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 NEWTON FORSTER 
 
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 THE MERCHANT SERVICE 
 
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 CAPTAIN /M_ARRTAT 
 
 AUTHOR OF "PETER SIMPLE^) ."JAfinp FAITHFUL" &C. 
 
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 HONESTY IS THE BEST POLICY. 
 
 LONDON 
 GEORGE ROUTLEDGE AND SONS 
 
 THE BROADWAY, LUDGATE 
 NEW YORK: 416, BROOME STREET.
 
 ■,d>^ 
 
 ISAAC FOOT 
 LIBRARY
 
 p o LIBRARY 
 
 ^ ^ UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA 
 
 ^j'^ SANTA BARBARA 
 
 mo 
 
 ' NEWTOJY FORSTER; 
 
 OR, 
 
 THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 And what is this new book the whole world makes such a rout abovit ? — 
 Oh ! 'tis out of all plumb, my lord, — quite an irregular thing; not one of the 
 angles at the four corners was 3 right angle. I had my rule and compasses, 
 my lord, in my pocket. — Excellent critic! 
 
 Grant me patience, just Heaven ! Of all tlie cants which are canted in this 
 canting world — though the cant of hypocrites maybe the worst, the cant of 
 criticism is the most tormenting! Sterne. 
 
 What authors in general may feel upon the subject I 
 know not, but I have discovered, since I so rashly took 
 up my pen, that there are three portions of a novel which 
 are extremely difficult to arrange to the satisfaction of a 
 fastidious public. 
 
 The first is the beginning, the second the middle, and 
 the third is the end. 
 
 The painter who, in times of yore, exposed his canvass 
 to universal criticism, and found to his mortiffcation that 
 there was not a particle of his composition which had not 
 been pronounced defective by one pseudo-critic or another, 
 did not receive severer castigation than I have experienced 
 
 from the unsolicited remarks of " d d good-natnied 
 
 friends." 
 
 " I like your first and second volume," said a tall, 
 long-chinned, short-sighted blue, dressed in yellow, peering 
 into my face, as if her eyes were magnifying glasses, antl 
 B
 
 X NEWTON FORSTEB > 
 
 she was obtaining the true focus of vision, " but you fall 
 off in your last, which is all about that nasty line-of-battle 
 ship." 
 
 " I don't like your plot, sir^" brawls out in a stentorian 
 voice an elderly gentleman ; " I don't like your plot, sir," 
 repeated he with an air of authority^ which he had long 
 assumed, from supposing because people would not be at 
 the trouble of contradicting his opinions, that they were 
 incontrovertible — " there is nothing but death." 
 
 " Death, my dear sir," replied I, as if 1 was hailing the 
 look-out man at the mast-head, and hoping to soften him 
 ■with my intentional bull ; '^ is not death, sir, a true 
 picture of human life ? " 
 
 " Ay, ay," growled he, either not hearing or not taking ; 
 " it 's all very well, but — there 's too much killing in it." 
 
 " In a novel, sir, kiUing's no murder, you surely will 
 admit ; and you must also allow something for professional 
 feeling — ' 'Tis my occupation;' and after five-and- 
 twenty years of constant practice, whether I wield the 
 sword or the pen, the force of habit " 
 
 " It won't do, sir," interrupted he ; " the public don't 
 like it. Otherwise," continued this hyper-critic, softening 
 a little, " some of the chapters are amusing, and, on the 
 whole, it may be said to be rather — that is — not un- 
 pleasantly written, 
 
 " I like your first and third volume, but not your 
 second," squeaked out something intended to have been a 
 woman, with shoulder-blades and collar-bones, as De Ville 
 would say, most strongly developed. 
 
 " Well now, I don't exactly agree with you, my dear 
 Miss Pegoo ; I think the second and third volumes are by 
 far the most readable," exclaimed another thing, perched 
 upjin a chair, with her feet dangUng halfway between her 
 seat and the carpet. 
 
 " If I might presume upon ray long-standing in the 
 
 service. Captain ," said a pompous general officer, — 
 
 whose back appeared to have been fished with the kitchen 
 poker — '' If I might venture to offer you advice," continued 
 he, leading me paternally by the arm a little on one side, 
 '' it would be, not again to attempt a defence of smuggling :
 
 OR LiE 3IEUCUANT SERVICE. S 
 
 I consider, sir, that as an officer in his Majesty's service, 
 you have strangely committed yourself." 
 
 " It is not my defence, sir : they are the arguments o£ 
 a smuggler." 
 
 " You wrote the book, sir," replied he, sharply ; " I can 
 assure you, that I should not be surprised if the Admiralty 
 took notice of it." 
 
 " Indeed, sir," replied I, with assumed alarm. 
 
 I received no answer, except a most significant nod of 
 the head, as he walked away. 
 
 But I have not yet arrived at the climax, which made 
 me inclined to exclaim with the expiring Lion in the 
 fable 
 
 A midshipman — yes, reader, a midshipman — who had 
 formerly belonged to my ship, and had trembled at my 
 frown, ranged up alongside of me, and with a supercilious 
 air, observed — 
 
 " I have read your hook, and — there are one or two 
 good things in it." 
 
 Hear this, admirals and captains on half-pay ! hear this, 
 port-admirals and captains afloat ! I have often heard that 
 the service was deteriorating, going to the devil, but I 
 never became a convert to the opinion before. 
 
 Gracious Heaven ! what a revengeful feeling is there in 
 the exclamation " O that mine adversary had written a 
 book!" To be snarled at, and bow-wowed at, in this 
 manner, by those who find fault, because their intellect is 
 not sufficient to enabte them to appreciate ! Authors, take 
 my resolution ; which is, never to show your face until 
 your work has passed through the ordeal of the Reviews. — 
 Keep your room for the month after your literary labour. 
 Reviews arc like Jesuit father confessors — guiding the 
 opinions of the multitude, who blindly follow the sugges- 
 tions of those to whom they may have entrusted their literary 
 consciences. If your work is denounced and damned, still 
 you will be the gainer ; for is it not better to be released 
 at once from your sufferings, by one blow from the paw 
 of a tiger, than to be worried piecemeal by creatures who 
 have all the will, but not the power, to inflict the coup dc 
 grace ?
 
 4 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 The author of " Cloudesley," enumerating the qualifi- 
 cations necessary to a writer of fiction, ohi-erves, " >Vhen 
 he introduces his ideal personage to the public, he enters 
 upon his task With a preconception of the qualities that 
 belong to this being, the principle of his actions, and its 
 necessary concomitants, &c. &c." That such preparation 
 ought to be made, I will not deny ; but %vere I to attempt 
 an adherence to these rules, the public would never be 
 troubled with any production of mine. It would be too 
 tedious a journey in prospective for my wayward intellect ; 
 and if I calculated stages before I ordered my horses, I 
 should abandon the attempt, and remain quietly at home. 
 Mine is not a journey of that methodical description ; on 
 the contrary, it is a ramble hand-in-hand Avith Fancy, 
 with a light heart and a lighter baggage ; for my whole 
 wallet, when I set off, contains but one single idea — but 
 ideas are hermaphrodite, and these creatures of the brain 
 are most prolific. To speak more intelligibly, I never have 
 made any arrangement of plot when I commenced a work 
 of fiction, and often finish a chapter Avithout having the 
 slightest idea of what materials the ensuing one is to be 
 constructed. At times I feel so tired that I throw down 
 the pen in despair ; but it is soon taken up again, and, 
 like a pigmy AntaBus, it seems to have imbibed fresh vigour 
 from its prostration. 
 
 1 remember when the " King's Own " was finished, I" 
 was as happy as a pedestrian who had accomplished his 
 thousand miles in a thousand hours. My voluntary slavery 
 was over, and I was emancipated. Where was I then ? 
 I recollect ; within two days' sail of the Lizard, returning 
 home, after a six weeks' cruise to discover a rock in the 
 Atlantic, which never existed except in the terrified or 
 intoxicated noddle of some master of a merchant vessel. 
 It was about half-past five in the evening, and I was alone 
 in my after-cabin, quite alone, as the captain of a man-of-- 
 war must be, even when in presence of his ship's company. 
 If being sent to sea has been pronounced by the officers 
 and men to be transportation, being the captain of the ship 
 may truly be designated as solitary confinement.
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 5 
 
 I cculd not send for any one to Avhom I could impart 
 the intelligence — there was no one whom I could expect 
 to sympathise with me, or to whom I could pour out the 
 abundance of my joy ; for that the service prohibited. 
 What could I do ? ^^^hy I could dance ; so I sprun"- 
 from my chair, and singing the tune, commenced a Quadrille 
 movement, — Tal de ral la, tal de ral la, lity, lity, lity. 
 
 liddle-um, tal de ral la, tal " 
 
 " Three bells, sir," cried the first-lieutenant, who had 
 opened my door unpereeived by me, and showed evident 
 surprise at my motions ; " shall we beat to quarters ? " — 
 
 " Certainly, Mr. B ," replied I ; and he disappeared. 
 
 But this interruption produced only a temporary cessation : 
 I was in the height of " Cavalier seul," when his head 
 popped into the cabin — 
 
 " All present, and sober, sir,"' reported he, with a de- 
 mure smile. 
 
 " Except the captain, I presum.e you are thinking," 
 replied I. 
 
 t. " Oh ! no indeed, sir ; I observed that you were very 
 merry." 
 
 " I am, Mr. B , but not with wine ; mine is a sort 
 
 of intellectual intoxication not provided for in the Articles 
 of War." 
 
 " A what ! sir ? " 
 
 " Oh ! something that you '11 never get drunk upon, as 
 you never look into a book — beat a retreat." 
 
 " Ay, ay, sir," replied the first-lieutenant ; and he dis- 
 appeared. 
 
 And I also beat a retreat to my sofa ; and as I threw 
 myself upon it, mentally vowed that, for two months at the 
 least, I never would take up a pen. But we seldom make 
 a vow which we do not eventually break ; and the reason is 
 obvious. We vow only Avhen hurried into excesses ; we 
 are alarmed at the dominion which has been acquired over 
 us by our feelings or by our habits. Checked for a time 
 by an adherence to our resolutions, they gradually recover 
 their former strength, until they again break forth, and 
 we yield to their overpowering influence. A few days 
 after I had made the resolution, I found myself, like the
 
 6 NEWTON FORSTEil ; 
 
 sailor, rewarding it^ by writing more imlefatigably than 
 ever. 
 
 So now, reader, you may understand that I continue lo 
 write, as Tony Lumpkin says -r- not to jilease my good- 
 natured friends, '^'•but because I can't bear to disappoint 
 myself;" for that which I commenced as an amusement, 
 and continued as a drudgery, has ended in becoming a 
 confirmed habit. 
 
 So much for the overture. Now let us draw up the 
 curtain^ and our actors shall appear upon the stage. 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 Koldly I venture on a naval scene. 
 
 Nor fear the critics' frown, the pedants' spleen. 
 
 Sons of the ocean, we their rules disdain. 
 
