But Marshall Elliott soon proved his legitimate claim to membership in the household of Joseph.
He was a witty, intelligent, well-read man, rivalling Captain Jim himself in the knack of telling a good story.

They were all glad when he agreed to watch the old year out with them.
Captain Jim's small nephew Joe had come down to spend New Year's with his great-uncle, and had fallen asleep on the sofa with the First Mate curled up in a huge golden ball at his feet.
"Ain't he a dear little man ?" said Captain Jim gloatingly.

"I do love to watch a little child asleep, Mistress Blythe.

It's the most beautiful sight in the world, I reckon.

Joe does love to get down here for a night, because I have him sleep with me.