sold separately. Price per volume, $1.25. 1. Going West; OR, THE PERILS OF A POOR Bov, ". Out West; OR, ROUGHING IT ON THE GREAT LAKES. 3. L,ake Breezes; OR, THE CRUISE OF THE SYLVANIA. 4. Going South; OR, YACHTING ON THE ATLANTIC COAST. 5. Down South; OR, YACHT ADVENTURES IN FLORIDA. G. Up tho River; OR, YACHTING ON THE MISSISSIPPI.

"This is the latest scries of books issued by this popular writer, and deal r life on the Great Lakes, for which a careful study was made by the author in a summer tour of the immense water sources of America. The story, which carries the same hero through the six books of the series, is always entertainin?, novel scenes and varied incidents giving a constantly changing- yet always attractive aspect to the narrative. OLIVER OPTIC has written nothing better."

with

The Yacht Club Illustrated.

Series. By OLIVER OPTIC. r.i six volumes. Any volume sold separately. Price per volume,

$1.25.

WRECK

OF THE PENOBSCOT. 1. Little Bobtail; OR, THE 2. The Yacht Club; OR, THE YOUNG BOAT BUILDERS. 3. Money-Maker; OR, THE VICTORY OF THE BASILISK. 4. The Coming Wave; OR, THE TREASURE OF HIGH ROCK, 5. The Dorcas Club; OR, OUR GIRLS AFLOAT.

G. Ocean Born; on, THE CRUISE OF THE CLUBS. "The series has this peculiarity, that all of its constituent volumes are inde pendent of one another, and therefore each story is complete in itself. OLIVER OPTIC is, perhaps, the favorite author of the boys and girls of this countrv, and he seems destined to enjoy an endless popularity. He deserves his success, for he makes very interesting stories, and inculcates none but the best senti New Haven ments, and the 'Yacht Club" is no exception to this rule."

Journal and Courier.

Onward and Upward volumes. Illustrated. per volume, $1.25. 1. 2.

By OLIVER OPTIC. Any volume sold separately.

Series.

In six Price

THE FORTUNES OF A FARMER. Plane and Plank; OR, THE MISHAPS OF A MECHANIC. Desk and Debit; OR, THE CATASTROPHES OF A CLERK. Cringle and Crosstree; OR, THE SEA SWASHES OF A SAILOR. Bivouac and Battle; OR, THE STRUGGLES OF A SOLDIER. Sea and Shore; OR, THE TRAMPS OF A TRAVELLER.

Field and Forest; OR,

3. 4. 5. 6.

"Paul Farringford, the hero of these tales, is, like most of this author's young man of high spirit, and of high aims and correct principles, appearing in the different volumes as a farmer, a captain, a bookkeeper, a soldier, a snilor, and a traveller. In all of them the hero meets with very exciting adventures, told in the graphic style for which the author is famous. heroes, a

The Liake Shore Series. By OLIVER Illustrated.

Any volume

OPTIC.

sold separately.

In six volumes. Price per volume,

$1.25.

Through, by Daylight; OR, THE YOUNG ENGINEER OF THE LAKH SHORE RAILROAD. lightning Express; OR, THE RIVAL ACADEMIES. On Time; OR, THE YOUNG CAPTAIN OF THE UCAYGA STEAMER. Switch Off; OR, THE WAR OF THE STUDENTS. Brake Up; OR, THE YOUNG PEACEMAKERS. Bear and Forbear; OR, THE YOUNG SKIPPER OF LAKE UCAYGA. " OLIVER OPTIC is one of the most fascinating writers for youth, and withal one of the best to be found in this or any past age. Troops of young people 1.

2. 3. 4. 6. 6.

hang over his vivid pages; and not one of them ever learned to be mean, ignoble, cowardly, selfish, or to yield to any vice from anything they ever read from his 1

pen."

Providence Pres~,

LEE AND SHEPARD. BOSTON. SEND THEIR COMPLETE GATALOGUE FREE.

OLIVER OPTIC'S BOOKS

The Famous Boat Club volumes. Illustrated. per volume $1.25.

The Boat Club All Aboard OR,

;

OR,

By OLIVER OPTIC.

Series.

Any volume

sold separately.

Six Price

THE BUNKERS OF RIPPLETON.

LIFE ON THE LAKE. $ or UTever; OR, THE ADVENTURES OF BOBBY BRIGHT. THE -TRIALS AND TRIUMPHS OF HARRY WEST. Try Again; OR, Poor and Proud ; OR, THE FORTUNES OF KATY REDBURN. . Little by Little ; OR, THE CRUISE OF THE FLYAWAY. " This is the first series of books written for the young by OLIVER OPTIC. 3. 3. 4. 5.

Now

It laid the foundation for his fame as the first of authors in which the young and gained for him the title of the Prince of Story Tellers. The six books are varied in incident and plot, but all are entertaining and original."

delight,

(Other volumes in preparation.)

