"An excellent idea," said Mr. Shuffles.
"It is just the place for your son," replied Mr. Lowington.
"But it is for criminals."
"Very true."
"Robert is not a criminal."
"If he is not now, he soon will be, if he continues in his present course. If I had him on shipboard, I could make a man of him."
"Then I wish you had him on shipboard."
"Perhaps I may yet," replied the principal, with a smile. "I did not purchase the Academy with the intention of becoming a pedagogue, in the ordinary sense of the word. I have no intention of remaining in it."
"I hope you will."
"I have been thinking of fitting up a vessel like the school ship, that rich men's sons may have the benefit of such an institution without the necessity of committing a crime. I could do more for the boys in a month on board ship than I could in a year at Brockway."