I had obeyed my directions too literally, and must and did explain and apologize.

After that, such pleasant attentions from him! Invited to call at his office with my friends, to meet desirable passengers, something nice provided for refreshment, and these gentlemen were always ready for cards or conversation.

But the great occasion was when I had no idea of such an honour, that the captain said: "We are soon to pass through the Wrangel Narrows, a dangerous place, and the steering through zigzag lines must be most careful.

I am going to smuggle you on to the bridge to see me steer and hear me give my orders that will be repeated below.

But as it is against the rule to take a woman up there at such a time, promise me to keep perfectly silent.