to whom I applied, could give me no name. The very
depths of the ocean seemed to have sent forth all their inhabitants to
watch our proceedings.

"I suppose that it is the shining copper on the ship's bottom attracts
them," said the old man. "They take it to be some big light, I
conclude." Whether he was right or not I have never since heard any one
give an opinion.

The first place at which we touched was Bridgetown, in the island of
Barbadoes. I thought the Bay of Carlisle, with the capital Bridgetown
built round its shores, and the fertile valleys, and rich fields of
sugar-cane, altogether a very lovely spot. The West India Islands are
divided into what are called the Windward and Leeward Islands. The
wind, it must be understood, blows for nine months of the year from the
east. The most eastern islands are therefore called the Windward
Islands, and those in the western group the Leeward Islands. Of all the
Caribbean Islands, Barbadoes is the most windward, and the Havannah the
most leeward. We had to land cargo and passengers, and to take in cargo
at several islands. We commenced, therefore, at the windward ones. In
that way I became acquainted with a considerable portion of the West
India Islands, and very beautiful places I saw on them. The _Montezuma_
was not long in getting a full cargo, and then she prepared to return
home. The last place at which we touched was Kingston in Jamaica. At
length, I thought to myself, I shall once more see Old England, and
satisfy my kind grandmother and Aunt Bretta that I am still alive. I
hope that I may leave this vessel without her being shipwrecked, as has
been the fate of every one I have yet been on board. Just as this idea
had crossed my mind the captain sent for me, and said that he was going
to leave Mr Merton in charge of a small schooner, which was to be
employed in running between the different islands to collect cargo to be
ready for the return of the ship, and that he wished me to remain.

"You will be soon out of your indentures, and if you behave well, as I
have no doubt you will, I will promise you a mate's berth," he added.

This was indeed more than I could have expected; and though I was
disappointed in not going home, I thanked the captain very much for his
good opinion of me and kind intentions, and accepted his offer. The
_Montezuma_ sailed for England, and I found myself forming one of the
crew of the _Grogo_ schooner. We had a very plea