Young America Abroad: A

LIBRARY OF TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE IN FOREIGN LANDS. By OLIVER OPTIC. Illus trated by NAST and others. First Series. Six volumes.

Any volume 1. 2.

sold separately.

Price per volume, $1.25.

Outward Bound; OR, YOUNG AMERICA AFLOAT. Shamrock and Thistle; OR, YOUNG AMERICA IN IRELAND AND SCOTLAND.

S. 4.

5. 6.

Red

Cross; OR, YOUNG AMERICA IN ENGLAND AND WALES. Dikes and Ditches; OR, YOUNG AMERICA IN HOLLAND AND BELGIUM. Palace and Cottage; OR, YOUNG AMERICA, IN FRANCE AND SWITZERLAND. Down the Rhine; OR, YOUNG AMERICA IN GERMANY,

"The story from its inception, and through the twelve volumes (see Second Series), is a bew'tching one, while the information imparted concerning the countries of Europe ana the isles of the sea is not only correct in every particu OLIVER OPTIC will continue to be the lar, but is told in a captivating style. boys' friend, and his pleasant books will continue to be read by thousands of American boys. What a fine holiday present either or both series of ' Young ' America Abroad would be for a young friend It would make a little library highly prized by the recipient, and would not be an expensive one." Provi dence Press. !

Young America Abroad. By OLIVER 1

Six volumes. Illustrated. Price per volume, $1.25. 1.

the Baltic; OR,

OPTIC.

Any volume

YOUNG AMERICA

DENMARK.

Second sold

Series.

separately.

NORWAY, SWEDEN, AND

2. Northern Lands; OR, YOUNG AMERICA IN RUSSIA AND PKUSSIA. 3. Cross and Crescent; OR, YOUNG AMERICA IN TURKEY AND GKEI-CE. 4. Sunny Shores; OR, YOUNG AMERICA IN ITALY AND AUSTKIA. 6. Vine and Olive; OR, YOUNG AMERICA IN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL. 6. Isles of the Sea; OR, YOUNG AMERICA HOMEWARD BOUND.

OLIVER OPTIC

boy of intelligence

a nom deplume that is known and loved by almost every We have seen a highly intellectual and world-

in the land.

ness, can thus find pleasure in a book for boys, no additional words of recoo

mendation are needed."

Sunday Times.

LEE AND SHEPARD, BOSTON, SEND THEIR COMPLETE CATALOGUE FREE.

LEE AND SHEPARD'S ILLUSTRATED JUVENILES

J. T.

TROWBRIDGE'S BOOKS

THE START IN LIFE A.

SERIES. 4 volumes.

Start in Life : A STORY OF THE GENESEE COUNTRY. Illustrated. $1.00. J. T. TROWBRIDGE.

In this story the author recounts the hardships of a young lad in his first to start out for himself. It is a tale that is full of enthusiasm and The writer shows how hard the youths of a century ago were compelled to work. This he does in an entertaining way, mingling- fun and adventures with their daily labors. The hero is a striking example of the honest boy, who is not too lazy to work, nor too dull to thoroughly appreciate a joke.

endeavor

budding- hopes.

Biding His Time.

Illustrated. $1.00. J. T. TROWBRIDGE. of spirit and adventure, and presents a plucky hero who was willing bide his time," no matter how great the expectations that he indulged in from his uncle's vast wealth, which he did not in the least covet. He was left a poor orphan in Ohio at seventeen years of age, and soon after heard of a rich uncle, who lived near Boston. He sets off on the long- journey to Boston, finds his uncle, an eccentric old man, is hospitably received by him, but seeks employment in a humble way, and proves that he is a persevering and plucky "

It is full

young man."

Boston

Home

T. TROWBRIDGE.

This book is shore, and the

Journal.

The Kelp Gatherers: A STORY J.

OF THE MAINE COAST.

Illustrated.

$1.00.

of interesting information upon the plant life of the sea life of marine animals; but it is also a bright and readable all of character and the vicissitudes of human life, in with the hints story, depicting which the author is an acknowledged master.

The

full

Scarlet Taiiager, AND OTHER BIPEDS. TROWBRIDGE. Illustrated. $1.00.

Every new story which Mr. TROWBRIDGE begins is followed through succes sive chapters by thousands who have read and re-read many times his precedingOne of his greatest charms is his absolute truthfulness. lie docs not depict little saints, or incorrigible rasc;.'s, but just boys. This same fidelity to nature is seen in his latest book, "The Scarlet Tanager, and Other Bipeds." There is enough adventure in this tale to commend it to the liveliest reader, nd all the lessons it teaches are wholesome.

tales.

LEE AND SHEPARX BOSTON. SEND THEIR COMPLETE CATALOGUE FREE.

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY Los Angeles '

This book

DUE on the last date stamped below.

25m-9,'47(A5618)444

3 1158 00473 920(5

UC SOUTHERN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACILITY

001 378 527