Fostina Woodman, the Wonderful Adventurer

ch filled his breast, together with the repeated assurances of Fostina's uncle, that he would watch over and protect her during his absence, induced him at last to follow them.

Poor Lewis, it was a trying moment! The time had now come that he must bid adieu to his fair betrothed! The lovely Fostina fell on his bosom and wept bitter tears of anguish. He bid her await with calmness his return, when they should never more be separated. One fond embrace, and affectionate farewell, from the trembling lips of Lewis Mortimer, and they parted!

CHAPTER II.

The Ship Essex sails for California, with Lewis Mortimer and the two Brothers on Board--Fostina's Grief at their Departure--Her Uncle's Family--Fostina's Dream--Rineldo Aubrey.

[Illustration]

It was on the first morning in June in 184-, that the noble ship Essex set sail for the distant lands of California, with a large crew of enterprising young men on board f