He first thought of the destruction that was present with
them. He was as calm and composed as if they sat beneath the thorn-tree
on the still moorlands, far away. He took her, without a word, to the end
of the quarter-deck. He lashed her to a piece of spar. She never spoke:
"Maggie," he said, "my only chance is to throw you overboard. This spar
will keep you floating. At first, you will go down--deep, deep down. Keep
your mouth and eyes shut. I shall be there when you come up. By God's help,
I will struggle bravely for you."
She looked up; and by the flashing light he could see a trusting, loving
smile upon her face. And he smiled back at her; a grave, beautiful look,
fit to wear on his face in heaven. He helped her to the side of the vessel,
away from the falling burning pieces of mast. Then for a moment he paused.
"If--Maggie, I may be throwing you in to death." He put his hand before his
eyes. The strong man lost courage. Then she spoke:
"I am not afraid; God is with us, whether we live or die!" She looked as
quiet and happy as a child on its mother's breast! and so before he lost
heart again, he heaved her up, and threw her as far as he could over into
the glaring, dizzying water; and straight leaped after her. She came up
with an involuntary look of terror on her face; but when she saw him by the
red glare of the burning ship, close by her side, she shut her eyes, and
looked as if peacefully going to sleep.
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