my
scruples should be his; indeed, I fear that I should have little
chance in persuading him, as he is so fond of a life of adventure. It
is natural in one so young. Age will sober him."

"Then you have no objection to his going on board of a privateer?"

"I would rather that he was in any other service, Sir; but as I cannot
control him, I must submit, if he insist upon following that
profession. He is a gallant, clever boy, and as soon as I can, I will
try to procure him a situation in a king's ship. At present he must go
to sea in some way or the other, and it were, perhaps, better that he
should be in good hands (such as Captain Levee's for instance) on
board of a privateer, than mix up with those who might demoralize him
more."

"Well, then, he shall have his choice," replied Mr. Trevannion. "He is
a smart lad, and will do you credit wherever he may be."

"If I may take the liberty to advise, Sir," replied I, "I think you
could not do better than to give the command of the Sparrow-Hawk to
the chief officer, Mr. James; he is a good seaman and a brave man,
and I have no doubt will acquit himself to your satisfaction."

"I was thinking the same; and as you recommend him, he shall take your
place. Now, as all this is settled, you may as well go on board and
make known that you have resigned the command. Tell Mr. James that he
is to take your place. Bring your clothes on shore, and you will find
apartments ready for you on your return, for in future you will of
course consider this house as your residence. I assure you that, now
that you do not leave me, I am almost glad that the affair is arranged
as it is. I wanted assistance, that is the fact, and I hold myself
fortunate that you are the party who has been selected. We shall meet
in the evening."

Mr. Trevannion then went away in the direction of his daughter's room,
instead of the counting-house as usual, and I quitted the house. I did
not go immediately down to the wharf to embark. I wanted to have a
short time for reflection, for I was much overpowered with Mr.
Trevannion's kindness, and the happy prospects before me. I walked out
in the country for some distance, deep in my own reflections, and I
must say that Miss Trevannion was too often interfering with my train
of thought.

I had of course no fixed ideas, but I more than once was weighing in
my mind whether I should not make known to them who I was, and how
superior in birth to what they imagined. Af