CHAPTER X.
PAUL AND JOHN ARE VERY MUCH EXCITED.
Paul was overwhelmed with astonishment and delight at this unexpected declaration. His eyes filled with tears, and he could not utter a word to express the gratitude that filled his heart.
"Yes, Paul, you shall hereafter be the skipper of the Fawn," repeated Captain Littleton.
"And I shall be first mate!" exclaimed John, jumping up and clapping his hands with rapture.
"Yes, and you shall be first mate, John; for I have not forgotten that a part of my debt of gratitude for the rescue of my daughter is in your favor, my fine fellow. The Fawn shall be owned between you."
"Thank you, sir," replied John; "but it was Paul that saved Carrie."
"If you had not handled the old boat well, Paul could not have saved her. You are fairly entitled to a share of the honor of that noble exploit."
"But, Captain Littleton," interposed Paul, "I do not want to be paid for what I did. It was only my duty to save Carrie."