That child who came to my wife and me when I was old and she had
passed her youth is all in all to us both. Had your strength and
courage been for barter in the moments when my child was quivering
between life and death, I would have cheerfully purchased them with
not half but all! Sir, I should have given my soul! I can say this
now, for gratitude is above all barter; and surely it is allowed to a
father to show gratitude for the life of his child!'
This great-hearted generosity touched Harold to the quick. He could
hardly speak for a few minutes. Then instinctively grasping the old
man's hand he said:
'You overwhelm me. Such noble trust and generosity as you have shown
me demands a return of trust. But I must think! Will you remain
here and let me return to you in a little while?'
He rose quickly and slipped down the iron ladder, passing into the
darkness and the mist and the flying spray.
CHAPTER XXVII--AGE'S WISDOM
Harold went to and fro on the deserted deck.
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