The strange black man seemed to be overcome with joy when the
Doctor appeared and shook him warmly by the hand.

"News reached me," he said, "that you were about to sail upon a
voyage. I hastened to see you before your departure. I am
sublimely ecstasied that I did not miss you."

"You very nearly did miss us," said the Doctor. "As it happened,
we were delayed somewhat in getting the necessary number of men
to sail our boat. If it hadn't been for that, we would have been
gone three days ago."

"How many men does your ship's company yet require?" asked Bumpo.

"Only one," said the Doctor--"But it is so hard to find the right
one."

"Methinks I detect something of the finger of Destination in
this," said Bumpo. "How would I do?"

"Splendidly," said the Doctor. "But what about your studies? You
can't very well just go off and leave your university career to
take care of itself, you know."

"I need a holiday," said Bumpo. "Even had I not gone with you, I
intended at the end of this term to take a three-months'
absconsion--But besides, I shall not be neglecting my edification
if I accompany you. Before I left Jolliginki my august father,
the King, told me to be sure and travel plenty. You are a man of
great studiosity. To see the world in your company is an