Now, Peter, I hardly need say that my cabin and everything I have is at your service; and I think if we could only have a devil of a gale of wind, or a hard-fought action, to send the _pigs_ overboard and smash the _piano_, we should do very well." The next day I went on board, and was shown down into the cabin, to report my having joined.

Mrs To, a tall thin woman, was at her piano; she rose, and asked me several questions--who my friends were--how much they allowed me a year, and many other questions, which I thought impertinent: but a captain's wife is allowed to take liberties.

She then asked me if I was fond of music?
That was a difficult question, as, if I said that I was, I should in all probability be obliged to hear it: if I said that I was not, I might have created a dislike in her.

So I replied, that I was very fond of music on shore, when it was not interrupted by other noise.

"Ah! then I perceive you are a real amateur, Mr Simple," replied the lady.
Captain To then came out of the after-cabin, half-dressed.