In the meantime, the two gentlemen were also supplied with some clothing that belonged to the absent brothers of Grace, and presently they all appeared in the room below, and joined the family. They could scarcely repress a smile as they saw each other arrayed in such unusual attire, but it was with deep feeling that they congratulated one another on their escape. The guests then introduced themselves as Mr. and Miss Dudley, and Mr. Morrington. "We have been spending a holiday at Tynemouth," said one, "and have been there several weeks. This morning as the sea was calm, and the weather lovely, we came out for a sail, little thinking that in a few hours the scene would be so greatly changed. It is like our treacherous English climate." "But we came farther than we had intended, for the sea was so thoroughly enjoyable." "And the gale came up so suddenly that we had not time to seek a place of safety, and it was so very violent that we were driven quite out of our course." "Had you no control over the vessel?" asked Mr. Darling. "Not the least We were quite at the mercy of the winds, and waves." "And they are most merciless," said one of the young men. "I do not know how to thank you enough for your great kindness, Mr. Darling," said Miss Dudley. "Words are quite too weak to express the grateful feelings of my heart; but I shall ever remember your great courage, humanity, and kindness, in attempting and accomplishing our rescue from a watery grave." "Nay, nay," said the kind lighthouse keeper, "do not say any more on the subject. I am sufficiently rewarded for any little trouble and risk by the happiness of knowing that I have been the means of preserving your lives, by the help of God." "Your heroic conduct ought to be reported to the authorities." "But we are placed here to keep the lamps burning; and though we are very glad to save lives, you understand that is not the work we are paid for doing." "You are paid though, by the consciousness of having done a good deed, and the gratitude of those whom you have rescued." "Certainly, but you must please excuse me now, as I must relieve my son, and take my turn in watching by the beacon." "And now," said Mrs. Darling, "I am sure you will be glad of some refreshment."