The ship was not very well arranged for tropical service; but that is nothing, for this is the rule for ships which ply in the tropics.

She had an over-supply of cockroaches, but this is also the rule with ships doing business in the summer seas--at least such as have been long in service.

Our young captain was a very handsome man, tall and perfectly formed, the very figure to show up a smart uniform's finest effects.

He was a man of the best intentions and was polite and courteous even to courtliness.

There was a soft grace and finish about his manners which made whatever place he happened to be in seem for the moment a drawing room.