himself, so I made up my mind to complain for him, for I
was sure you would not allow Mr Ashurst to behave in that way if you
knew it."

"Certainly not, my lad," answered the lieutenant, who, not standing on
his dignity or resenting the unusual conduct of a boy for presuming to
bring a complaint against a midshipman, respected Nat for his boldness
and eagerness to protect his friend. "Send Mr Hartley aft to me, but
do not let Mr Ashurst discover that you have complained of him."

Nat harried forward. As soon as he could find Owen, without saying what
he had done, he told him that Mr Leigh wished to speak with him. Owen
went aft, not knowing what the lieutenant could have to say.

"Hartley," said Mr Leigh, "you appear to be superior to the other boys.
In what capacity were you serving on board the ship in which you were
cast away?"

Owen told him that he had come out as a passenger, but that,
understanding mathematics and the principles of navigation, he had
endeavoured to perfect himself in the science, as also to gain a
knowledge of seamanship, although he had no intention of becoming a
sailor, considering himself bound to return to the office in which he
had been employed. Mr Leigh then questioned him, and learned more
about his history.

"Had Captain Stanhope known this he would, I think, very likely, had you
wished to enter the navy, have placed you on the quarter-deck. I
cannot, of course, alter your rating now, but I will appoint you to act
as my clerk, and I will let Mr Stewart and Mr Ashurst know that you
are to mess with us, and that they are to treat you as a brother
officer."

Owen could scarcely believe his senses when he heard this. How would
Ashurst now behave to him? He himself would not of course refer to the
treatment he had received from the hands of the midshipman, but would
act as if nothing unpleasant had occurred between them. Mr Stewart,
the master's mate, who was an amiable young man, had always treated him
kindly, and would, he was sure, do so now.

It was nearly the dinner hour. "You will come at once into the cabin,"
said Mr Leigh; "there is no reason for delay."

Owen made his way forward, and told Nat what had happened.

Nat, who pretended to look very much surprised, said he was very glad to
hear of Owen's good fortune. "But it's only your due," he added, "and
please for the future remember that you are now in the midshipmen's
berth, and a gentleman, that I am only a sh