for when a woman would
persuade, a man should be particularly guarded that he is not led into
error by a rash promise. I think, however, that we are both agreed
upon the point. I will therefore, come at once to what I wish you to
do. It is the intention of my father, in the course of a few days,
when you shall have accomplished your year of service, to offer to
take you into partnership; and I am certain it will be on liberal
terms. Now I wish you to refuse his offer unless he gives up
privateering."

"I will do so at all risks, and I am truly glad that I have your
encouragement for taking such a bold step."

"I tell you frankly that he will be very indignant. There is an
excitement about the privateering which has become almost necessary to
him, and he cares little about the remainder of his speculations. He
is so blind to the immorality to which it leads, that he does not
think it is an unlawful pursuit; if he did, I am sure that he would
abandon it. All my persuasion has been useless."

"And if a favourite and only daughter cannot prevail, what chance have
I, Miss Trevannion?"

"A better chance, Mr. Elrington; he is partial to me, but I am a
woman, and he looks upon my observations as a woman's weakness. The
objections raised by a man, a young man, and one who has so long been
actively engaged in the service, will, therefore, carry more weight;
besides, he has now become so accustomed to you, and has had so much
trouble taken off his hands, and, at the same time, has such implicit
confidence in you, that I do not think, if he finds that he has to
choose between your leaving him and his leaving off privateering, he
will hesitate in relinquishing the latter. You have, moreover, great
weight with him, Mr. Elrington; my father is fully aware of the deep
obligation he is under to your courage and self-devotion in the affair
of the Jacobite refugees. You will, therefore, succeed, if you are
firm; and, if you do succeed, you will have my gratitude, if that is
of any importance to you; my friendship you know you have already."

The entrance of Mr. Trevannion prevented my reply. We had been waiting
for his return from a walk, and dinner had been ready some time. "I
have just seen some of the men of the Arrow," said Mr. Trevannion,
taking off his hat and spencer, "and that detained me."

"Has Captain Levee arrived, then, Sir?" said I.

"No; but he has sent in a prize--of no great value--laden with light
wares. The me