"He will go home, of course, after receiving his share of the pirates' treasure."
"But he hasn't a relative in the world, and it seems too bad for him to go on board the Mary Walker now that he has money enough to pay for a good education."
Mr. Vandyne questioned the young fisherman at great length, and then he said:
"You will be able to do as you choose, because the accidental cruise has made all hands moderately wealthy; therefore I am not offering anything like charity when I say you can live with Harry until some permanent arrangement is made. We will have a legal guardian appointed, that the money shall not be squandered, and you need not feel much anxiety as to the future until the time comes when you decide upon an occupation."
Jim tried to thank Mr. Vandyne, but failed signally; and to hide his confusion he scuttled off to the forecastle, where he told Bob the good news, concluding by saying:
"I'm through bein' rope's-ended by a crew of fishermen whenever they feel a little grouty, an' you jes' bet I'll study hard, now I've got a chance. But how will I ever see you ag'in?"
"Why, bless you, lad, I'm goin' to stay close 'round there—sorter in the same family. Mr. Vandyne is a ship-owner, an' has plenty of work for an old shell-back like me. Joe an' I have both signed with him, an' whenever you want to know anything what can't be found in books, jes' shape a course for the docks an' ask Bob Brace."