On one particular afternoon it was observed that he indulged in this exercise with more than his usual vigour and restlessness; and it was not without cause.

He had had an inspiration.
If he could no longer follow his old trade, he would try a new one; he would set up a house of entertainment for sailors.

His house being so close to the dock, could not be more favourably situated for the purpose, and they had ample accommodation.

On the ground floor they could have a room for common sailors, and on the floor above they had one where captains and mates could be served.
He said nothing about it, however, to any one until the scheme had been fully matured; and then all of a sudden one day he came into the room where his wife was, with a bundle of printed placards and a large board in his hand.
"Good gracious, Garvloit, what is that ?" she cried.
He turned the board round with an important air, and without saying a word.

Upon it there stood in large gilt letters, "The Star." "This is our new means of earning our bread, wife," he said.