It was the first time since the accident to Pownal that Mr. Armstrong or his daughter had seen him, and the conversation naturally turned upon the danger he had incurred.

“It was a providential escape,” said Mr. Armstrong.  “It is astonishing how many dangers we run into, and our escapes may be considered as so many daily miracles to prove the interposition of a controlling Providence.  There are few persons who cannot look back upon several such in the course of their lives.”

“You are right, my friend,” said the Judge.  “I can recall half a dozen in my own experience; and if some have had fewer, some, doubtless, have had more.”

“These accidents are, I suspect, the consequences of our own carelessness in nine cases out of ten,” said Pownal.  “At any rate, I am sure it was my carelessness that occasioned mine.”

“You speak as if it could have been avoided,” said Mr. Armstrong.

“Certainly.  Do you not think so?”

“I am not sure of it,” said Mr. Armstrong.  “There appears to be a chain which links events together in an inevitable union.  The very carelessness of which you accuse yourself may be the means purposely used to bring about important events.”

“It has brought about very agreeable events for me,” said Pownal.  “I am only afraid, from the care lavished upon me, I shall be tempted to think too much of myself.”

“It has scattered pleasure all around, then,” said Mrs. Bernard, kindly.

“Yes,” said the Judge; “any attention we can render is more than repaid by the pleasure Mr. Pownal’s presence imparts.  If he should ever think more highly of himself than we do, he will be a very vain person.”

The young man could only bow, and with a gratified countenance return his thanks for their kindness.

“Your adventure was also the means,” said Mr. Armstrong, “of making you acquainted with our anchorite.  Did you not find him an interesting person?”

“More than interesting,” replied Pownal.  “From the moment he took me into his arms as if I had been a child, and with all the tenderness of a mother, I felt strangely attracted to him.  I shall always remember with pleasure the two days I spent in his cabin, and mean to cultivate his acquaintance if he will permit me.”

“He is evidently a man of refinement and education,” said Armstrong, “who, for reasons of his own, has adopted his peculiar mode of life.  It was a long time before I could be said to be acquainted with him, but the more I know him, the better I like him.  He and Faith are great friends.”

“I value his friendship highly and am glad he made so favorable an impression on you, Mr. Pownal,” said Faith.

“I do believe,” cried Anne, “Faith could not reverence him more if he were one of the old prophets.”

“If not a prophet,” said Faith, “he is at least a noble and good man, and that is the highest title to respect.  He takes an interest in you, too, Mr. Pownal, for Anne tells me he has been to see you.”