"That will never do either. Now, your hermit Daddy told me that he had gold, and that all was yours. I have not very much gold, but, lad, I have influence, much influence, and it is into the Royal Navy you must go as a brave cadet, and if you keep up your self-respect and never give way to temptations, I feel certain your career will be a brilliant one. What do you say?"
There was a big lump in Creggan's throat, and as he gazed across the Minch he could see his dear island home only through a mist of tears.
But he turned bravely round and said to Nugent:
"Thank you, sir; I will go into the navy and try to do my duty."
"Well, that is spoken right manfully. Leave all the rest to me. All you have got to do is to continue your studies; but take plenty of open air exercise as well, for in the service they like strong hardy boys."
Then he shook hands with Creggan and rose to go.
"We will be three weeks longer in this wild and romantic island, and during that time you'll be our guide, won't you?"
"That I will, sir," said Creggan, his eyes all in a sparkle now. "I'll show you everything, and Matty can always ride on the Shetland pony. Can't she?"
"You young rascal," replied Mr. Nugent laughing. "I believe you have fallen in love with my little Matty!"
Creggan blushed, but spoke out straightforwardly.