The Pirate, and The Three Cutters

by Frederick Marryat

'You said that you did not like it'

Mrs. Lascelles felt the force of the compliment. 'You said just now that you hated the name of Pickersgill: why do you call yourself so?'

'It was my smuggling name, Mrs. Lascelles.'

'And now that you have left off smuggling, pray what may be the name we are to call you by?'

'I cannot resume it till I have not only left this vessel, but shaken hands with, and bid farewell to, my companions; and by that time, Mrs. Lascelles, I shall be away from you.'

'But I've a great curiosity to know it; and a lady's curiosity must be gratified. You must call upon me some day, and tell it me. Here is my address.'

Pickersgill received the card with a low bow: and Lord B. coming on deck, Mrs. Lascelles hastened to meet him.

'Mrs. Lascelles,' said Pickersgill, 'before we part, allow me to observe, that it is you who have induced me to give up my profession——'