“So, youngster, you’ve run away?” he said at length, in deep solemnity.
“Yes, sir,” replied Wilkins.
“And you think yourself a fine clever fellow, no doubt?”
“No, sir, I don’t,” said Watty, with much humility.
“I knew your father, boy,” continued the captain, assuming a softer and more serious tone, “and I think he is a good man.”
“He is, sir,” returned the boy promptly.
“Ay, and he is a kind man; he has been kind to you, I think.”
Watty hung his head.
“He has fed you, clothed you, educated you since you was a babby; nursed you, maybe, in sickness, and prayed for you, no doubt that God would make you a good, obedient and loving son.”
The boy’s head drooped still lower.