CHAPTER XII.

A Whaling Community.--Interest felt for absent Ones.--The first Intelligence from the Whaling Fleet.--California Mail.-- Further News from the Islands.--"Missing Ships."--No Report of the Citizen.--No Letters.--Fears as to her Safety.--When last spoken with.--Either lost or frozen up in the Arctic. --Supposed Fate of Officers and Crew.--Distressing Suspense. --Hoping against Hope.--Prayer answered.--The first Intelligence from the Citizen.--Joy in Families.--Captain Norton's Arrival at Home, and subsequently the Arrival of his Officers belonging to this Place. 214