the captain's questioning, he continued with his years at college, his
experiences as reporter and city editor. Without being conscious that
he was doing so, he gave his host a pretty full sketch of himself, his
story, and his ambitions.

"Mr. Pearson," said Captain Elisha, earnestly, "don't you worry about
that yarn of yours. If you'll take the advice of an old feller who knows
absolutely nothin' about such things, keep on rememberin' about your
Uncle Jim. He was a man, every inch of him, and a seaman, too. Put lots
of him into this hero of yours, and you won't go fur wrong. And when it
comes to handlin' a ship, why--well, if you WANT to come to me, I'll try
and help you out best I can."

Pearson was delighted.

"You WILL?" he cried. "Splendid! It's mighty good of you. May I spring
some of my stuff on you as I write it?"

"Sartin you may. Any time, I'll be tickled to death. I'll be tickled to
have you call, too; that is, if callin' on an old salt like me won't be
too tirin'."

The answer was emphatic and reassuring.

"Thank you," said Captain Elisha. "I'm much obliged. Come often, do.
I--well, the fact is, I'm likely to get sort of lonesome myself, I'm
afraid. Yes, I shouldn't wonder if I did."

He sighed, tossed away the stump of his cigar, and added,