t hard, and with
his help learned, therefore, a good deal more than was usual, in my
station of life. My mother was always particular about my speaking
and, what with that and the books, I suppose I talk better than
they generally do."

"And is your mother alive?"

"Yes, sir."

"But how came you to think of emigrating, at your age; when indeed,
you cannot have served out your full time?"

"That, sir," Reuben said gravely, "I cannot tell you. Some day,
perhaps, if you care to know, I may bring myself to do so. I may
say that it was a serious matter, but that I was really in no way
to blame, whatever people may think. My conscience is absolutely
clear, and yet I would rather that the story, which I left England
to escape, should not be known to anyone."

"I do not seek to know further, Reuben. I think I know enough of
you to be perfectly sure that you would do nothing that was wrong,
and I am perfectly willing to take your word in the matter.
However, I am glad that you have told me as much as you have. Your
early rearing, your mother's care, and the education you have had,
perfectly account for what seemed strange about you before. You
have no objection, I hope, to my repeating your story to Mr.
Hudson, who is as much interested in you as I am.

"And now another thing. I know that it is painful, to him, that one
to whom he is so indebted should be forward here in the forecastle,
instead of being in the cabin. He was afraid of hurting your
feelings, by speaking to you about it; but I know that it would be
a great relief and pleasure, to him and Mrs. Hudson, if you would
allow them to make an arrangement with the captain that, for the
remainder of the voyage, you should be a passenger."

"I am much obliged to them," Reuben said quietly; "but I could not
think of accepting such an offer. I am working my way out
independently, sir, and I owe no one anything. I am really enjoying
the passage, and so far there has been no hardship worth speaking
of. Even putting aside the fact that I should not like to accept an
obligation which would, to most people, look like a payment for the
service I was fortunate enough to be able to render to Mr. Hudson,
I should feel out of my element. I am very comfortable, and get on
very well with the men; while in the cabin I should feel strange,
and out of place."

"I don't think you would seem out of place anywhere, Reuben. No
one, from your manner and conversation, would judge you to