So heave ahead, my lad, and we'll go and see this mother of yours, and hear what she has to say about it." Jack took the way home well pleased, and, opening the front door, entered the sitting room, followed by the sailor.
Aunt Rachel looked up nervously, and exclaimed: "A man!" "Yes, ma'am," said the stranger.

"I'm a man, and no mistake.

Are you this lad's mother ?" "No, sir!" answered Rachel, emphatically.

"I am nobody's mother." "Oh, an old maid!" said the sailor, whose mode of life had made him unceremonious.
"I am a spinster," said Rachel, with dignity.
"That's the same thing," said the visitor, sitting down opposite Aunt Rachel, who eyed him suspiciously.
"My aunt, Rachel Harding, Capt.

Bowling," introduced Jack.