Now, young gentlemen, you should select your candidates for these offices by merit, not by favor.

I am aware that a few of you have been to sea, but probably none of you are competent to handle a ship; and your choice should be based mainly on good character and good conduct.

I hope I shall be able to approve the choice you may make.

You are dismissed now." "Three cheers for the principal!" shouted one of the boys.
"Silence, young gentleman! Let me say now, that no expressions of approbation or disapprobation are to be allowed." The boys separated into groups, and immediately gave their attention to the important subject suggested to them by Mr.Lowington.It must be acknowledged that violent symptoms of "log-rolling" began to be exhibited.

There were fifty, if not eighty-seven young men who wished to be captain, and sit at the head of the table in the after cabin.