 Hark ! — a shock 
 Tears her strong bottom on the marble rock. 
 Down on the vale of deatli, with dismal cries, 
 The fated victims sluuidering, roll their eyes 
 In wild despair — While yet another stroke 
 ■With deep convulsion rends the solid oak. 
 Till like the mine in whose infernal cell 
 The lurkinr; demons of destruction dwell. 
 At length asunder-torn, her frame divides, 
 And crashing, spreads in ruin o'er the tides. 
 
 Falconer. 
 
 It was in the dreary month of fog, misanthropy, and sui- 
 cide — the month during which Heaven receives a scantier 
 tribute of gratitude from discontented man — during which 
 the sun rises, but shines not — gives forth an unwilling 
 light, but glads us not with his cheerful rays — during 
 which large tallow candles assist the merchant to calculate 
 his gains or to philosophise over his losses — in short, it 
 ■was one evening in the month of November of the year 
 17 — , that Edward Forster, who had served m^ny years 
 in his Majesty's navy, was seated in a snug arm-chair, 
 in a snug parlour, in a snug cottage to which he had 
 retired upon his half-pay, in consequence of a severt 
 wound which had, for many years, healed but to break out 
 again each succeeding spring.
 
 OK, THE MKRCHANT SERVICE. 7 
 
 The locality of the cottage was not exactly so snug as 
 it has been described in itself, and its interior ; for it was 
 situated on a hill which terminated at a short distance in a 
 precipitous clift, beetling over that portion of the Atlantic 
 which lashes the shores of Cumberland • nder the sub- 
 denomination of the Irish Sea. But Fo.ater had been all 
 his early life a sailor, and still felt the same pleasure in 
 listening to the moaning and whistling of the wind, as it 
 rattled the shutters of his cottage (like some importunate 
 who would gain admittance), as he used to experience 
 when, lying in his hammock, he was awakened by the 
 howling of the blast, and shrouding himself in his blankets 
 to resume his nap, rejoiced that he was not exposed to 
 its fury. 
 
 His finances did not allow him to indulge in luxuries, and 
 the . distillation of the country was substituted for wine. 
 With his feet upon the fender, and his glass of whiskey- 
 toddy at his side, he had been led into a train of thought 
 by the book which he had been reading ; some passage of 
 which had recalled to his memory scents that had long 
 passed away — the scenes of youth and hope — the happy 
 castle-building of the fresh in heart, invariably overthrown 
 by time and disappointment. The night was tempestuous ; 
 the rain now pattered loud, then ceased as if it had fed the 
 wind, which renewed its violence, and forced its way 
 through every crevice. The carpet of his little room oc- 
 casionally rose from the floor, swelled up by the insidious 
 entrance of the searching blast ; the solitary candle, which 
 from neglect had not only elongated its wick to an unusual 
 extent, but had formed a sort of mushroom top, was every 
 moment in danger of extinction, while the chintz curtains 
 of the window waved solemnly to and fro. But the deep 
 reverie of Edward Forster was suddenly disturbed by the 
 report of a gun swept to leeward by the impetuosity of the 
 gale, which hurled it w ith violence against the door and front 
 windows of his cottage, for some moments causing them to 
 vibrate with the concussion. Forster started up, dropping 
 his book upon the hearth, and jerking the table with his 
 elbow, so as to dash out the larger proportion of the con- 
 tents of his tumbler. The sooty coronal of tho wick also 
 B 4
 
 8 NtWTON FOKSTER ; 
 
 fell with the shock, and the candle, relieved from its bui- 
 den, poured forth a brighter gleam. 
 
 " Lord ha' mercy, Mr, Forster ; did you hear that 
 noise?" cried the old housekeeper (the only inhabitant 
 of the cottage except himself), as she bolted into the 
 room, holding her apron in both hands. " I did, indeed, 
 Mrs. Beazely," replied Forster ; " it 's the signal of a 
 vessel in distress, and she must be on a dead lee-shore. 
 Give me my hat ! " and draining off the remainder In his 
 tumblei-, while the old lady reached his hat off a peg 
 in the passage, he darted out from the door of his 
 tenement. 
 
 The door, which faced to seaward, flew open with 
 violence, as Forster disappeared in the darkness of the 
 night. 
 
 The old housekeeper, on whom had devolved the task of 
 securing it, found it no easy matter ; and the rain, blown 
 in by the sweeping gale, proved an effectual and unwel- 
 come shower-bath to one who complained bitterly of tne 
 rheumatics. At last her object was accomplished, and 
 she repaired to the parlour to re-light the candle which 
 had been extinguished, and await the return of her master. 
 After sundi-y ejaculations and sundry wonders, she took 
 possession of liis arm-chair, poked the fire, and helped 
 herself to a glass of whisky-toddy. As soon as her clothes 
 and her tumbler Avere again dry, she announced by loud 
 snores that she was in a happy state of oblivion ; in 
 which we shall leave her, to follow the motions of Edward 
 Forster. 
 
 It was about seven o'clock in the evening, when Forster 
 thus exposed himself to the inclemency of the weather. 
 But a few weeks before how beautiful were ther evenings at 
 this hour ; the sun disappearing beyond the distant wave, 
 and leaving a portion of his glory behind him until the 
 stars, in obedience to the divine fiat, were lighted up to 
 "^ shine by night;" the sea rippling on the sand, or 
 pouring into the crevices of the rocks, changing its hue, 
 as daylight slowly disappeared, to the more sombre colours 
 it reflected, from azure to each deeper tint of grey, until 
 darkness closed in, and its extent was scarcely to be defined 
 by the horizontal line.
 
 OM, TUB MERCHANT SERVICF.. 9 
 
 Now all was changed. The roaring of the wind and 
 the hoarse beating of tlie waves upon the streaming rocks 
 deafened the ears of Edward Forster. The rain and 
 spray were hurled in his face, as, with both hands, he 
 securetl his hat upon his head; and the night was so 
 intensely dark, that but occasionally he could distinguisli 
 the broad belt of foam with which the coast was lined. 
 Still Forster forced his way towards the beach, which it is 
 now requisite that we should more particularly describe. 
 
 As we before observed, the cottage was built upon a 
 high land, which terminated in a precipitous clift about 
 two hundred yards distant, and running in a direct line to 
 the westward. To the northward, the coast for miles was 
 one continued line of rocky clifts, affording no chance of 
 life to these who might be dashed upon them ; but to the 
 southward of the clift which formed the promontory oppo- 
 site to Forster's cottage, and which terminated the range^ 
 there was a deep indent in the line of coast, forming a 
 sandy and nearly land-locked bay, small indeed, but so 
 sheltered that any vessel which could run in might remain 
 there in safety until the gale was spent. Its only occupant 
 was a fisherman, who, with his family, lived in a small 
 cottage on the beach. He was an ally of Forster, who 
 had intrusted to his charge a skiff, in which, during the 
 summer months, he often whiled away his time. It was 
 to this cottage that Forster bent his way, and loudly 
 knocked when he arrived. 
 
 " Robertson — I say, Robertson," called Forster, at the 
 full compass of his voice. 
 
 " He is not hetb, Mr. Forster," answered Jane, the 
 wife of the fisherman ; " he is out, looking for the 
 vessel." 
 
 " Which way did he go? " 
 
 Before an answer could be returned, Robertson himself 
 appeared. " I 'm here, Mr. Forster," said he, taking ofT 
 his fur cap, and squeezing out witli both hands the water 
 with which it was loaded; "but I can't see the vessel." 
 
 " StiD, by the report of the gun, she must be close to 
 the shore — (ict r-ome fagots out from the shed, and light 
 as large a fire as you can : don't spare them, my good 
 fellow ; I will pay you."
 
 10 NEWTON FORSTEI! J 
 
 '^ That I'll do, sir, and without pay; 1 only hope that 
 they'll understand the signal, and lay her on shore in the 
 cove. There's another gun !" 
 
 This second report, so much louder than the former, 
 indicated that the vessel had rapidly neared the land ; and 
 the direction from which the report came, proved that she 
 must be close to the promontory of rocks. 
 
 " Be smart, my dear fellow ; be smart," cried Forster 
 — '^ I will go up to the clift, and try if I can make her 
 out ; '' and the parties separated upon their mutual work of 
 sympathy and good will. 
 
 It was not without danger, as well as difficulty, that 
 Forster succeeded in his attempt ; and when he arrived at 
 tlie summit, a violent gust of wind would have thrown 
 him off his legs, had he not sunk down upon his. knees and 
 clung to the herbage, losing his hat, which was borne far 
 away to leeward. In this position, drenched with the rain 
 and shivering with the cold, he remained some minutes, 
 attempting in vain, with straining eyes, to pierce through 
 the gloom of the night, when a flasli of lightning, which 
 darted from the zenith and continued its eccentric career 
 until it was lost behind the horizon, discovered to him the 
 object of his researcli. But a few moments did he behold 
 it, and then, from the sudden contrast, a film appeared to 
 swim over his aching eyes, and all was more intensely, 
 more horribly dark than before ; but to the eye of a sea- 
 faring man, this short view was sufficient. He perceived 
 that it was a large ship, within a quarter of a mile of the 
 land, pressed gunnel under with her reefed courses, chop- 
 ping through the heavy seas — now pointing her bowsprit 
 to the Heavens, as she rose over the impeding swell ; now 
 plunging deep into the trough encircled by the foam raised 
 by her own exertions, like some huge monster of the deep, 
 struggling in her toils, and lashing the seas around in her 
 violent efforts to escape. 
 
 The fire burnt up fiercely in the cove, in defiance of 
 the rain and v/ind, which, after in vain attempting to 
 destroy it in its birth, now seemed to assist it with their 
 violence,, 
 
 " She may yet be saved," thought Forster, ' if she will
 
 OH, THE MERCHANT SEKVICE. 11 
 
 only carry on — Two cables' lengths more, and she will be 
 clear of the point." 
 
 Again and again was the vessel momentarily presented 
 to his view, as the forked lightning darted in every quarter 
 of the firmament, while the astounding claps of thunder 
 bursting upon his ears before the lightning had ceased to 
 gleam, announced to him that he was kneeling in the very 
 centre of the war of the elements. The vessel reared the 
 clift in about the same proportion that she forged ahead. 
 Forster was breathless with anxiety, for the last flash of 
 electricity revealed to him that two moments more would 
 decide her fate. 
 
 The gale now redoubled its fury, and Forster was 
 obliged to cling for his existence as he sank, from his 
 kneeling posture, flat upon the wet herbage. Still he had 
 approached so near to the edge of the clift that his view 
 below was not interrupted by his change of posture — 
 Another flash of hghtning. — It was enough ! " God 
 have mercy on their souls!" cried he, dropping his face 
 upon the ground as if to shut out the horrid vision from 
 Ins sight. 
 
 He had beheld the vessel within the surf, but a few 
 yards distant from the outer rocks, thrown on her beam- 
 ends, with both foresail and mainsail blown clear out of 
 tlieir bolt-ropes. The cry for succour was raised in vain ; 
 the wail of despair was not heard ; the struggles for life 
 were not beheld, as the elements in their wrath roared and 
 howled over their victim. 
 
