"That's it, my boy. Stick to that. What did I hear about your plan to go into Parliament? Do you mean it?"
"If I have good luck, sir."
"A great career, my lad, and you should do well. I am so glad you've given up the idea of being a book-worm. Of course your scholarship will come handy to you in Parliament, so perhaps you've been wise to stick to your books. But the country wants men who can do things."
"I mean to do them too, sir."
"Trelawney blood," laughed the old man. "Well, there's no reason in the world why you shouldn't do big things. I always had hoped that Roger would go into Parliament; indeed, he was as good as nominated for St. Ia. But he was killed in the Boer War, poor fellow. A fine lad too, as fine a lad as ever stepped in shoeleather," and his eyes became moist. "Thank God we are at peace now!" he added.
"You are coming back with me to Penwennack?" he went on, when presently the party were leaving the Club House.
"I'd love to, sir, but I can't. I must get back. I promised mother."
"Ah well, stick to your mother. A lad who keeps his promise to his mother seldom goes wrong. But come up to dinner to-morrow night, and bring your mother with you."
"You may depend on me," cried Bob. "Thanks very much, Admiral, we shall be delighted."
"Bob," said Nancy, "you've done more to soften dad to-day, and to prepare the way for me, than if you had got ten fellowships. He loves a plucky fight, and hates a coward."