“Haven’t you been to see your mother since you left home three years ago?” Harry inquired.
“Of course I have,” said Jack, promptly. “I always go to see her as soon as I get home from a voyage. Poor mother! She was looking pale and thin when I saw her three weeks ago. I am sure she has repented marrying, but she won’t own up. When I’m a man——”
“Well, Jack; when you’re a man?”
“I’ll see that she has a better time, and if old Bannock don’t like it he can clear out. I think he will anyway.”
“Clear out?”
“Yes; he will have spent all the property by that time, and when that is done, he won’t make much objection to going away. Then I will take care of mother, and see that she does not suffer for anything.”
“You are right, Jack. I sympathize with you. I hope you’ll succeed. I only wish I had a mother to look out for,” and Harry’s fine face wore an expression of sadness. “But there’s one thing I can’t help saying, though I don’t want to discourage you.”
“What is that, Harry?”
“I don’t see how you are going to lay up much money in going before the mast. Your pay must be small.”
“It is. I only earn ten dollars a month,” replied Jack.