On the passage from Cottage Island Hatchie had related the particulars
of the affray, so that on his arrival Dr. Vaudelier was in possession of
all the facts.
"You have had a severe fight here, madam," said he to Emily, who had
followed him out to inquire more particularly into the situation of her
hostess.
"We have, indeed; but I trust no lives will be lost," replied Emily.
"No; the woman will do very well. The wound is a severe one, but not
dangerous. Her strong constitution will resist all fatal consequences."
"I trust it may, for this has been a day of disaster, without the loss
of more life."
"You were a passenger in the Chalmetta?"
"I was."
"Then you have had a narrow escape."
"But a more narrow one since the explosion. Thank Heaven, I have been
preserved from both calamities!"
"Had you no friends on board?"
"I had--one friend;" and she hesitated. "I fear he has perished."
"Hope for the best!" replied the doctor, kindly.
The blush, and then the change to the paleness of death, as Emily
thought of Henry, first as the lover, and then as a mangled corpse had
not escaped the notice of Dr.
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