THE thought that came instantly to the mind of Andrew, when his father's resolution to send him to sea was mentioned, was the thought of Emily Winters.

For the sake of spending daily a few quickly passing minutes with her, he had subjected himself to reprimand, punishment and disgrace.

And his mind instantly reacted against the idea of a separation such as was now threatened.

Still he was too proud and stubborn to think for a moment of retracing any of the wrong steps he had made.

Nothing but the tender appeal of his mother, whom he did indeed love, amid all his perverseness, could have subdued him.