 As if satiated with its devastation, from that moment 
 the storm gradually abated, and Forster taking advantage 
 of a lull, slowly descended to the cove, where he found 
 Robertson still heaping fuel on the fire. 
 
 " Save your wood, my good fellow ; it 's aU over with 
 her ; and those who were on board are in eternity at this 
 moment," said Forster, in a melancholy tone. 
 
 " Is she gone then, sir?" 
 
 " Right on the outer ledge; there 's not a living soul to 
 see your beacon." 
 
 " God's will be done ! " replied the fisherman ; " then 
 their time was come — but He who destroys, can save if
 
 12 NEWTON FOKSTEB ; 
 
 He pleases ; I '11 not put out the fire, while there's a fagot 
 left, for you know, Mr. Forster, that if any one should by 
 a miracle be thrown into the smooth water on this side of 
 the point, he might be saved ; that is, if he swam well :" 
 — and Robertson threw on more fagots^ which soon flared 
 up with a brilliant light. The fisherman returned to the 
 cottage to procure for Forster a red woollen cap in lieu 
 of the hat which he had lost; and they both sat down 
 close to the fire to warm themselves, and to dry their 
 streaming clothes. 
 
 Robertson had once more replenished the fuel, and the 
 vivid blaze glared along the water in the cove, when the 
 eye of Forster was attracted by the appearance of some- 
 thing floating on the wave, and evidently nearing to the 
 shore. He pointed it out to the fisherman, and they 
 descended to the water's edge, awaiting its approach with 
 intense anxiety. 
 
 " It 's not a man, sir, is it?" observed Robertson, after 
 a minute's pause. 
 
 " I cannot make it out," replied Forster ; " but I 
 rather think that it is an animal — something livings most 
 assuredly." 
 
 In another minute or two the point was decided ; they 
 distinguished a large dog bearing something white in its 
 mouth, and making for the shore where they were standing. 
 CalUng to the poor beast to cheer him, for he evidently 
 was much exhausted and approached but slowly, they soon 
 had the satisfaction of seeing him pass through the surf, 
 which, even at this time, was not heavy in the cove, and, 
 with the water pouring from his shaggy coat, stagger 
 towards them, bearing in his mouth his burden, which he 
 laid down at Forster's feet, and then shook off" the accu- 
 mulation of moisture from his skin. Forster took up the 
 object of the animal's solicitude — it was the body of an 
 infant, apparently a few months old. 
 
 " Poor thing ! " cried Forster, mournfully. 
 
 " It 's quite dead, sir," observed the fisherman. 
 
 " I am afraid so," replied Forster, " but it cannot have 
 been so long ; the dog evidently bore it up clear of the 
 water until it came into the surf. Who knows but we 
 I ould restore it.''"
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 13 
 
 " If ;i»y thing will restore it, sir, it will be the warmth 
 of woman's breast, to which it hitherto hath clung — 
 Jane shall take it in her bed between her and the little 
 ones;" and the fisherman entered the hut with the child, 
 which Avas undressed, and received by his wife with all the 
 sympathy which maternal feelings create, even towards the 
 offspring of others. To the delight of Forster, in a 
 quarter of an hour Robertson came out of the cottage with 
 the intelligence that the child had moved and cried a 
 little, and that there was every chance of its recovery. 
 
 '•It's a beautiful little girl, sir, Jane says ; and if it 
 lives, she will halve her milk between it and our little 
 Tommy." 
 
 Forster remained another half-hour, until he had ascer- 
 tained that the child had taken the breast and had fallen 
 asleep. Congratulating himself at having been the means 
 of saving even one little life out of the many which, in all 
 probability had been swallowed up, he called to the dog, 
 who had remained passive by the fire, and rose up to 
 return home ; but the dog retreated to the door of the 
 cottage into which he had seen the infant carried, and all 
 attempts to coax him away were fruitless. 
 
 Forster summoned Robertson, to whom he gave som.e 
 further directions, and then returned to his home, where, 
 on his arrival, his old housekeeper, who had never been 
 awakened i'rom her sound nap until roused by his knock- 
 ing at the door, scolded him not a little for being out 
 in such tempestuous weatlier, and a great deal more for 
 having obliged her to. sit up and waich all night until his 
 return.
 
 ]4' NEV7T0N FOBSTES 
 
 CHAPTER TIL 
 
 Creation smiles around ; on every spray 
 The warbling birds exalt their evening lay : 
 Blithe skipping o'er yon hill, tlie fleecy train 
 Join the deep chorus of the lowing plain : 
 The glassy ocean hush'd, forgets to roar, 
 But trembling murmurs on the sandy shore. 
 
 Falconer. 
 
 FoKSTER was soon fast asleep after his night of exertion : 
 his dreams were confused and wild ; but I seldom trouble 
 people about dreams, which are as nought. When Reason 
 descends from her throne, and seeks a transitory respite 
 from her labour. Fancy usurps the vacant seat, and in 
 pretended majesty, would fain exert her sister's various 
 powers. These she enacts to the best of her ability, and 
 with about the same success as attends a monkey when he 
 attempts the several operations connected with the mystery 
 of shaving : — and thus ends a very short and conclusive 
 dissertation upon dreams. 
 
 But, to use a nautical phrase, we must " heave-to " 
 in our narrative awhile, as it is necessary that we should 
 enter a little more into the previous history of Edward 
 Forster ; which we can now do without interruption, as the 
 parties we have introduced to the reader are all asleep. 
 
 The father of Edward Forster was a clergyman, who, 
 notwithstanding he could reckon up some twenty or thirty 
 first, second, and third cousins with high-sounding titles, 
 officiated as curate in a district not far from that part of 
 the country where Forster at present was located. He 
 was one of the bees of the church, who are constantly 
 toiling, while the drones are eating up the honey. He 
 preached three sermons, and read three services, at three 
 diiferent stations every Sunday throughout the year ; 
 while he christened, married, and buried a population 
 extending over some thousands of square acres, for the 
 scanty stipend of one hundred per annum. Soon after he 
 was in possession of his curacy he married a young v/oman, 
 who brought him beauty and modesty as her dower, and 
 subsequently pledges of mutual love ad lib. But He that
 
 oil, TIIK MEKOKAAT SERVICE. J.5 
 
 giveth, taketh away ; and out of nearly a Kcore of tlicss 
 interesting but expensive presents to her husband, only 
 three, all of the masculine gender, arrived at years of ma- 
 turity. John (or Jock, as he urually was called), v.ho 
 was the eldest, was despatched to London, where he 
 studied the law under a relation ; who, perceiving that 
 Mrs. Forster's annual presentation of the living was not 
 followed up by any presentation to the living, kindly took 
 charge of, and received him into his own house. 
 
 Jock was a hard-headed fellow, studied with great 
 diligence, and retained what he read, although he did not 
 read fast ; but that which he lost in speed he made up by 
 perseverance, and had now, entirely by his own exertions, 
 risen to considerable eminence in his profession ; but he 
 had been severed from his family in early days, and had 
 never been able to return to them. He heard, indeed, of 
 the birth of sundry brothers and sisters ; of their deaths ; 
 and lastly, of the demise of his parents, the only com- 
 munication which affected him ; for he loved his father 
 and mother, and was anticipating the period when he 
 might possess the means of rendering them more com- 
 fortable. But all this had long passed away. He was 
 now a bachelor past fifty, bearish and uncouth in his ap- 
 pearance, and ungracious in his deportment. Secluded in 
 his chambers, poring over the dry technicalities of his 
 profession, he had divided the moral world into tAvo 
 parts — honest and dishonest, lawful and unlawful. AU 
 other feelings and affections,, if he had them, were buried, 
 and had never been raised to the surface. At the time we 
 speak of he continued his laborious, yet lucrative, pro- 
 fession, toiling in his harness like a horse in a mill, heaping 
 up riches, knowing not who should gather them ; not from 
 avarice, but from long habit, which rendered his profession 
 not only his pleasure, but essential to his very existence. 
 Edward Forster had not seen him for nearly twenty years; 
 the last time was when he passed through London upon his 
 retirement from the service. Luleed, as they never corre- 
 sponded (for there was nothing common between them), it 
 is a matter of doubt whether Jock was exactly aware Avhich 
 of his brothers remained alive ; and had it been a subject
 
 16 NEWTON KORSTEU ; 
 
 of interest, he wouldj in all probability, have referred to 
 the former letters of his father and mother, as legal docu 
 ments, to ascertain who was remaining of his kin. 
 
 The next surviving son was yclept (tlicre's something 
 very consonant in that word) Nicholas. The Reverend 
 Mr. Forster, who had no inheritance to bequeath to his 
 family except a good name, which although better than 
 riches, will not always procure for a man one penny loaf, 
 naturally watched for any peculiar symptoms of genius in 
 his children which might designate one of the various 
 paths to wealth and fame, by which it would be most 
 easy for the individual to ascend. Now it did occur that 
 when Nicliolas was yet in womanish attire, he showed a 
 great partiality to a burning-glass, with which he con- 
 trived to do much mischief. He would burn the dog's 
 nose as he slept in the sun before the door. His mo- 
 ther's gown showed proofs of his genius by sundry little 
 round holes, which were considerably increased each time 
 that it returned from the wash. Nay, heretical and 
 damnable as is tlie fact, his father's surplice Avas as a 
 moth-eaten garment from the repeated and insidious attacks 
 of this young philosopher. The burning-glass decided 
 his fate. He was bound apprentice to an optical and ma- 
 thematical instrument maker ; from which situation he 
 was, if possible, to emerge into the highest grade of the 
 profession ; but, somehow or another, a want of ambition 
 or of talent did not permit him to ascend the scale, and he 
 now kept a shop in the small seaport town of Overton, 
 where he repaired damaged articles of science — a watch 
 one day, a quadrant or a compass another ; but his chief 
 employment and his chief forte lay in telescopes ; and ac- 
 cordingly, a large board, with "Nicholas Forster, Optician," 
 surmounted the small shop window, at which he v/as 
 invariably to be seen at his employment. He was an 
 eccentric person, one of those who had narrowly escaped 
 being clever ; but there was an obliquity in his mind 
 which would not admit of lucid order and arrangement. 
 In the small town where he resided, he continued to pick 
 up a decent sustenance ; for he had no competitor, and 
 was looked upon as a man of considerable ability. He was
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 17 
 
 the only one of three brothers who had ventured upon 
 -wedlock. But of this part of our history we shall at present 
 say no more than that he had an only child, and had 
 married his wife, to use his own expression, because she 
 suited his focus. 
 
