“But he is a brave youth,” said Sir Richard, in flattering tones.
“Is he,” laughed Redgill; “I have often thought he was a very rash one.”
“His best friends say the same; but it will all wear off with age and experience.”
“Perhaps so, Sir Richard; but it strikes me very forcibly he will never live to be any very great age,” said Redgill, very slowly and with great emphasis.
“Why not?” said the old knight, quickly.
“He is too passionate. Had it not been for my own good temper, and the respect I have for you, I should have publicly horsewhipped him for his rudeness to me on more than one occasion.”
“But you are older than he is, Phillip,” sternly said Sir Richard; “you must remember that.”
“True; but no more of that. I have come from London expressly to inform you that my father, through his influence with the king’s government, has managed to get a midshipman’s commission for Ned, this great favourite of yours. If you like to consent, he can join his ship at once; it lies at Portsmouth, ready to sail.”
“It was very kind of your father, truly; but I have not made up my mind about it.”
“Not made up your mind? Why, when last I was down here, you said it would be the very best thing that could be done for him.”