n the encomiums
upon his meritorious conduct.

Newton presented himself to the Court of Directors, who confirmed his
rank, and promised him the command of the first ship which was brought
forward, with flattering commendations for his gallantry in protecting
property of so much value. Newton took his heave of the august
_Leaden-hall_ board, and hastened to his uncle's house. The door was
opened by a servant who did not know him: Newton passed him, and ran up
to the drawing-room, where he found Amber in company with William
Aveleyn, who was reading to her the despatch containing the account of
the action with Surcoeuf.

Amber _sprung_ into his arms. She had grown into a tall girl of nearly
fifteen, budding into womanhood and beauty; promising perfection,
although not yet attained to it. William Aveleyn was also nearly half a
foot taller; and a blush which suffused his handsome face at being
surprised alone with Amber, intimated that the feelings of a man were
superseding those of boyhood.

"Where is my mother?" inquired Newton.

"She is not at home, dear Newton," replied Amber; "she walked out with
your father. They are both well."

"And my uncle?"

"Quite well, and most anxious to see you. He talks of nobody but you,
and of nothing but your actions, which we were just reading about when
you came in. Pray _Captain_ Newton, may I inquire after your French
friends? What has become of them?"

"They are at Sablonniere's hotel. Miss Amber; they have obtained their
parole at the Alien-office."

The conversation was interrupted by the return of Newton's father and
mother, and shortly afterward Mr John Forster made his appearance.
After the first greeting and congratulations were over--

"Well, Newton," observed Nicholas, "so you beat off a pirate, I hear."

"No, my dear father, we boarded one."

"Ah! very true; I recollect--and you killed Surcoeuf."

"No, father, only beat him off."

"So it was; I recollect now.--Brother John, isn't it almost
dinner-time?"

"Yes, brother Nicholas, it is; and I'm not sorry for it. Mr William
Aveleyn, perhaps you'd like to wash your hands? A lad's paws are never
the worse for a little clean water."

William Aveleyn blushed: his dignity was hurt: but he had lately been
very intimate at Mr Forster's, and he therefore walked out to comply
with the recommendation.

"Well, brother Nicholas, what have you been doing all day?"

"Doing all day, brother? really, I don't e