 Edward Forster the youngest, whom we have already 
 introduced to the reader, showed strong nautical pro- 
 pensities ; he swam nut-shells in a puddle, and sent 
 pieces of lath with paper sails floating down the brook 
 which gurgled by the parsonage. This was circum- 
 stantial evidence : he was convicted, and ordered off to sea, 
 to return a Nelson. For his conduct during the time 
 he served her, Edward Forster certainly deserved well of 
 his country, and had he been enabled to continue in his 
 profession, would in all probability have risen by his merit 
 to its highest grades ; but having served his time as 
 midishipman, he received a desperate wound in " cutting 
 out," and shortly after obtained his promotion to the rank 
 of lieutenant for his gallant conduct. His wound was of 
 that severe description that he was obliged to quit the ser- 
 vice, and, for a time, retire upon his half pay. For many 
 years, he looked forward to the period when he could 
 resume his career: — but in vain ; the wound broke out 
 again and again; fresh splinters of the bone continually 
 worked out, and he was doomed to constant disappoint- 
 ment. At last it healed ; but years of suffering had 
 quenched the ardour of youth, and when he did apply 
 for employment, his services had been forgotten. He 
 received a cool negative, almost consonant to his wishes : 
 and returned, without feeling mortified, to the cottage wc 
 have described, where he lived a secluded yet not an un- 
 happy life. His wants were few, and his half pay more 
 than adequate to supply them. A happy contemplative 
 indolence, arising from a well cultivated mind, feeaing 
 rather upon its previous acquirements, than adding to 
 its store — an equanimity of disposition, and a habit of 
 rigid self-command — were the characteristics of EdAvai'd 
 Forster ; whom I shall now awaken, that we may proceed 
 with our narrative. 
 
 " Well, I do declare, Mr. Forster, you have had a 
 c
 
 18 NEWTON FORSTER; 
 
 famous nap," cried Mrs. Beazeley^ in a tone of voice so loud 
 as to put an immefliate end to his slmnber, as she entered 
 his room with some hot water to assist him in that mas- 
 culine operation^ the diurnal painful return of which has 
 been considered to be more than tantamount in suffering 
 to the occasional ' pleasing punishment which women 
 bear.' Although this cannot be proved until ladies are 
 endowed with beards (which Heaven forfend !), or some 
 modern Tiresias shall appear to decide the i>oint^ the asser- 
 tion apfffears to be borne out, if we reason by analogy from 
 human life ; where we find that it is not the heavy blow 
 of sudden misfortune tripping the ladder of our ambition 
 and laying us prostrate, which constitutes life's intermit- 
 tent " fitful fever ;" but the thousand petty vexations of 
 
 hourly occurrence. We return to Mrs. Beazeley, who 
 
 continued — "■ Why, it's nine o'clock, Mr. Forster, and a 
 nice fresh morning it is too, after last night's tempest. And 
 pray what did you hear and see, sir .''" continued the old 
 woman, opening the shutters, and admitting a blaze of 
 sunshine, as if determined that at all events he should now 
 both hear and see. 
 
 " I '11 tell you all, Mrs. Beazeley, when I am dressed. 
 Let me have my breakfast as soon as you can, for I must 
 be off again to the cove. I did not intend to have slep', so 
 late." 
 
 " Why, what's in the wind now, Mr. Forster.^" said 
 the old lady, borrowing one of his nautical phrases. 
 
 "If you wish to know, M^.'v Beazeley, the sooner you 
 allow me to get out of bed, the sooner I shall be able to 
 give you the information you require." 
 
 " But what made you stay out so late, Mr. Forster.''" 
 continued the housekeeper, who seeme<.l determined, if 
 possible, to have a little information en attendant, to stay 
 her appetite until her curiosity could obtain a more substan- 
 tial repast. 
 
 " I am sorry to say, there was a vessel wrecked." 
 
 ■' O dear! O dear! Any lives lost ?" 
 
 " All, I am afraid, except one, and even that is 
 doubtfal." 
 
 " O Lord! O Lord! Do, pray, Mr Forster, tell me all 
 aboui it."
 
 OR, THE lUERCnANT SERVICE. IJ 
 
 " As soon as I am dressed, Mrs. Beazelcy," replied Mri 
 Forster, making a movement indicative that he was about 
 to " turn out," whether or no, and which occasioned Mrs. 
 Beazeley to make a hasty retreat. 
 
 In a few minutes Forster made his appearance in the 
 parlour, where he found both the kettle and the house- 
 keeper boiling with impatience. He commenced eating 
 and narrating until the respective appetites of Mrs. Beaze- 
 ley and himself were equally appeased, and then set off for 
 the abode of Robertson, to ascertain the fate of the infant. 
 
 How different was the scene from that of the night be 
 fore ! The sea was still in commotion, and as the bright 
 sun shone upon its agitated surface, gilding the summits 
 of the waves, although there was majesty and beauty in the 
 appearance, there was nought to excite terror. The atmo- 
 sphere, purified by the warfare of the elements, was fresh 
 and bracing. The short verdure which covered the pro 
 montory and hills adjacent, was of a more brilliant green, 
 and seemed as. if to bask in the sun after the cleansing it 
 had received from the heavy rain ; while the sheep (for 
 the coast was one extended sheep-walk) studded the sides 
 of the hills, their white fleeces in strong, yet beautiful 
 contrast, with the deep verdure of nature. The smooth 
 water of the cove, in opposition to the vexed billows of 
 the unsheltered ocean ; the murmuring of the light waves, 
 running in long and gently curved lines to their repose upon 
 the yellow sand ; their surface occasionally rippled by the 
 eddying breeze as it swept along ; his own little skiff" safe 
 at her moorings, undulating with the swell ; the sea-gulls, 
 who but a few hours ago were screaming with dismay as 
 they buffeted against the fury of the gale, now skimming 
 en the waves, or balanced on the wing near to their inac- 
 cessible retreats ; the carolling of the smaller birds on 
 every side of him, produced a lightness of heart and 
 quickened pulse, to which Edward Forster had latterly 
 been a stranger. 
 
 He soon arrived at the cottage, where the sound of his 
 footsteps brought out the Irshcrman and his wife, the latter 
 bearing in her arms the little object of his solicitude. 
 
 " See, Mr. Forster," said Jane, holding cat tlie infant.
 
 20 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 " it's quite Avell and hearty, and does nothing but smile. 
 What a lovely babe it is ! " 
 
 Forster looked at the child, who smiled, as if in grati- 
 tude ; but his attention was called away by the Newfound- 
 land dog, who fawned upon him, and after having received 
 his caresses, squatted down upon the sand, which he beat 
 with his tail as he looked wistfully in Forster's face. 
 
 Forster took the child from the arms of its new mother. 
 ' Thou hast had a narrow escape, poor thing," said he, 
 and his countenance assumed a melancholy cast as the idea 
 floated in his mind. '^ Who knows how many more perils 
 may await thee ? Who can say whether thou art to be 
 restored to the arms of thy relatives, or be left an orphan 
 to a sailor's care ? Whether it had not been better that the 
 waves should have swallowed thee in thy purity, than thou 
 shouldest be exposed to a heartless world of sorrow and of 
 crime ? But He who willed thee to be saved knows best 
 for us who are in darkness ;" and Forster kissed its brow, 
 and returned it to the arms of Jane. 
 
 Having made a few arrangements with Robertson and 
 his. wife, in whose care he resolved at present to leave the 
 child, Forster bent his steps towards the promontory, that 
 he might ascertain if any part of the vessel remained. 
 Stretching over the summit of the cliff, he perceived that 
 several of the lower futtocks and timbers still hung toge- 
 ther, and showed themselves above water. Anxious to 
 obtain some clue to her identity, he prepared to descend 
 by a winding and hazardous path which he had before 
 surmounted. In a quarter of an hour he had gained a 
 position close to the wreck ; btit, with the exception of the 
 shattered remnant which was firmly wedged between the 
 rocks, there was nothing to be seen ; not a fragment of 
 her masts and spars, or sails, not a relic of what was once 
 life remained. The tide, which ran furiously round the 
 promontory, had swept them all away, or the undertow of 
 the deep water had buried every detached particle, to be 
 delivered up again, " far, far at sea." All that Forster 
 could ascertain was, that the vessel was foreign built, and 
 of large tonnage ; but who were its unfortunate tenants, 
 or what the cargo of which she had been despoiled by the
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 21 
 
 devouring waves, was not even to be surmised. The linen 
 on the child was marked J. de F. ; and this was the only 
 clue which remained for its identity. For more than an 
 hour did Forster remain fixed as a statue upon the rock, 
 where he had taken his station with arms folded, while he 
 contemplated the hoarse waves, dashing against the bends, 
 or dividing as they poured themselves between the timbers 
 of the vessel, and he sunk into deep and melancholy 
 thought. 
 
 And where is the object exciting more serious reflection 
 than a Wreck ? 
 
 The pride and ingenuity of man humbled and overcome ; 
 the elements of the Lord occupying the fabric which had 
 set them at defiance ; tossing, tumbling, and dancing, as 
 if in mockery at their success ! The structure, but a few 
 hours past, as perfect as human intellect could devise, 
 towering with its proud canvass over space, and bearing 
 man to greet his fellow-man, over the surface of death ! — 
 dashing the billow from her stem, as if in scorn, while she 
 pursued her trackless way- — bearing tidings of peace and 
 security, of war and devastation — tidings of joy or gfief, 
 affecting whole kingdoms and empires, as if they were but 
 individuals ! 
 
 Now, the watecs delight in their revenge, and sparkle 
 with joy, as the sun shines upon their victory. That keel, 
 which, with the sharpness of a scythe, has so often mowed 
 its course through the reluctant wave, is now buried ; — 
 buried deep in the sand, which the angry surge accumu- 
 lates each minute, as if determined that it never will be 
 subject to its weight again. 
 
 How many seasons had rolled away, how many millions 
 had returned to the dust from which they sprung, before 
 the kernels had swelled into the forest giants levelled for 
 that structure ; — what labour had been undergone to com- 
 plete the task; — how many of the existent race found 
 employment and subsistence as they slowly raised that 
 monument of human skill; — how often had the weary 
 miner laid aside his tool to wipe his sweating brow, before 
 the metals required for the completion had been brought 
 from darkness ; — what thousands had been employed 
 o 3
 
 22 NEWTON FOKSTEKi 
 
 before it was prepared and ready for ita destined use ! 
 Yon copper bolt, twisted with a force not human, and 
 raised above the waters, as if in evidence of their dreadful 
 power, may contain a history in itseji'. 
 
 How many of her own structure must have been em- 
 ployed, bringing from the nortli, the south, the east, and 
 the west : her masts, her spars, her " hempen tackle," and 
 her canvass wings ; her equipment in all its variety ; her 
 stores for the support of life ; her magazines of quiescent 
 death* And they who so fearlessly trod her decks, con- 
 scious of their own powers, and confident in their own 
 skill; they who expanded her thousands of yards of can- 
 vass to the pursuing breeze, or reduced them, like magic, 
 at the approaching storm — where are they now ? How 
 many sighs have been lavished at their absence ! how 
 many hearths would have been gladdened by their return ! 
 Where are the hopes, the fears, the ambition, and the 
 pride ; the courage and the enterprise ; the love and the 
 yearnings after their kin ; the speculations of the present, 
 and the calculations of the future, which occupied their 
 minds, or were cherished in their bosoms ? AJl — all 
 wrecked ! 
 
