oars drew nearer. "Shove that lamp back in the binnacle," said Will; then he leaned over the rail and listened. I replaced the lamp, and came back to his side. The dipping of the oars ceased some dozen yards distant. "Won't you come alongside now?" asked Will in an even voice. "I have had the lamp put back in the binnacle." "I -- I cannot," replied the voice. "I dare not come nearer. I dare not even pay you for the -- the provisions." "That's all right," said Will, and hesitated. "You're welcome to as much grub as you can take -- -- " Again he hesitated. "You are very good," exclaimed the voice. "May God, Who understands everything, reward you -- -- " It broke off huskily. "The -- the lady?" said Will abruptly. "Is she -- -- " "I have left her behind upon the island," came the voice. "What island?" I cut in. "I know not its name," returned the voice. "I would to God -- -- !" it began, and checked itself as suddenly. "Could we not send a boat for her?" asked Will at this point. "No!" said the voice, with extraordinary emphasis. "My God! No!" There was a moment's pause; then it added, in a tone which seemed a merited reproach: "It was because of our want I ventured -- because her agony tortured me." "I am a forgetful brute," exclaimed Will. "Just wait a minute, whoever you are, and I will bring you