Had I carried out my intention and gone as a sailor, a sailor I might have remained all my life.

It seems to me that as a soldier my chances are larger.

Not only shall I see plenty of fighting and adventure, which accords well with my spirit, but it seems to me--and a sergeant who has shown me much kindness says that it is so--that there are fair chances of advancement.
The soldiers are for the great part disorderly and ignorant men; and, as I mean to be steady and obedient so as to gain the goodwill of the officers, and as I have received a good education from my dear father, I hope in time to come to be regarded as one somewhat different from the common herd; and if I get an opportunity of distinguishing myself, and do not get killed by a Spanish bullet or pike thrust, or by the fevers which they say are not uncommon, then it is possible I may come back at the end of the war with some honor and credit, and, the sergeant said, may even obtain advancement to the rank of an officer.

Therefore my late master, having done me many good turns, may perhaps find that this last one--even though he intended it not--is the best of all.

Will you make my respects to him, dear cousin, and tell him that I feel no grudge or ill will against him?
Will you give my love to my Cousin Alice?
Tell her that I will bring her home some rare keepsakes from Spain should they fall in my way; and you know I will do the same for yourself, who have always been so good and kind to me." "The boy is not a bad boy," the mayor said, well pleased as he laid down the letter.