The Island Bride — page 67: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

PEACEFUL POSSESSION. s.. Se “We'll settle this dispute some other time,” said Wilkes, seizing his paddle. “ You're the biggest, it’s true, but there'll have to be some desp’rate fighting before you get the best of me. A man may as well die first as last. That’s my logic!” Clark turned his back to the speaker, and laughed con- temptuously. | “We shall see—we shall see,” he replied, “although I for one hayen’t a high opinion of your ‘ pluck.’” The raft finally disappeared from the gaze of the happs couple, who had been watching it from the beach. “ Thank God, dear husband, we are at last left in peacefu. possession of our beautiful island!” cried Minnie, clapping her hands. “Ay, ay, thanks to that man Choke,” answered Harmon, kissing his bride. “ He certainly was a singular character for a convict,” he added, thoughtfully. ‘“‘ Whatever may have been the crime for which he was condemned, he has acted in a praise- worthy manner by us, and I trust he will eventually forsake his ruffian associates and lead the life of an honest man.” “T shall never forget to pray for him with my whole heart and soul !” said Minnie. “We both owe him a debt of gratitude, which I am afraid we may never have a chance to repay,” replied Weldon. “And now,” said the young wife, “ you had bettergo toone of the huts and finish your nap, which was so unceremonious- ly interrupted aboard the raft. I will remain here to watch.” “ No—no,”’ answered Harmon. “ It is your turn to sleep. I will keep a look-out, as I am more experienced in that busi- ness than. you are.” .: “Very well, if you won't go to sleep we will both remain here until morning, as two pair of eyes are better than one But, do you really think the convicts will return ?” | “No,” answered Harmon ; “ but it is as well to be vigilant.” They seated themselves upon a rock, and kept a sieady look-out until daylight, when they ascended a lofty hill and - swept the ocean with curious glances. They saw nothing of the raft, but far upon the eastern — seaboard they beheld a which Harmer declared to be | a sail. AOTC ROT oe