 Days, rreeks, and months rolled away ; yet every step 
 that could be taken to find out the name of the vessel 
 proved unavailing. Although the conjectures of Forster, 
 that she was one of the many foreign West Indiamen 
 which had met with a similar fate during that tempestuous 
 •winter, Avas probably correct ; still no clue could be ga- 
 thered by which the parentage of the little girl could be 
 ascertained. The linen was indeed marked with initials ; 
 but this circumstance offered but a faint prospect of disco- 
 very. Either her relations, convinced of her loss made nc 
 inquiries, or the name of the vessel in which she had been 
 a passenger was not known to them. The child had been 
 weaned, and removed to th« cottage, where it occupiec 
 much of the attention of the old housekeeper and Forster, 
 who, despairing of its ever being reclaimed, determined to 
 bring it up as his own. 
 
 Mrs. Beazeley, the housekeeper, was a good-tempereii 
 
 * We presume the gentleman means gunpowder, — En
 
 OK, THE IIEIICHANT SICRVICE. 23 
 
 woraan, long pasised the grand climacteric, and strongly 
 attached to Forster, with whom she had resided many 
 years. But^ like all women, whether married or single, 
 who have the responsibility of a household, she would have 
 her own way ; and scolded her master with as little cere- 
 mony as it she had been united to liim by matrimonial 
 bonds. 
 
 To this Forster quietly submitted : he had lived long 
 enough to be aware that people are not the happiest who 
 are not under control, and was philosopher sufficient to 
 submit to the penal code of matrimony without tasting its 
 enjoyments. The arrival of the infant made him more 
 than ever feel as if he were a married man ; for he had all 
 the delights of the nursery in addition to his previous dis- 
 cipline. But, although bound by no ties, he found himself 
 happier. He soon played with the infant, and submitted 
 to his housekeeper with all the docility of a well-trained 
 married man. 
 
 The Newfoundland dog, who, although (like some of 
 his betters) he did not change his name for a fortune, did, 
 in all probability, change it ivitli his fortune, soon answered 
 to the deserved epithet of Faithful, and slept at the foot of 
 the crib of his little mistress, who also was to be rechris- 
 tened. " She is a treasure, which has been thrown up by 
 the ocean," said Forstei-, kissing the lovely infant. " Let 
 her name be Amhcn:" 
 
 But we must leave her to bud forth in her innocence 
 and her purity, while we direct the attention of the reader 
 to other scenes, which are contemporary with those we 
 have describecL 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 A woman moved is like a fnuntain troubled. 
 
 Muddy, ill-secraing, thick, bereft of beauty ; 
 
 And while 't is so, none .lo dry or tlursty 
 
 Will deign to sip, or touch one drop of it. Sh4KSPEAre. 
 
 A MAN may purchase an estate, a tenement, or a horse, 
 because they have pleased his fancy, and eventually find 
 c 4
 
 24 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 out that he has not exactly suited himself; and it some- 
 times will occur that a man is placed in a similar situation 
 relative to his choice of a wife : a more serious evil ; as, 
 although the prime cost may be nothing, there is no chance 
 of getting rid of this latter speculation by re-vending, as 
 you may the former. Now it happened that Nicholas 
 Forster, of whom we have already made slight mention, 
 although he considered at the time of his marriage that 
 the person he had selected would exactly suit his focus, 
 did eventually discover that he was more short-sighted in 
 his choice than an optician ought to have been. 
 
 Whatever may have been the personal charms of Mrs. 
 Nicholas Forster at the time of their union, she had, at 
 the period of our narrative, but few to boast of, being a 
 thin, sharp-nosed, ferret-eyed, little woman, teeming with 
 suspicion, jealousy, and bad humours of every description : 
 her whole employment (we may say, her whole delight) 
 was in finding fault : her shrill voice Avas to be heard 
 from the other side of the street from morning until 
 night. The one servant which their finances enabled 
 them with difficulty to retain, and whom they engaged as 
 the maid of all work (and certainly she was not permitted 
 by Mrs. Forster to be idle in her multifarious duty), 
 seldom remained above her month ; and nothing but the 
 prospect of immediate starvation could induce any one to 
 offer herself in that capacity. 
 
 Mr. Nicholas Forster, fortunately for his own happi- 
 ness, was of that pecuUar temperament, that nothing could 
 completely rouse his anger : he was absent to an excess ; 
 and if any language or behaviour on the part of his wife 
 induced his choler to rise, other ideas would efface the 
 cause from liis memory ; and this hydra of the human 
 bosom, missing the object of its intended attack, again 
 laid down to rest. 
 
 The violence and vituperation of his spouse were, there- 
 fore, lost upon Nicholas Forster ; and the impossibility of 
 disturbing the equanimity of his temper increased the 
 irritability of her own. Still Mr. Nicholas Forster, when 
 he did reflect upon the subject, which was but during 
 momentary fits of recollection, could not help acknow-
 
 OR, THE MEKCHANT SERVICE. 25 
 
 ledging that he should be much more quiet and happy 
 ■when it pleased Heaven to summon Mrs. Forstcr to a bet 
 ter world: and this idea ultimately took possession of his 
 imagination. Her constant turbulence interfered so much 
 with the prosecution of his plans, that, finding it impossi- 
 ble to carry them into execution, every thing that he con- 
 sidered of moment was mentally put off until Mrs. Forster 
 was dead ! 
 
 " Well, Mr. Forster, how long is the dinner to wait 
 before you think proper to come ? Every thing will be 
 cold as usual. — (N.B. the dinner consisted of the remains 
 of a cold shoulder of mutton.) — Or do you mean to have 
 any dinner at all ? Betty, clear away the table ; I have 
 my work to do, and won't wait any longer." 
 
 "^I'm coming, my dear, I'm coming; only this balance 
 spring is a job that I cannot well leave," replied Nicholas, 
 continuing his vocation in the shop, with a magnifying 
 glass attached to his eye. 
 
 " Coming ! yes, and Christmas is coming Mr. Forster. 
 — Well, the dinner's going, I can tell you." 
 
 Nicholas, who did not Avant appetite, and who was con- 
 scious that if the mutton returned to the cupboard there 
 would be some difficulty made in reproducing it, laid down 
 the watch and came into the back parlour. 
 
 "Well, my dear, here I am ; sorry to have kept you 
 waiting so long, but business must be attended to. — Dear 
 me, why the mutton is really quite cold," continued 
 Nicholas, thrusting a large piece into his mouth, quite foi-- 
 getting that he had already dined twice off the identical 
 joint. " That 's a fine watch of Mr. Tobin's ; but I 
 think that my improvement upon the duplex when I have 
 finished it " 
 
 "When you have finished it, indeed!" retorted the 
 lady ; " why, when did you ever finish any thing, Mr. 
 Forster ! Finish indeed ! '' 
 
 " Well, my dear,'' replied the husband, with an ab- 
 sent air — "I do mean to finish it, when — you are 
 dead ! " 
 
 "When I am dead!" screamed the lady, in a rage — 
 " when I am dead ! " continued she, placing her arras
 
 16 
 
 NMWTO.V FOnSTEU 
 
 akimbo, as she started from the chair : — "I can tel! you, 
 Mr. Forster, that I'll live long enough to plap;ue you. 
 It 's not the first time that you've said so; but depend 
 upon it, 1 '11 dance upon your grave yet, Mr. Forster." 
 
 " I did not exactly mean to say that ; not exactly that,, 
 my dear," replied Nicholas, confused. " The fact is that 
 I was not exactly aware of what I was saying — I had not 
 precisely the " 
 
 '^ Precisely the fiddle-stick, Mr. Forster ! you did mean 
 it, and you do mean it, and this is all the return that I 
 am to expect for my kindness and anxiety for your welfare 
 — slaving and toiling all day as I do ; but you're incor- 
 rigible:, Mr. Forster : look at you, helping yourself out 
 .of your snufF-box instead of the salt-cellar. What man 
 in his senses would eat a cold shoulder of mutton with 
 tobacco .^ '' 
 
 '' Dear me, so I have," replied Forster, removing the 
 snufF taken from the box, whic^, as usual, lay open before 
 him, not into the box again, but into the salt-cellar. 
 
 " And who's to eat that salt now, you nasty beast ?" 
 
 " I am not a beast, Mrs. Forster," replied the husband, 
 whose choler was roused ; " I made a mistake ; I do per- 
 ceive — now I recollect it, did you send Betty with the 
 ' day and night glass ' to Captain Simkins.-^" 
 
 " Yes, I did, Mr. Forster : if I did not look after your 
 business, I should like to know what would become of us ; 
 and I can tell, you Mr. Forster, that if you do not con- 
 trive to get more business, there will soon be nothing to 
 eat; seventeen and sixpence is all that I have received 
 this last week ; and liow rent and fire, meat and drink, 
 are to be paid for with that, you must explain, for I 
 can't." 
 
 " How can I help it, my dear? I never refuse a job." 
 
 <' Never refuse a job ? no ; but you must contrive to 
 make more business." 
 
 " I can mend a watch, and make a telescope, but I can't 
 make business, my dear," replied Nicholas. 
 
 " Yes, you can, and you must, Mr. Forster," continued 
 the lady, sweeping off the remains of the mutton, just as 
 her husband had fixed his eye upon the next cut, and
 
 OU. THE MERCHANT SKRVICE. 2? 
 
 locking it up in the cupboard — "' if you do not, you will 
 have nothing to eat, Mr. Forster." 
 
 " So it appears, my dear," replied the meek Nicholas, 
 taking a pinch of snufF; "but I really don't " 
 
 " AVhy, Mr. Forster, if you were not one of the 
 greatest " 
 
 " No, no, my dear," interrupted Nicholas, from ex- 
 treme modesty, "I am not one of the greatest opticians 
 of the present day; although when I've made my im- 
 prove " 
 
 '^ Greatest opticians ! " interrupted the lady. " One of 
 the greatest ybo/.>^, I meant ! " 
 
 " That's quite another thing, my dear ; but " 
 
 " No huts, Mr. Forster ; please to listen, and not inter- 
 rupt me in that bearisii manner. Why do you repair in 
 the way you do .'' AVlio ever brings you a w^atch or a 
 glass that you have handled a second time ? " 
 
 " But why should they, my dear, when I have put them 
 in good order ? " 
 
 " Put them in order ! but why do you put them in 
 order } " 
 
 "Why do I put them in order, my dear?'' replied 
 Forster, with astonishment. 
 
 " Yes ; why don't you leave a screw loose', somewhere ? 
 then they must come again. That 's the proper way to do 
 business.* 
 
 " The proper way to do my business, my dear, is to 
 see that; all the screws are tight." 
 
 "And starve !" continued the lady. 
 
 " If it please God," replied the honest Nicholas. 
 
 But this matrimonial duet was interrupted by the 
 appearance of their son, whom we must introduce to the 
 reader, as he will play a conspicuous part in our narrative. 
 
