Sedgwick was needed in London.  What was best to do?

He prepared a statement of the mine, signed it and got Jordan to sign it, and he shipped the bullion to a well-known Paris banking house.

Nothing held him back except Jordan’s illness.  He was growing anxious, and his wife, who watched his every mood, quickly discovered it.  So soon as she did, she went to him, put an arm around one of his, and said.

“What is it, love?  What is it that is troubling you?”

He explained that he ought to be in London, but Jordan was yet too weak to travel, and he could not leave him—­not for twenty mines.

Grace thought the matter over for two or three minutes, and then said cheerfully: 

“I have it, husband!  We will get a nurse for the dear man.  I will remain, and Margaret and myself and the nurse can see to him, and will follow you when he can travel.”

Sedgwick looked at her fondly for a moment, and then said: 

“You are a great little woman, sure enough; but you are such a one that I would rather remain than go without you.”

She put her hands upon his lips, and said: 

“Duty, love.  Hist, we must always be brave and self-forgetful enough to do our duty.  I am going now to see Margaret.”  She walked a few steps, then turned back and said: 

“Why would it not be the right thing for Mr. Jordan and Margaret to be married before you leave?”

“I believe it would,” said Sedgwick, “only that I have planned that we would give them a great wedding in London.”

“So had I,” said Grace, “and we will.”

Just as they were talking, Captain McGregor came from the direction of the harbor.

“I have news for you,” he said.  “I have sold the ‘Pallas.’  She will sail to-morrow, and now I propose to remain with you, and go with you to London when you go.”

“You have sold the dear ship?” said Sedgwick.  “And what of the doctor and the crew?”

“They will sail in her.  The doctor will be up to make his adieus to-night.  They wanted to charter the craft for a long voyage.  I would not go, but offered to sell, and they bought, and re-engaged the officers, the surgeon and the crew.”

“Let us go on board,” said Sedgwick.  “I want to bid those good men good-bye.”

“So do I,” said the captain.  “I will be grateful if you will go with me.”

“Wait a moment until I run down to the bank,” said Sedgwick.  “While I am gone, Grace, get your hat and wrap; and by the way, captain, how many men and officers are there?”

The captain replied:  “Six officers, the surgeon and steward, three waiters, twelve seamen and sixteen men in the firing department.”

The company soon set out, and went on board the “Pallas.”

All hands were called on deck.  Captain McGregor made them a little speech; told them that his chief regret in giving up the ship was in parting with them, and wished them all happiness and prosperity.  They gave him three cheers, and all shook hands with him, wishing him long life and asking God’s blessing for him.