air. Ned thought at once, from the look he had at
his countenance, that he should like him. Lieutenant Meadows introduced
the boys to each other, and they shook hands, Charley saying that he
should be very glad to be of any service to his future messmate.

Ned, after exchanging a few words, wished his new friends good-bye, and
hurried homewards, well pleased at the thoughts of having a companion on
his journey who would put him up to what he would have to do on board
ship. This would make amends for his disappointment at not being able
to accompany Mr Hanson; Ned had not then learned to hold in any
especial awe the first lieutenant of a man-of-war, or he might greatly
have preferred the society of the midshipman to that of his superior
officer.

"I would rather you had been able to accompany Hanson," observed his
uncle, when Ned made his report. "This youngster may be a very steady
fellow, and do his best to help you, or he may be much the contrary and
try to lead you into all sorts of mischief; we cannot always judge by
the outside appearance. No, I won't risk it, I'll go with you and take
charge of you both; his father won't object to that. I shall save
Hanson the trouble of getting your outfit--he'll have quite enough to
do--and I'll introduce you to your commander. Yes, yes, that will be
the best plan."

In the course of the forenoon Lieutenant Meadows and his son Charley
paid their promised visit to Triton Cottage. The two old shipmates soon
recognised each other, and were well pleased with the anticipation of
having long yarns together about former days. The visitors were
introduced to Aunt Sally and Mary.

The arrangements for the journey were soon concluded, for Mr Meadows,
knowing what youngsters are made of, was happy to place his son in
charge of a brother officer, who would look after him until he had
joined his new ship.

While Ned was sent out of the room with a message to Jane and Tom to get
luncheon ready, Mary, though somewhat timidly, managed to get near
Charley Meadows.

"I want you to be kind to Ned, to take good care of him," she whispered.
"You do not know what a good boy he is; and we are very, very sorry for
him to go away, though we try to look cheerful, as he wants to become a
sailor, and we do not like to prevent him."

"Of course, young lady, for your sake I'll take as much care of him as I
can," answered Charley, looking down at Mary's sweet face, as she raised
it with an i