"Aye," he replied, with a hearty laugh; "e'en though I rode the farmer's mare to death. It beats me to think how I kept in the saddle that day, and I've fallen thrice on my way hither; yet 'tis strange what a man will do when he's put to it. But can you persuade your uncle to let you ride over to Poole and see the Golden Hope ere we sail? We weigh on Saturday morn, for 'tis, as you know, ill luck to leave port on a Friday."
I shook my head sorrowfully.
"I fear he'll not think of it," I replied. "But, Captain Jeremy, how I wish I were off with you!"
"'Tis not to be thought of, lad. Adventuring in the Indies is no fit business for you. I've spun you yarns times without number, but you've not heard of the dark side of a seaman's life. No, no, Clifford; make the best of things and bide at home, and I'll do my best for you and me."
"But, Captain----"
"No buts, lad; your duty lies at home. Now, say no more on 't, though I would you could see the Golden Hope ere she leaves Poole Harbour. Well, well, the best of friends must say farewell, and so 'tis with us. Please Heaven another couple o' years will see us home once more with the treasure; so good-bye, Clifford."
"Farewell, Captain Jeremy, and God be with you!"
Awkwardly the seaman scrambled into the saddle, urged his nag into a trot, and set off along the Christchurch Road, not daring to look round for fear of losing his seat. I watched him till his burly figure disappeared from view, then slowly I made my way homewards.
"Why have you tarried on your errand, sirrah?" demanded my uncle, as I placed the pile of heavy books on the table. "Hast entered into worldly and unbecoming conversation with that seafaring man who, with many strange oaths on his lips, hath troubled me with his presence? To your room, sir! Supperless you shall go; but before retiring, read, mark, and learn the beautiful discourse on procrastination as set forth in this book of godly sermons. To-morrow I'll speak further on this matter."
On the morrow he did more than speak, being a too zealous exponent of King Solomon for my peace of mind; and, smarting under the treatment I had endured, I determined to run away and join, by hook or by crook, the good ship Golden Hope.