“No, sir.”
“In England, we plant them in rows, three feet apart, and as straight as an arrow. They grow seven or eight feet high, and make a nice place for the children to play. I was cutting the sallies with a large knife, as sharp as a razor. My little children, with their cousins, who had come to see them, were playing hide-and-seek among the rows, when Charlie ran in the way of my knife, and I cut a dreadful gash in his cheek, that made that scar. And now I will leave you, and make my preparations for the voyage.”
“Not till you have taken dinner with us,” said the captain; “and, Mr. Bell, I expect you to make the vessel your home, and sleep here whenever it suits your convenience.”
“Thank you, captain. My quarters on shore are not so spacious or elegant that I should feel inclined to refuse so handsome and hearty an offer.”
When the meal was concluded, Mr. Bell went on shore.
“Only see,” said Walter, looking after him, as he went up the pier, “how quick he steps, and how much straighter he is.”
“There’s a new heart in him,” said the captain. “He’s something to live for and look forward to now. In a week’s time he’ll be another man. As far as I am concerned, I had rather carry him home, than the richest cargo. And now, Mr. Griffin, run up and tell the good news to Ned.”