"Star Bright!" he called; and the dancing shape came flying, and stood
on tiptoe in the doorway. Steady, now, January! keep your voice
steady, if there is any will left in you. Keep your head turned a
little away, lest there be any change in your face, yet not turned
enough to make her wonder. "Star Bright," said Captain January, "it's
about--time--for the _Huntress_--to be along, isn't it?"
"Yes, Daddy," said the child; "she's just in sight now. Shall I go
down and wave to Bob as he goes by?"
"Yes, Honeysuckle," said the old man. "And--and wait to see if he
comes ashore. I think--likely--Bob'll come ashore to-day. He was goin'
to bring--somethin'--for me. Is there a squall comin' up, Jewel
Bright?"
"A squall, Daddy?" said the child, wondering. "Why, there isn't a
cloud in the sky."
"Jes' so!" said Captain January. "I--only jist asked. Good-bye, Star
Bright."
"Dear Daddy! Good-bye!" cried the child, and she sped away over the
rocks.
So dark! and not a cloud in the sky. If he might have looked once
more, with those fast-darkening eyes, at the little blessed face which
held all the world in it! if he could call her back now, and kiss
her once more, and hold her little hand--No! no! steady, January!
steady now, and stand by!
Quite dark now.
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