no
particular meaning; the martial music of bands playing apparently for
no other reason than just because they wanted to,--all this made up a
wonder-world for Eric in which he found a great deal of delight.

There was just one cloud upon his happiness. Among his many pets at
Oakdene his special favourite was a splendid mastiff that the squire
had given him as a birthday present two years before. Prince was a
superb animal, and devoted to his young master. No sooner had it been
settled that Eric should go out to his father than the boy at once
asked if his dog might not go with him. Major Maunsell had no
objection himself, but feared that the captain of the _Francis_ would
not hear of it. However, he thought that Eric might bring the dog up
to Chatham, and then if the captain would not let him on board he could
be sent back to Oakdene.

Prince accordingly accompanied him, and a place having been found for
him with a friend of the major's, his master had no peace of mind until
the question was settled. Some days passed before he got a chance to
see Captain Reefwell, who was, of course, extremely busy; but at last
he managed to catch him one day just after lunch, when he seemed in a
pretty good humour, and without wasting time preferred his request,
trembling with eager hope as he did so. The gruff old sailor at first
bluntly refused him; but Eric bravely returning to the charge, his kind
heart was moved to the extent of making him say,--

"Well, let me have a look at your dog, anyway."

Hoping for the best, Eric ran off and returned with Prince. Captain
Reefwell scanned the noble animal critically, and stretched out his
hand to pat him, whereupon the mastiff gravely lifted his right paw and
placed it in the captain's horny palm.

"Shiver my timbers! but the dog's got good manners," said the captain
in surprise. "Did you teach him that?" turning to Eric.

"Yes, sir," replied Eric proudly; "and he can do other things too."
And he proceeded to put the big dog through a number of tricks which
pleased the old sailor so much that finally he said, with a smile,--

"All right, my lad. You may bring your dog on board. But, mind you,
he comes before the mast. He's not a cabin passenger."

"Oh, thank you, sir! thank you, sir!" cried Eric joyfully.--"I won't
let you in the cabin, will I, Prince? Isn't it splendid? You're to
come with me after all." And he hugged the mastiff as though he had
been his own broth