“I prefer you as you are, Frank,” responded Mr Meldrum; “and I’m sure so does Kate, eh?”
Yes,” said she shyly, and blushing as she looked up for an instant.
“Then keep as you are, my boy,”—continued her father—“and as soon as you are captain of a vessel of your own—and Mr McCarthy tells me you are quite competent to pass the Trinity-House examination for a first-mate’s certificate; why, you may come to me and claim Kate’s hand!”
“Is that a bargain?” asked Frank anxiously, looking from one to the other.
“It is,” replied Mr Meldrum, while Kate faintly whispered another “yes.”
“Then,” said Frank triumphantly, “she shall be my wife before another year goes over our heads; for, I can pass as soon as I go home for a first officer’s certificate, and get a ship to command immediately afterwards if I like. Look out for me to make my claim within that time, according to your promise!”
“And I guess I’m witness to that thaar agreement,” exclaimed Mr Lathrope, starting up.
The artful old fellow had been “playing ’possum,” as he termed it, all along; only waiting for the dénouement of the little drama before disclosing himself. However, he seemed so genuinely pleased with what had taken place that neither of the principal performers could be angry with him for listening.
“I’m downright real glad,” said he after a bit, congratulating them both and wringing poor Frank’s hand well nigh off in the exuberance of his delight. “Say, if yer don’t believe me, may I never eat another clam chowder agin—durn my boots if I ever will, thar!”