"Oh, my God!" cried Zillah, in an agony; "she may be clinging there now, with every moment lessening her chance! Fly to the nearest fishermen, John! Ten pounds apiece if you get to the bay within half an hour! And any thing you like if you only bring her back safe!" Away flew John, descending the rocks to the nearest cottage. There he breathlessly stated his errand; and the sturdy fisherman and his son were immediately prepared to start. The boat was launched, and they set out. It was slightly cloudy, and there seemed some prospect of a storm. Filled with anxiety at such an idea, and also inspired with enthusiasm by the large reward, they put forth their utmost efforts; and the boat shot through the water at a most unwonted pace. Twenty minutes after the boat had left the strand it had reached the bay. All thought of mere reward faded out soon from the minds of these honest men. They only thought of the young lady whom they had often seen along the shore, who might even now be in the jaws of death. Not a word was spoken. The sound of the waves, as they dashed on the rocks alone broke the stillness. Trembling with excitement, they swept the boat close around the rocky promontory. John, standing up in the bow, held aloft a lantern, so that every cranny of the rocks might be brought out into full relief. At length an exclamation burst from him. "Oh, Heavens! she's been here!" he groaned. The men turned and saw in his hand the covered basket which Hilda always took with her on her expeditions to bring home her specimens. It seemed full of them now. "Where did you find it?" they asked. "Just on this here ledge of rock." "She has put it down to free her hands. She may be clinging yet," said the old fisherman. "Let us call." A loud cry, "Miss Lorton!" rang through the bay. The echo sent it reverberating back; but no human voice mingled with the sound. Despondingly and fearfully they continued the search, still calling at times, until at last, as they reached the outer point, the last hope died, and they ceased calling. "I'm afeard she's gone," said John. The men shook their heads. John but expressed the general opinion. "God help that poor young thing at the cottage!" said the elder fisherman. "She'll be mighty cut up, I take it, now." "They was all in all to each other," said John, with a sigh. By this time they had rounded the point. Suddenly John, who had sat down again, called out: "Stop! I see something on the water yonder!" [Illustration: "She Clutched His Arm In A Convulsive Grasp."]