"One of the lieutenants!" exclaimed Christy. "Of course you know all about handling a ship or a steamer."
"I can't say I do. In fact, I never went on the sea till I went to Nassau with my father," replied Percy candidly. "But I can soon learn all about it."
"A nice lieutenant you will make! Why don't you apply for the position of commander of her?"
"I am willing to take a subordinate position till I learn something about the business."
"That's right! Be humble at first, and you will be great afterwards."
"I should have been willing to go into the army as a captain, or even as a lieutenant; but I couldn't quite stand it to go in as a common soldier, while my brother made a beginning as a major."
"I think I will not go any farther, Mr. Percy," said Christy, as he halted near the gate.
"Oh, don't leave me now, Mr. Pierson! We are half way to my father's house," Percy objected.
"I can't go any farther, for I may be wanted."
"You will be safe enough, Mr. Pierson, My mother is at home, and she will be glad to see you."