That you may appear as my son, and command the respect of all on board.
That would be deception, Captain.
The Captain felt chagrined. He had not learned the real character of the boy in which he had taken such an interest. He saw at a flash that Walter did not understand his meaning. He meant the offer as a feeler, to see if Walter would consent to his adoption and take his name. He scarcely knew how to extricate himself from the difficulty he had placed himself in by proposing to Walter to change his name. The words “That would be deception, Captain,” still rang in his ears, and raised the boy in his estimation.
Webb noticed the Captain’s embarrassment and went to his relief.
Walter, I think you had better accept the Captain’s proposition.
Which one of them? he asked excitedly. To go on board of the ship, or change my name?
To go on board the ship as the guest of Captain Davis and wife. Say no more about the name or position at present Let time determine that.
Father, said Walter addressing Webb, I rely on you in this matter. You command and I’ll obey.
I command nothing. I merely advise. You are your own master now, and have a right to choose for yourself. Things have changed since we met on the Callicoon. Then you was a stripling of a boy, without home, parents or shelter. But now you are a man, noble, generous and good. Go with Captain Davis, and be to him what you have been to me—a noble, generous son.
Father! exclaimed Walter passionately, am I to you what your words imply?