on't much fancy a standing bed-place, it's so large, and I
feel so cold of my sides. Nothing like a hammock, after all. Good
night, Mr Simple."

"Good night. Swinburne."

Our orders were to proceed with all _possible_ despatch; and O'Brien
carried on day and night, generally remaining up himself till one or two
o'clock in the morning. We had very favourable weather, and in a little
more than a month we passed the Lizard. The wind being fair, we passed
Plymouth, ran up Channel, and anchored at Spithead.

After calling upon the admiral, O'Brien set off for town with his
despatches, and left me in command of the ship. In three days, I
received a letter from him, informing me that he had seen the First
Lord, who had asked him a great many questions concerning the station he
had quitted; that he had also complimented O'Brien on his services. "On
that hint I spake," continued O'Brien; "I ventured to insinuate to his
lordship, that I had hoped that I had earned my promotion; and as there
is nothing like _quartering on the enemy_, I observed that I had not
applied to Lord Privilege, as I considered my services would have been
sufficient, without any application on his part. His lordship returned
a very gracious answer; said that my Lord Privilege was a great ally of
his and very friendly to the Government; and inquired when I was going
to see him. I replied, that I certainly should not pay my respects to
his lordship at present, unless there was occasion for it, as I must
take a more favourable opportunity. So I hope that good may come from
the great lord's error, which of course I shall not correct, as I feel I
deserve my promotion--and you know, Peter, if you can't gain it by
_hook_, you must by _crook_." He then concluded his letter; but there
was a postscript as follows:--

"Wish me joy, my dear Peter. I have this moment received a letter from
the private secretary, to say that I am _posted_ and appointed to the
_Semiramis_ frigate, about to set sail for the East Indies. She is all
ready to start; and now I must try and get you with me, of which I have
no doubt; as, although her officers have been long appointed, there will
be little difficulty of success, when I mention your relationship to
Lord Privilege, and while they remain in error as to his taking an
interest in my behalf."

I sincerely rejoiced at O'Brien's good fortune. His promotion I had
considered certain, as his services had entitled him to i