I therefore propose to write at once to my friend Admiral Hewson, to ask him to use his influence, at the admiralty, to get the young fellow appointed to a ship.

Does that meet your approval, my friend ?" "Quite so," the other said cordially.

"Nothing could be better.

In the meantime, as you say, should Richard turn out well, and the young people take a liking for each other, no match could be more satisfactory.

What I want is that she should take no girlish fancy for him, at present." "So be it, then," the squire said.