All clung to the ropes or whatever object presented itself
expecting to be washed overboard, as the boat shook and creaked in its
agony.
Hanging for dear life to the railing near the wheel the Captain looked
upon the uproar of the elements, and must have admitted to himself that
the helmsman's words of accusation were only too well founded. A
frightful cry shook his soul. "Cain, where is thy brother Abel? What
hast thou done with thy brother's child? What judgment will be
pronounced on thee?" Now he did not seek to put the guilt on his
corrupter, his bad angel, but admitted that he was guilty, and despair
almost broke his heart. "There is no forgiveness, miserable sinner,"
whispered the arch enemy. "Thou art a murderer, thy brother's
murderer!" Then came back a happier thought, a picture of his innocent
youth. He saw himself before the miraculous image of the Blessed
Virgin, which he then so often visited. There were the lights of many
candles, and her motherly eyes looking down upon him, and at the foot
of the image written on a little tablet these words: "Mother of mercy,
refuge of sinners: pray for us.
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