and science of the supper-time, around the westward headland came the

bold fleet of Springhaven!

Seven ships of the line--the fishing line--arranged in perfect order,

with the Rosalie as the flag-ship leading, and three upon either

quarter, in the comfort and leisure of the new-born peace, they spread

their sails with sunshine. Even the warlike Dolly could not help some

thoughts of peacefulness, and a gentle tide of large good-will submerged

the rocks of glory.

"Why should those poor men all be killed?" she asked herself, as a new

thing, while she made out, by their faces, hats, fling of knee or

elbow, patch upon breeches, or sprawl of walking toward the attentive

telescope, pretty nearly who everybody of them was, and whatever else

there was about him. "After all, it is very hard," she said, "that they

should have to lose their lives because the countries fight so."

But these jolly fellows had no idea of losing their lives, or a hair of

their heads, or anything more than their appetites, after waging hot

war upon victuals. Peace was proclaimed, and peace was reigning; and

the proper British feeling of contempt for snivelly Frenchmen, which

produces the entente cordiale, had replaced the wholesome dread of them.

Not that Springhaven had ever known fear, but still it was glad to leave

off terrifying the enemy. Lightness of heart and good-will prevailed,

and every man's sixpence was going to be a shilling.

In the tranquil afternoon the sun was making it clear to the coast

of Albion that he had crossed the line once more, and rediscovered a

charming island. After a chilly and foggy season, worse than a brave

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