Schmidt went boldly up to him.

"Captain Thompson," said he, "this is the man I spoke to you about this morning to take my place." "This the man ?" said the captain, abruptly.

"Why, this is a boy! He's lame, too, and looks sickly.

He will never do for me!" It was time for me to speak; and I made a bold effort to overcome my diffidence.

"Sir," said I, "a few months ago I had the misfortune to break my leg in Liverpool, and was sent home by the American consul.