“If you had forty only sons, it would be all the same to me. I say I want to go in this ship, and be a sailor.”
Mrs. Blacklock was appalled, and was sorely disturbed by the announcement of her son. The young gentleman insisted that he should be entered at once as a member of the ship’s company. He suggested to his anxious mother that she could travel by land while he went by sea, and that she could see him every time the ship went into port. The lady appeared to see no alternative, but evidently felt compelled to yield to her son’s demand. It was plain enough, even to a casual observer, that Clyde was the head of the family. Mrs. Blacklock promised to speak to the principal, but she hoped he would not be able to take her son. Before she had an opportunity to make the application, the Orlando’s bell rang for her passengers to return. The sound seemed to be a relief to the lady; but Mr. Clyde put his foot down just there, and upset all her hopes.
“Come, Clyde; the Orlando is ready to go,” said she.
“Let her go,” replied the hopeful son.
“But we must go on board.”
“You may go. I’m off to sea in this ship.”
“Not now, my dear,” pleaded Mrs. Blacklock.
“Now’s the time. If you don’t speak to that head master yourself, I shall do so.”
“Not now, my dearest boy. This ship is going to Christiania, and we will speak to the gentleman on the subject when she arrives. Come, Clyde; the boat is waiting for us, and all the other passengers have gone.”
“You can’t fool me, mother. I’m going to sea now. I like this ship, and I rather like those swells of officers.”