“And the ship’s going up the Baltic, and then up the Mediterranean.”

“Yes, Clyde.”

“And I want to go in her.”

“You, Clyde!”

“Yes, that’s what I say.”

“And be a sailor?”

“I always told you I wanted to be a sailor. Didn’t that head master, or whatever he is, say it would do me good to go to sea?”

“Perhaps he did, but I can’t go with you, my dear.”

“I don’t want you to go with me. I’m not a baby!” protested the indignant youth.

“But you are my only son, dear.”