I began on the sea when I was eleven.

At twenty-one I had to go into the navy, and it was seven years later when I got back to Dunkirk after that spell in the prison.

I did not report myself, for I had no wish to do any more man-of-wars' work; and now I have had six years privateers' work, and have not made much by it.

If I get back this time and get those three shares I will buy a fine fishing smack for myself and a snug little house on shore.

There is some one I promised--if the voyage turned out well--she should have a nice little house of her own, and she promised to wait for me.