 Newton Forster, for thus had he been christened by his 
 father, out of respect for the great Sir Isaac, who was 
 now about seventeen years' old — athletic and well pro- 
 ^lortioned in person, handsome in features, and equally 
 gifted in mint!. There was a frankness and sincerity in 
 his open bro%v, an honesty in his smile, which immediately 
 won upon the beholder ; and his countenance was hut an
 
 28 
 
 NEWTON FOKSTEU J 
 
 index to his mind. His father h<ad bestowed all his own 
 leisure, and some expense, which he could ill afford, upon 
 his education, trusting one day that he would rival the 
 genius after whom he had been christened ; but Newton 
 was not of a disposition to sit down either at a desk or a 
 work-bench. Whenever he could escape from home or 
 from school, he was to be found either on the beach or at 
 the pier, under the shelter of which the coasting vessels 
 <li£cl)arged or received their cargoes ; and he had for 
 some years declared his intention to follow the profession 
 of a sailor. To this his father had reluctantly consented, 
 with the proviso that he would first finish his education ; 
 and the mutual compact had been strictly adhered to by 
 each j)arty. 
 
 At the age of fifteen Newton had acquired all that could 
 be imparted to him by the pedagogue of the vicinity, and 
 had then, until something better should turn up, shipped 
 himself on board of a coasting vessel, in which, during the 
 iast two years he had made several trips, being usually 
 absent about six weeks, and remaining in port about the 
 same time, until another cargo could be procured. 
 
 Young as he was, the superiority of his education had 
 obtained him the situation of mate of the vessel ; and his 
 pay enabled him to assist his father, whose business, as 
 JMrs. Forster declared, was not sufficient to "make both 
 €nds meet." Upon his return, his love of knowledge and 
 active habits induced him to glean as much as he could of 
 his father's profession, and he could repair most articles 
 tliat were sent in. Although Newton amused himself 
 with the peculiarities and eccentricity of his father, he 
 still had high respect for him, as he knew him to be a 
 worthy, honest man. For his mother he certainly had 
 none : he was indignant at her treatment of his father, 
 and could find no redeeming quality to make amends for 
 her catalogue of imperfections. Still he had a peculiar 
 tact, by which he avoided any serious altercation. Never 
 losing his own temper, yet quietly and firmly resisting all 
 control, he assumed a dominion over her, from which her 
 feelings towards him, whatever they may have been in his 
 early years, were now changed into those of positive
 
 OR, TUK MERCHANT SKRVICE. O^ 
 
 Iiatred. His absence this morning had been occasioned 
 by his assistance being required in the fitting of a new 
 main-stay for the sloop to whicli he belonged. " Please 
 God, what, father?" said Newton, as he came in, catching 
 liis father's last words. 
 
 '• Why, your mother says that we must starve or be 
 dishonest." 
 
 " Then we'll starve, father, widi a clear conscience; 
 but I hoi)e things are not so bad yet, I'or I am devilish 
 hungry," continued Newton, looking at the dinner-table, 
 vvliich offered to his view nothing but a table-cloth, with 
 the salt-cellar and the snufF-box. " Why, mother, is it 
 (lead low water, or have you stowed all away in the 
 locker?' — and Newton repaired to the cupboard, which 
 %vas locked. 
 
 Now Mrs. Forster was violent with others but with 
 Newton she was always sulky. 
 
 " There's nothing in the cupboard," growled the lady. 
 
 " Then why lock up nothing?" rejoined Newton, who 
 was aware that veracity was not among ]\Irs. Forster's 
 catalogue of virtues. " Come, mother, hand me the key, 
 and I'll ferret out something, I'll answer for it." 
 
 Mrs. Forster replied, that the cupboard was her own, 
 and she was mistress of the house. 
 
 " Just as you please, mother. But, before I take the 
 trouble, tell me, father, is there any thing in the cup- 
 board ?" 
 
 " Why, yes, Newton, there's some mutton. At least, if 
 I recollect right, I did not eat it all — did I, my dear? " 
 
 Mrs. Forster did not condescend an answer. Newton 
 went into the shop, and returned with a chisel and hammer. 
 Taking a chair to stand upon, he very coolly began to 
 force the lock. 
 
 " I am very sorry, mother, but I must have something 
 
 to eat ; and since you won't give me the key, why " 
 
 observed Newton, giving the handle of the chisel a smart 
 blow with the hammer 
 
 " Here's the key, sir," cried Mrs. Forster with indig- 
 nation, throwing it on the table, and bouncing out of the 
 room.
 
 so NEWTON FORSTER : 
 
 A smile was exchanged between the father and son, as 
 she went backwards^ screaming, " Betty — I say, Betty, 
 you idle slut, where are you ? " as if determined to vent 
 her spleen upon somebody. 
 
 " Have you dined, father ?" inquired Newton, who had 
 now placed the contents of the cupboard upon the table. 
 
 " Why, I really don't quite recollect ; but I feel very 
 hungry," replied the optician, putting in his plate to receive 
 two large slices ; and father and son sat down to a hearty 
 meal, proving the truth of the wise man's observation, 
 that, " Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than the 
 stalled ox and hatred therewith." 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 Whate'er it be, 
 'T is wondrous heavy. Wrench it open straight. 
 » If the sea's stomach be o'ercharged with gold. 
 
 It is a jjood constraint of fortune, that 
 It belciies on us. SnAKSPEAaE. 
 
 About three weeks after the events narrated in the pre- 
 ceding chapter, Newton Forster sailed in his vessel with 
 a cargo to be delivered at the sea-port of Waterford- The 
 master of her was immoderately addicted to liquor ; and, 
 during the time that he remained in port, seldom was to 
 be found in a state of perfect sobriety, even on a Sunday. 
 But, to do him justice, when his vessel was declared ready 
 for sea, he abstained fromhis usual indulgence, that he might 
 be enabled to take charge of the property committed to iiis 
 care, and find liis way to his destined port. It was a point 
 OR which his interest overcame, for a time, his darling pro- 
 pensity : and his rigid adherence to sobriety, when afloat, 
 •was so weir ascertained, that his character as a trustworthy 
 seaman was not injured by his continual intemperance when 
 in harbour. Latterly, however, since Newton had sailed 
 with him, he had not acted' up to his important resolution. 
 He found that the vessel was as safe under the charge of 
 Forster as under his own ; and having taken great pains
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT hIDriVICE, 31 
 
 to instruct him in seamanship, and make him well ac- 
 quainted with the dangers of the coast, he tfiought that, as 
 Newton was fully equal to the charge of the vessel, he 
 miglat as well indulge himself with an occasional glass 
 or two, to while away the tedium of embarkation. A stone 
 pitcher of liquor was now his constant attendant when he 
 pulled on board to weigh his anchor ; which said pitcher 
 for fear of accidents, he carried down into the cabin him- 
 self. As soon as sail was on the vessel, and her course 
 shaped, he followed his darling companion down into the 
 cabin, and until the contents were exhausted was never 
 sufficiently sober to make his appearance on deck ; so that 
 Newton Forster was, in fact, the responsible master of the 
 vessel. 
 
 The wind, which had been favourable at the time of 
 heaving up the anchor, changed, and blew directly in 
 their teeth, before they were well out of sight of the port 
 of Overton. On the third day they were stretching oft' 
 the land, to meet the first of the tide, under a light breeze 
 and smooth water, Avhen Newton perceived various objects 
 floating in the offing. A small thing is a good prize to a 
 coaster ; even an empty breaker is not to be despised ; and 
 Newton kept away a point or two, that he might close and 
 discover Avhat the objects were. Ke soon distinguished one 
 or two casks, swimming deeply, broken spars, and a variety 
 of other articles. When the sloop was in the midst of 
 them, Newton hove to, tossed out the little skjfF, and in 
 the course of an hour, unknown to his captain, who was 
 in bed sleeping off the effect of his last potations, brought 
 alongside, and contrived to parbuckle in, the casks, and as 
 many others of the floating articles as he could conveniently 
 stow upon her decks. The boat was again hoisted'in, by the 
 united exertions of himself and his crew, consisting of one 
 man and one boy ; and the sloop, wearing round, reached 
 in for the land. 
 
 It was evident to Newton that some large vessel had 
 lately been wrecked, for the spars were fresh in the fracture, 
 and clean — not like those long in the Mater, covered with 
 sea-weed, and encircled by a shoal of fish, who, finding 
 sustenance from the animalcula) collected, follow the float-
 
 32 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 ing pieces of wood up and down, as their adopted parent, 
 wherever they may be swept by the inconstant winds and 
 tides. 
 
 Newton examined the heels of the spars, but they were 
 not marked with the name of the vessel to which they had 
 belonged. The two casks had only initials branded upon 
 the heads ; but nothing could be found which would desig- 
 nate the owners of the property. A large trunk riveted 
 his attention ; but he would not open it initil the master 
 of the vessel came upon deck. Having ascertained by 
 spiling that the contents of the casks Avere real Jamaica, 
 he went down into the cabin to announce what he knew 
 would be most grateful intelligence. 
 
 It Avas some time before Newton could rouse his stupi- 
 fied senior. 
 
 " Spars — wrecked ! " 
 
 " What spars ? D — n the wreck !" growled old Thomp- 
 son (for such was his name), as he turned his back in no 
 very ceremonious manner, and recommenced his snore. 
 
 " There 's a trunk besides, sir — a large trunk ; but I 
 did not open it, as you were not on deck. A large trunks 
 and rather heavy." 
 
 " Trunk ! — well, what then ? Trunk ! — oh, d — n 
 the trunk ! — let me go to sleep," muttered the master. 
 
 " There 's two large casks, too, sir ; I 've spiled them, 
 and they prove to be puncheons of rum," bawled Newton, 
 who pertinaciously continued. 
 
 " Eh ; what ? — casks ! what casks }" 
 
 '" Two puncheons of rum." 
 
 " Rum ! — did you say rum ? " cried old Thompson, 
 lifting his head off' the pillow, and staring stupidly at New- 
 ton ; " where ? " 
 
 " On deck. Two casks : we picked them up as we were 
 standing off" the land." 
 
 " Picked them up .f" — are they on board ? " inquired 
 the master, sitting upright in his bed, and rubbing his 
 eyes. 
 
 " Yes, they 're safe on board. Won't you come on 
 deck ? " 
 
 " To be sure I will Two puncheons^ of rum, you
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 33 
 
 said ?" — and old Thompson gained his feet, and reeled to 
 the companion ladder, holding on by all fours, as he climbed 
 up without his shoes. 
 
