Clayton, as she brought in my
broth and wine, "that his very voice is changed. He is a good soul, and
has shown you great interest. Some day you must send him a present, that
is, if you are able; but just now all you have to think of is getting
safe ashore. Lady Anastasia will go to her friends, probably, or to
those of the gentleman she is engaged to; but I do not mean to forsake
you until I see you better, and in good hands."
I know not how it was that my heart sank so strangely at this
announcement. The woman was kind--tender, even--and had probably saved
my life, and yet her presence to me was a punishment worse than pain, a
positive evil greater than any other.
"I shall go to the Astor House," I faltered. "The captain has promised
me his escort thither."
"Yes, yes, I know, he has told me all about it; but your friends may not
be in waiting, and it is simply our duty to see you in their hands. And
now drink your sangaree. See, I have broken a biscuit in the glass, and
it is well seasoned with lemon and nutmeg. There, now, that is right; a
few spoonfuls of soup, and you will feel strengthened for your
undertaking. I will sit quietly in the corner until you have your rest."
"No, I prefer to see Christian Garth before I try to sleep--the man who
steered our raft--and the young girl he saved, and the baby--let them
all come to me, and we will go on shore together.
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