"But why should we be introduced to the 'women with nephews and nieces?'"
"Because it is eminently proper and right that American young gentlemen should be acquainted with finance. The boats are coming, and I am like that shed on the beach."
"I don't see it."
"Yes—Finnish shed. Come, tumble down the hatchway," said Scott, as he led the way to the steerage.
Mr. Mapps, the instructor in geography and history, was already at his post, which post was the foremast of the ship, whereon was hung a large map of Finland, drawn by himself on the back side of another map, with black paint and a marking brush; for he had not been able to find a printed one on a large scale. The students from the consorts soon appeared, and a few raps with the professor's pointer procured silence.
"Where are we now, young gentlemen?" he began.
"Here, sir," responded Scott.
"A little more definitely, if you please."
"Eastern hemisphere, sir," added Scott.
"Excellent; but couldn't you venture to come a little nearer to the point."