 When the master of the sloop had satisfied himself as tc 
 the contents of the casks, which he did by taking about 
 half a tumbler of each, Newton proposed that the trunk 
 should be opened. " Yes," replied Thompson, who had 
 drawn off a mug of the spirits, with which he was about 
 to descend to the cabin, " open it, if you like, my boy. You 
 have made a hon prise to-day, and your share shall be the 
 trunk; so you may keep it, and the things that are stowed 
 away in it, for your trouble : but don't forget to secure 
 the casks till we can stow them away below. We can't 
 break bulk now ; but the sooner they are down the better ; 
 or we shall have some quill-driving rascal on board, Avith 
 his fotsam and jetsam, for the Lord knows who ; " and 
 Thompson, to use his own expression, went down again 
 " to lay his soul in soak*" 
 
 Reader, do you know the meaning of flotsam ana jet- 
 sam ? None but a lawyer can, for it is old law language. 
 Now, there is a slight difference between language in 
 general and law language. The first was invented to 
 enable us to explain our own meaning, and comprehend 
 the ideas of others ; whereas, the second was invented with 
 the view that we should not be able to understand a word 
 about it. In former times, when all law, except club law, 
 was in its infancy, and practitioners not so erudite, or so 
 thriving as at present, it was thought advisable to render it 
 unintelligible by inventing a sort of lingo, compounded of 
 bad French, grafted upon worse Latin, forming a mongrel 
 and incomprehensible race of words, with French heads and 
 Latin tails, which answered the purpose intended — that 
 of mystification. — Flotsam and jetsam are of this breed. 
 Flot, derived from the French flottaut, floating ; and jet, 
 from the verb jetcr, to throw up ; both used in seignoral 
 rights, granted by kings to favourites, empowering them ti 
 take possession of the property of any man who migh. 
 happen to be unfortunate, which was in those times tanta- 
 mount to being guilty. I dare say, if one could see the 
 deed thus empowering them to confiscate the goods and
 
 34' NEWTON FOUSTKR , 
 
 chattels of others for their own use, according to the word- 
 ing of the learned clerks in those days, it would run thus : — 
 " Omnium quod flotsam et jetsam, et every thing else-um, 
 quod findetes ;" in plain English, " every thing floating 
 or thrown up, and every thing else you may pick up." 
 Now the admiral of the coast had this piratical privilege : 
 and as, in former days, sextants and chronometers were 
 unknown, sea-faring men incurred more risk than they 
 do at present, and the wrecks which strewed the coast were 
 of very great value. I had a proof the other day that this 
 right is still exacted : that is as far as regards property 
 unclaimed. I had arrived at Plymouth from the Western 
 Islands. When we hove up our anchor at St. Michael's, 
 we found another anchor and cable hooked most lovingly 
 to our own, to the great joy of the first-lieutenant who pro- 
 posed buying silk handkerchiefs for every man in the ship, 
 and expending the residue in paint. But we had not been 
 at anchor m Plymouth Sound more than twenty-four 
 hours, and he hardly had time to communicate with the 
 gentlemen-dealers in marine stores, when I received a 
 notification from some lynx-eyed agent of the present 
 admiral of the coast (who is a lawyer, I believe), request- 
 ing the immediate delivery of the anchor and cable, upon 
 the plea of his seignoral rights of flotsam and jetsam. 
 Now the idea was as preposterous as the demand was 
 impudent. We had picked i^rt the anchor in the road- 
 stead of a foreign power, abou^ fifteen hundred miles dis- 
 tant from the English coast. 
 
 We are all lawyers, now, on board ship ; so I gave him 
 one of my legal answers, " that in the first place, flotsam 
 meant floating, and anchors did not float ; in the second 
 place, that jetsam meant thrown up, and anchors never 
 were thrown up ; in the third and last place, / 'd see Mm 
 d — d first !" 
 
 My arguments were unanswerable. Counsel for the 
 plaintiff" (1 presume) threw up his brief, for we heard no 
 more of " Mr. Flotsam and Jetsam." 
 
 But to proceed : — The man and boy, who, with New- 
 ton, composed the Avhole crew, seemed perfectly to ac- 
 quiesce in the distribution made by the master of the sloop ;
 
 OR, THE JMERCHANT SERVICE. 35 
 
 taking it for granted that their silence, as to the liquor 
 being on board, would be purchased by a share of it, as long 
 as it lasted. 
 
 They repaired forward with a panikin from the cask, 
 with which they regaled themselves, while Newton stood 
 at the helm. In half an hour Newton called the boy aft 
 to steer the vessel, and lifted the trunk into the cabin 
 below, where he found that Thompson had finished the 
 major part of the contents of the mug, and was lying in a 
 state of drunken stupefaction. 
 
 The hasp of the lock was soon removed by a claw- 
 hammer, and the contents of the tnink exposed to New- 
 ton's view. They consisted chiefly of female wearing 
 apparel and child's linen ; but, with these articles there 
 was a large packet of letters, addressed to Madame Louise 
 de Montmorenci, the contents of which were a mystery to 
 New.toUj who did not understand French. There were 
 also a red morocco case, containing a few tliamond orna- 
 ments, and three or four crosses of different orders of 
 knighthood. All the wearing apjiarel of the lady was 
 marked with the initials -L. M., while those appertaining 
 to the infant were marked with the letters J. F. 
 
 After a careful examination, Newton spread out the 
 clothes to dry, over the cabin lockers and table; and de- 
 positing the articles of value in a safe place, he returned 
 on deck. Although Thompson had presented him with 
 the trunk and its contents, he felt that they could not be 
 considered as his property, and he determined to replace 
 every thing, and, upon his return, consult his father as . to 
 the proper measures which should be taken to discover 
 who were the lawful owners. 
 
 The sloop, under the threction of Newton, had continued 
 her course for two days against the adverse, yet light 
 breeze, when the weather changed. The wind still held 
 to the same quarter : but the sky became loaded with 
 clouds, and the sun set with a dull red glare, which prog- 
 nosticated a gale from the N. W. ; and before morning 
 the vessel was pitching through a short chopping sea. By 
 noon the gale was at its height ; and Newton, perceiving 
 that the sloop did not " hold her own," went down to 
 T> 9.
 
 36 NE'.tTON FORSTER ; 
 
 rouze the master, to inquire what stejis should be taken, as 
 he considered it advisable to bear up ; and the only port 
 under their lee for many miles was one, with the naviga- 
 tion of which he was himself unacquainted. 
 
 The vessel was under close-reefed mainsail and storm 
 foresail, almost buried in the heavy sea, which washed over 
 the deck from forward to the companion hatch, when New- 
 ton went down to rouse the besotted Thompson, who, 
 having slept through the night without having had recourse 
 to additional stimulus, was more easy to awaken than be ■ 
 fore. 
 
 " Eh ! what ? — blows hard — whew ! — so it does. 
 How's the wind?" said the master, throwing his feet out- 
 side the standing bed-place, as he sat up. 
 
 " N.W., veering to N.N. W. in the squalls. — We have 
 lost good ten miles since yesterday evening, and are close 
 to Dudden Sands," replied Newton. " I think we must 
 bear up, for the gale shows no signs of bi-eaking." 
 
 " Well, I'll be on deck in a moment, my boy," rejoined 
 Thompson, who was now quite himself again, and was 
 busy putting on his shoes, the only articles which had been 
 removed when he turned in. ''Go you up, and see that 
 they keep her clean, full and bye — and those casks well 
 secured. — Dudden Sands — awkward place too — but I've 
 not been forty years a-boxing about this coast for no- 
 thing." 
 
 In a minute Thompson made his appearance on deck, 
 and steadying himself by the weather topmast backstay, 
 fixed his leaden eyes upon the land on the quarter. — "All 
 right younker, that's the head, sure enough; " then turn- 
 ing his face to the wind, which lifted up his gray curling 
 locks, and bore them out horizontally from his fur cap, 
 " and it's a devil of a gale, sure enough. — It may last a 
 month of Sundays for aU 1 know. — Up with the helm, 
 Tom. — Ease off' the main sheet, handsomely, my lad — 
 not too much. — Now, take in the slack, afore she jibes;" 
 and the master ducked under the main boom and took 
 his station on the other side of the deck. " Steady as you 
 go now. — Newton, take the helm. — D'ye see that bluif.'' 
 ' — ketp lier right for it. Tom, you and the boy rouse the
 
 on, Tin: JiKriciiANT siatvicE. ^i 
 
 cable up — get about ten fathoms on deck, and bend it. — 
 You'll find a bit of seizing and a inarline-spikt^ in the 
 locker abaft." — The sloop scudded before the gale, and in 
 less than two hours was close to the headland pointed out 
 by the master. " Now, Newton, we must hug the point 
 or we shall not fetch — clap on the main sheet here, all of 
 us. — Luff^ you may handsomely. — That's all right; we 
 are past the Sand-head, and shall be in smooth water in a 
 jifFy. — Steady, so-o. — Now ibr a drop of swissle." cried 
 Thompson, who considered that he had kept sober quite 
 long enough, and proceeded to the cask of rum lashed to 
 leeward. As he knelt down to pull out the spile, the 
 sloop, which had been brought to the wind, was struck on 
 her broadside by a heavy sea which careened her to her 
 gunnel ; the lashings of the weather cask gave way, and it 
 flew across the deck, jamming the unfortunate Thompson, 
 who knelt against the one to leeward, and then bounding 
 overboard. The old man gave a heavy groan, and fell 
 upon his back ; the man and boy ran to his assistance, and 
 by the directions of Newton, Avho could not quit the helm, 
 carried liim below, and placed him on his bed. In a few 
 minutes the sloop was safe at anchor, in smooth water, and 
 Newton ran down into the cabin. Thompson's head had 
 been crushed against the chime of the cask ; for an hour 
 or two he breathed heavily ; and then — he was no more ! 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 ■1 
 
 The Iiiilian weed, unknown to nneicnt times. 
 
 Nature's clioice gift, whose acrinioiilous limie 
 
 Extracts superfluons juices, and refines 
 
 The blood disteniper'd from its noxious salts; 
 
 Friend to the spirit, which with vapours bland 
 
 It gently mitigates — companion lit 
 
 Of" a good pot of porter." PiiiLLipa. 
 
 There 's a pot of good double beer, neighbour, 
 
 Drink Shakspeare. 
 
 The next day the remains of old Thompson were carried 
 
 on shore in the long-boat, and buried in the churchyard of 
 
 I) 3
 
 38 NEWTON FOUSTEH •, 
 
 the small fishing town that was witiiin a mile of the port 
 where the sloop had anchored. Newton shi])ped another 
 man, and when the gale was over, continued his voyage; 
 which was accomplislied without further adventure. 
 
 Finding no cargo ready for him^ and anxious to deliver 
 up the vessel to the owner, who resided at Overton, he re- 
 turned in ballast, and communicated the intelligence of 
 Thompson's death ; which in so small a town was long the 
 theme of conversation, and the food of gossips. 
 
 Newton consulted with his father relative to the disposal 
 of the trunk ; but Nicholas could assist him but httle with 
 his advice. After many pros and cons, like all other diffi- 
 cult matters, it was postponed. — "Really, Newton, 1 can't 
 say. The property certainly is not yours, but still we are 
 not likely to find out the lawful owner. Bring the trunk 
 on shore, we'll nail it up, and perhaps we may hear some- 
 thing about it by and bye. AFe'U make some inquiries — 
 by and bye — when your mother " 
 
 " I think," interrupted Newton, " it would not be ad- 
 visable to acquaint my mother with the circumstance ; but 
 how to satisfy her curiosity on that point, I must leave to 
 you." 
 
