Neither the chaplain nor the purser took offence at his liberties on the present occasion; and, as for the rear-admiral, he had not attended to what had been uttered.
As soon, however, as he found others in his cabin, he motioned to them to approach his desk, and pointed to the paper, folded down, as mentioned.
"Every prudent man," he said, "and, especially every prudent sailor and soldier, in a time of war, ought to be provided with a will.

This is mine, just drawn up, by myself; and that instrument is an old one, which I now destroy in your presence.

I acknowledge this to be my hand and seal," writing his name, and touching the seal with a finger as he spoke; "affixed to this my last will and testament.

Will you have the kindness to act as witnesses ?" When the chaplain and purser had affixed their names, there still remained a space for a third signature.

This, by a sign from his superior, the laughing midshipman filled with his own signature.
"I hope you've recollected, sir," cried the boy, with glee, as he took his seat to obey; "that the Bluewaters and Clevelands are related.