ur grand old Psalms, our free and joyous loyal ship-songs, the
orchestra of young throats being directed with all gravity by an
urchin--one of themselves--a miniature "Costa" full of pound-cake, and
with his Jersey pockets bulged out too, but tuneful enough after his tea.
The man's heart that is not softened, gladdened, and strung to effort for
these little fellows by scenes like this I do not covet.

The captain of the 'Chichester' says:--

"I receive very pleasing letters from boys who have left. I send you
a copy of the last, just arrived, which I think is as powerful an
appeal in our behalf as any that could be penned."

"Ship '---,' off the Isle of Wight.

"PLEASE SIR,--I take the pleasure of writing these few lines to you,
hoping to find you in good health, as we are. We are getting on very
well, we are now off the Isle of Wight. Sir, we like our ship very
well, and I hope we shall have a good character when we come home. I
hope all the Instructors are well.

"Give my respects to Lady Alston, and tell her where we are. We are
having very good weather, and I haven't forgot my Bible. C. D. sends
his respects to you. Please sir, will you give my love to Frances.
Sir, you must excuse me for not writing more. I haven't had time.
Sir, if I don't see you any more in this world, I hope I shall Above.
Give my respects to Mr. and Mrs. Macarthy.

"No more at present from your obedient servants,

"A. B. and C. D.

"God be merciful to us as sinners."

And while we speak more of the three ships already named, because they
are nearest, and so are most seen by us Londoners, remember there are
other stout Britons at Hull, sturdy boys in the Mersey, sea-urchins in
the Clyde, and good sailor-hearts in Ireland and in Welshmen's breasts,
and there are training ships for boys in all these and other places,
{297} so that all may join who wish to help in England's future, which
will much depend on the next generation of British seamen.

It will be a happy sight, and one by no means out of our reach to
witness, when the gentlemen taught on the 'Worcester,' and the mates from
the 'Chichester,' and the crew from the 'Cornwall,' shall man the
largest, fastest vessel on the sea.

The 'Chichester' boys make a very appreciative audience when a visitor
addresses them. Then they sing their hearty thanks with steady voices,
and in stanzas of original poetr