"I have not had time to look up much about this town; but the ship's library contains books treating of all the cities in the world," replied Louis, who felt just as though he was floundering about in a sugar-bowl all the time.
"Before we come to another place I want to learn something about it, and I wish you would put me in the way of finding what I shall want."
"I will do so with the greatest pleasure if I happen to be on board of the ship; but I shall probably continue to be a deck-hand on the Maud for the next week," replied Louis; and he thought of the only disadvantage that came to his mind in being in another craft than the Guardian-Mother.
"You must have fine times on board of the Maud, Mr. Belgrave."
"We all have to do duty there as the officers and seamen do on board of the ship."
"I should like to sail some of the time in the little steamer, Mr. Belgrave," said Miss Blanche, looking her chaperon full in the face as if to ascertain the possibility of such a change.
"I don't believe you would be as comfortable there as you are on board of the ship," replied Louis, not a little moved by the suggestion of the young lady.
"I know I couldn't live on her; but I mean to ask Captain Ringgold to let me spend a day on board of her," persisted Blanche.
The young millionaire thought it would be absolutely delightful for him to take his trick at the wheel with Miss Blanche standing on the lee side, with the privilege of looking at her occasionally,—for he never permitted himself to stare at any lady,—and the idea invested the Maud with a new charm.
The sun had become very hot in the middle of the day, and they found the shade of the narrow streets very agreeable as they descended the rough thoroughfare to the lower town. The party were all complaining of the heat, and the commander sent the guide to procure an omnibus for them.