But thicker and thicker came the snow ; finally the kitchen light was hidden in it . For a moment Mary Margaret 's heart sank in despair ; the next it gave a joyful bound , for , turning , she saw the dark tower of the lighthouse directly behind her . By the aid of her lantern she rowed to the landing , sprang out and made her boat fast . A minute later she was in the lighthouse kitchen . The door leading to the tower stairs was open and at the foot of the stairs lay Uncle George , limp and white . `` Oh , Uncle George , '' gasped Mary Margaret , `` what is the matter ? What has happened ? '' `` Mary Margaret ! Thank God ! I was just praying to Him to send somebody to ` tend the light . Who 's with you ? '' `` Nobody ... I got frightened because there was no light and I rowed over . Mother and Uncle Martin are away . '' `` You do n't mean to say you rowed yourself over here alone in the dark and snow ! Well , you are the pluckiest little girl about this harbour ! It 's a mercy I 've showed you how to manage the light . Run up and start it at once . Do n't mind about me . I tumbled down those pesky stairs like the awkward old fool I am and I 've broke my leg and hurt my back so bad I ca n't crawl an inch . I 've been lying here for three mortal hours and they 've seemed like three years .
Hurry XXXXX the light , Mary Margaret . ''
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