"I think I can. I may say I am sure I can. The captain asked me yesterday to look out for a bright youth to help with the cargo, assist the purser, and be a sort of cabin assistant. I had no one in mind then, but after our meeting last night, when you were of such service to me, and I heard you say you wanted a job, I at once thought of this place. I saw the captain this morning, and he has practically engaged you—that is, if you want the berth, and he is satisfied with you when he sees you. The last item I know will be all right. And now it is for you to say whether you want the place."
"Want it? Of course I want it! I can't tell you how much obliged I am to you for this! I——"
"Now—now—don't get excited over it," cautioned Mr. Weatherby. "If you're going to be a pilot you must learn to keep cool. Shall I tell Captain Marshall you'll take the place?"
"Yes, and be glad to."
"Not quite so fast. Why don't you ask me what the wages are, and how long you'll have to work?"
"That's so. I didn't think of that. But I don't mind how long I have to work. It can't be much longer than I have to work now, and I get very little for it."
"Then I guess you will be satisfied with the hours and the wages paid aboard the Jessie Drew. When can you come?"
"Any time. I am not regularly hired at the dock."
"Then perhaps you had better stop now, go home and get ready. We will sail early to-morrow. Bring along a change of clothes, for it often happens you'll get wet through in a storm, or when the lake is rough."
"I'm afraid I can't do that," said Nat slowly, as a change came over his face.