ter an hour passed in
building castles, I retraced my steps, passed through the town, and
going down to the wharf, waved my handkerchief for a boat, and was
soon on board. I then summoned the officers and men, told them that I
had resigned the command of the vessel, and that in future they were
to consider Mr. James as their captain. I packed up my clothes,
leaving many articles for my successor which were no longer of any use
to me, but which he would have been compelled to replace.

Philip I found was down in the cabin, and with him I had a long
conversation. He stated his wish to remain at sea, saying that he
preferred a privateer to a merchant vessel, and a king's ship to a
privateer. Not being old enough, or sufficient time at sea to be
eligible for a king's ship, I agreed that he should sail with Captain
Levee, as soon as he came back from his cruise. He had already sent in
a good prize. As soon as my clothes and other articles were put into
the boat, I wished them all farewell, and was cheered by the men as I
pulled on shore.

My effects were taken up to Mr. Trevannion's house by the seamen, to
whom I gave a gratuity, and I was met by Mr. Trevannion, who showed me
into a large and well-furnished bed-room, which he told me was in
future to be considered as my own. I passed away the afternoon in
arranging my clothes, and did not go down to the parlour till
supper-time, where I found Miss Trevannion, who congratulated me upon
my having changed my occupation to one more worthy of me. I made a
suitable reply, and we sat down to supper. Having described this first
great event in my life, I shall for the present conclude.

CHAPTER XIII.

After staying a year with him, Mr. Trevannion proposes
to take me into Partnership, but I decline the offer
from conscientious motives--Miss Trevannion treats me
with unmerited coldness--This and her Father's anger
make me resolve to quit the House--What I overhear and
see before my departure--The Ring.

You may now behold me in a very different position, my dear Madam;
instead of the laced hat and hanger at my side, imagine me in a plain
suit of gray with black buttons, and a pen behind my ear; instead of
walking the deck and balancing to the motion of the vessel, I am now
perched immoveably upon a high stool; instead of sweeping the horizon
with my telescope, or watching the straining and bending of the spars
aloft, I am now with my eyes incessan