"I was never on a ship in my life," said Jim, frightened at the thought of the perils of the sea.
"That don't make any difference: you wouldn't have to serve as a sailor, but as a sort of a cabin-boy; and not exactly that, either. I am the owner of the boat, and want a clerk--a boy who can write letters, keep my accounts, and make himself generally useful. I like your looks, and you impress me as a boy of education."
"I think I could do all you ask; but where does your vessel sail?"
"Oh, she ain't a foreign ship, only a small schooner, engaged in the coasting-trade down along the Jersey shore, sometimes going as far as the capes, and occasionally making a trip up the Hudson. As navigation has closed on the river, we sha'n't go up there before Spring."
"I think I would like the job," said Jim, who felt as if the vision shown by Aladdin's lamp was opening before him. "What pay will you give if I suit you?"
"I am willing to pay well for the boy. It will be twenty dollars a week and found"---
"What!" exclaimed the astounded Jim, "did you say twenty dollars a week?"
"That's just what I said. I'm one of those who are willing to pay well for what they want."
"I'll take the situation; when do you want me to go?"
"As soon as possible--what do you say for to-morrow?"