"We intend to sail for New York next Saturday," said Harry. "That is as far as we have got."
"If you were willing to stay in Melbourne, I would give you a place in my counting-room."
"Thank you, sir, but I prefer to live in America."
"Then I will give you a letter to my nephew and business correspondent in New York. He will further any business views you may have."
"Thank you, sir."
"And I will do the same for your friend, if he desires."
"Thank you, sir," said Jack, "but I mean to keep on as a sailor; I hope some day to be a captain."
"I will give you a place on one of our ships, and you shall be promoted as rapidly as you are qualified to rise."
Jack looked gratified, for he knew the value of so powerful a friend.
Late in the evening the boys took leave of the hospitable merchant, and three days afterward they embarked for New York.