d the state of Philip's mind
with regard to Amine, readily consented. After a conversation of nearly
two hours, they were interrupted by the return of Mynheer Poots, who
darted out of the room the instant he perceived Father Seysen. Philip
called Amine, and having begged her as a favour to receive the priest's
visits, the good old man blessed them both and departed.

"You did not give him any money, Mr Philip?" said Mynheer Poots, when
Father Seysen had left the room.

"I did not," replied Philip; "I wish I had thought of it."

"No, no--it is better not--for money is better than what he can give
you; but he must not come here."

"Why not, father," replied Amine, "if Mr Philip wishes it? It is his
own house."

"O yes, if Mr Philip wishes it; but you know he is going away."

"Well, and suppose he is--why should not the Father come here? He shall
come here to see me."

"See you, my child!--what can he want with you? Well, then, if he
comes, I will not give him one stiver--and then he'll soon go away."

Philip had no opportunity of further converse with Amine; indeed he had
nothing more to say. In an hour he bade her farewell in presence of her
father, who would not leave them, hoping to obtain from Philip some
communication about the money which he was to leave behind him.

In two days Philip arrived at Amsterdam, and having made the necessary
inquiries, found that there was no chance of vessels sailing for the
East Indies for some months. The Dutch East India Company had long been
formed, and all private trading was at an end. The Company's vessels
left only at what was supposed to be the most favourable season for
rounding the Cape of Storms, as the Cape of Good Hope was designated by
the early adventurers. One of the ships which were to sail with the
next fleet was the Ter Schilling, a three-masted vessel, now laid up and
unrigged.

Philip found out the captain, and stated his wishes to sail with him, to
learn his profession as a seaman; the captain was pleased with his
appearance, and as Philip not only agreed to receive no wages during the
voyage, but to pay a premium as an apprentice learning his duty, he was
promised a berth on board as the second mate, to mess in the cabin; and
he was told that he should be informed whenever the vessel was to sail.
Philip having now done all that he could in obedience to his vow,
determined to return to the cottage; and once more he was in the company
of Amine.