"I am, sir," replied Alwyn. "It's a life afloat."
"You would prefer the Navy, I take it?"
"Yes, sir; but that is——". He broke off, unable to express his thoughts.
"Out of the question, eh?" added the Commodore. "I think not. How would a commission in the Australian Navy appeal to you?"
Burgoyne's eyes sparkled.
"If it could be managed, sir," he replied.
"I think it can be," said the Commodore. "We'll leave it at that for the present. I can offer you a passage back to Sydney, and I think you will do well to accept."
"Then you think there is a chance, sir?"
"Most certainly. Apart from the valuable services you have rendered to the expedition, the fact that you have been trained for the British Navy is in your favour."
Burgoyne thanked the Commodore and withdrew, feeling as if he were walking on air. If the "stunt" came off he would be once more an officer of the Royal Navy, although in a branch that displays on its ensign the Southern Cross.