 " To me, boy ! no ; I think that you had better manage 
 that, for you know you are only occasionally at home." 
 
 " Well, father, be it so," replied Newton, laughing : 
 but here comes Mr. Dragwell and Mr. Hilton, to consult 
 with us what ought to be done relative to the effects of 
 poor old Thompson. He has neither kith nor kin, to the 
 ninety-ninth degree, that we can find out." 
 
 Mr. Dragwell was the curate of the parish ; a little fat 
 man with bow-legs, who always sat upon the edge of the 
 chair, leaning against the back, and twiddhng his thumbs 
 before him. He was facetious and good-tempered, but 
 was very dilatory in every thing. His greatest peculiarity 
 was, that although he had a hearty laugh for every joke, 
 he did not take the jokes of others at the time that they 
 were made. His ideas seemed to have the slow and silent 
 flow ascribed to the stream of lava (without its fire) : and 
 the consequence was, that although he eventually laughed 
 at a good thing, it was never at the same time with other
 
 OR, THE MKECIIANT SEIIVIOE. 39 
 
 people ; but in about a quarter or half a minute afterwards 
 (according to the difficulty of the analysis), when the 
 cause had been dismissed for other topics, he would burst 
 out in a hearty Pla, ha, ha ! 
 
 Mr. Hilton was the owner of the sloop : he was a tall, 
 corpulent man, who for many years had charge of a 
 similar vessel, until by " doing a little contraband," he 
 had pocketed a sufficient sum to enable him to purchase 
 one for himself. But the profits being more than sufficient 
 for his wants, he had for some time remained on shore, 
 old Thompson having charge of the vessel. He was a 
 good-tempered, jolly fellow, very fond of his pipe and his 
 pot, and much more fond of his sloop, by the employment 
 of which he was supplied with all his comforts. He 
 passed most of the day sitting at the door of his house, 
 which looked upon the anchorage, exchanging a few words 
 with every one that passed by, but invariably upon one 
 and the same topic — his sloop. If she was at anchor — 
 " There she is," he would say, pointing to her with the 
 stem of his pipe. If she was away, she had sailed on 
 such a day; — he expected her back at such a time. It 
 was a fair wind — it was a foul wind for his sloop. All 
 his ideas were engrossed by this one darling object, and it 
 was no easy task to divert him from it. 
 
 I ought to have mentioned that Mr. Dragwell, the 
 curate, was invariably accompanied by Mr. Spinney, the 
 clerk of the parish, a little spare man, with a few white 
 hairs straggling on each side of a bald pate. He always 
 took his tune whether in or out of church from his superior, 
 ejecting a small treble " He, he, he ! " in response to the 
 loud Ha, ha, ha ! of the curate. 
 
 " Peace be unto this house ! " observed the curate as he 
 crossed the threshold, for Mrs. Forster's character was 
 notorious ; then laughing at his own wit with a Ha, ha, 
 ha! 
 
 " He, he, he !" 
 
 " Ciood morning, Mr. Forster, how is your good lady ?" 
 
 " She's safe moored at last," interrupted Mr. Hilton. 
 
 " Who }'' demanded the curate, with surprise. 
 
 " Why, the sloop, to be sure." 
 D 4
 
 40 NEWTON FOKSTEK ; 
 
 " Oh ! I thought yoii meant the lady — Ha, ha, ha !'* 
 
 " He, he, he !" 
 
 "Won't yon sit down, gentlemen?" said Nicholas, 
 showing the way from the shop into the parlour, where 
 they found Mrs. Forster, who had just come in from the 
 back jiremises. 
 
 " Hope you're well, I\Ir. Curate," sharply observed the 
 lady, who could not be persuaded, even from respect for 
 the cloth, to be commonly civil — take a chair; it's all 
 covered with dust ! but that Betsy is such an idle slut !" 
 
 " Newton handles her, as well as any man going,"' ob- 
 served Hilton. 
 
 " Newton !" screamed the lady, turning to her son, with 
 an angry inquiring look — " Newton handles Betsy ! " 
 continued she, turning round to Hilton. 
 
 " Betsy ! no ; the sloop I meant, ma'am." 
 
 Newton burst out into a laugh, in which he was joined 
 by Hilton and his father. 
 
 " Sad business — sad indeed !" said Hilton, after the 
 merriment had subsided, " such an awful death !" 
 
 " Ha, ha, ha !" roared the curate, who had but just 
 then taken the joke about Betsy. 
 
 'He, he, he!" 
 
 " Nothing to laugh at, that I can see," observed Mrs. 
 Forster, snappishly. 
 
 " Capital joke, ma'am, I assure you!" rejoined the curate; 
 " but, Mr. Forster, we had better proceed to business. 
 Spinney, where are the papers?" The clerk produced an 
 inventory of the effects of the late Mr. Tliompson, and 
 laid them on the table. — " Melancholy thing, this, 
 ma'am," continued the curate^ '• very melancholy indeed ! 
 But we must all die." 
 
 " Yes, thank Heaven ! " muttered Nicholas, in an absent 
 manner. 
 
 " Thank Heaven, Mr. Forster !"' cried the lady, — 
 " wh)"^, do you wish to die ? " 
 
 " I was not exactly thinking about myself, my dear," 
 replied Nicholas — "I " 
 
 " Depend upon it she'll last a long while yet," inter- 
 rupted Mr. Hilton
 
 on, THE .niEKCllANT SRIIVIUE. 41 
 
 " Do you tliiiik so?" replied Nicholas, mournfully. 
 
 " Oh ! sure of it ; I stripped her the other day, and 
 examined her all over ; she 's as sound as ever," 
 
 Nicholas started, and stared Hilton in the face ; while 
 Newton, who perceived their separate train of thought, 
 tittered with delight. 
 
 " What are you talking of?" at last observed Nicholas. 
 
 " Of the sloop, to be sure," replied Hilton. 
 
 " I rather imagine you were come to consult about Mr. 
 Thompson's effects," observed Mrs. Forster, angrily — 
 " rather a solemn subject, instead of " 
 
 " Ha, lia, ha !" ejaculated the curate, who had just 
 taken the equivoque which had occasioned Newton's mirth. 
 
 ". He, he, he !" 
 
 This last merriment of ]\Ir. Dragwell appeared to the 
 lady to be such a pointed insult to her, that she bounded 
 out of the room, exclaiming, " that an alehouse would have 
 been a more suitable rendezvous." 
 
 The curate twiddled his thumbs, as the eyes of all the 
 party followed the exit of Mrs. Foi'ster ; aiul there were a 
 iew moments of silence. 
 
 "' Don't you find her a pleasant little craft, Forster?" 
 said Hilton, addressing Newton. 
 
 Nicholas Forster, who was in a brown study about his 
 wife, shook his head without lifting up his eyes, while 
 Newton nodded assent. 
 
 " Plenty of accommodation in her," continued Hilton. 
 — Another negative shake from Nicholas^ and assentent 
 nod from Newton. 
 
 " If I tiiought you could manage her, Forster," con- 
 tinued Hilton, — " tell me, what do you think yourself?" 
 
 " Oh, quite impossible !" replied Nicholas. 
 
 "Quite impossible, Mr. Forster! well, now, i've a 
 better opinion of Newton — I think he can.'' 
 
 ' ^Vhy, ycsj" replied Nicholas, " certainly better thviii 
 1 can ; but still she's " 
 
 " She 's a beauty, Mr. Forster." 
 
 " Mrs. Forster a beauty, cried Nicholas, looking at 
 Hilton with astonishment. 
 
 Newton and Hilton burst into a laugh. " No, no "
 
 42 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 said the latter, " I was talking about tlie sloop ; but we 
 liad better proceed to business. Suppose we have pipes, 
 Mr. Forster. Mr. Dragwell, what do you say ?" 
 
 " Ha, ha, ha !" roared the curate, who had just taken 
 the last joke. 
 
 " He, he, he !" 
 
 " Why, yes," continued the curate," I think it is a 
 most excellent proposition ; this melancholy affair requires 
 a great deal of consideration. I never compose so well as 
 I do with a pipe in my mouth : Mrs. Dragwell says that 
 she knows all ray best sermons by the smell of them ; 
 d'ye take — Ha, ha, ha ! " 
 
 " He, he, he ! " 
 
 The pipes, with the addition of a couple of pots of 
 porter, were soon procured from the neighbouring alehouse; 
 and while the parties are filling them, and pushing the 
 paper of tobacco from one to the other, I shali digress, 
 notwithstanding the contrary opinion of the other sex, in 
 praise of this most potent and delightful weed. 
 
 I love thee, whether thou appearest in the shape of a cigar, 
 or diest away in sweet perfume enshrined in the Mere- 
 shaum bowl ; 1 love thee with more than woman's love ! 
 Thou art a companion to me in solitude. I can talk and 
 reason with thee, avoiding loud and obstreperous argument. 
 Thou art a friend to me when in trouble, for thou advisest 
 in silence, and consolest with thy calm influence over the 
 perturbed spirit. 
 
 I know not how thy power has been bestowed upon 
 thee ; yet, if to harmonise the feelings, to allow the thoughts 
 to spring without control, rising like the white vapour 
 from the cottage hearth, on a morning that is sunny and 
 serene ; — if to impart that sober sadness over the spirit, 
 which inclines us to forgive our enemy, that calm philo- 
 sophy which reconciles us to the ingratitude and knavery 
 of the world, that heavenly contemplation whispering to us, 
 as we look around, that " All is good ; " — if these be 
 merits, they are thine, most potent weed. 
 
 What a quiet world would this be if every one would 
 smoke ! I suspect that the reason why the fairer sex decry 
 thee is, that thou art the cause of silence. The ancients
 
 OR, THK Wi;itCn.\NT SEllVICE. 4f3 
 
 knew thee not, or the lips of Ilaipociates would have been 
 closed with a cigar, and his fore-iiiiger removed from the 
 mouth unto the temple. 
 
 Half an hour was passed without any observation from 
 our party, as the room gradually filled with the volumes of 
 smoke which wreathed and curled in graceful lines, as 
 they ascended in obedience to the unchangeable laws of 
 nature. 
 
 Hilton's pipe was first exhausted ; he shook the ashes 
 on the table. " A very melancholy business, indeed ! " 
 observed he, as he refilled. The rest nodded a grand assent; 
 the pipe was relighted ; and all was silent as before. 
 
 Another pipe is empty. — " Looking at this inventory," 
 said the curate, "^ I should imagine the articles to be of no 
 great value. One fur cap, one round hat, one pair of j)lush 
 
 breeches, one ; they are not w6rth a couple of pounds 
 
 altogether," continued he, stuffing the tobacco into his pipe, 
 which he relighted, and no more was said. Nicholas was 
 the third in, or rather out. " It appears tome," observed 
 he ; — but what appeared is lost, as some new idea flitted 
 across his imagination, and he commenced his second pipe, 
 ■vithout further remark. 
 
 Some ten minutes after this, Mr. Spinny handed the pot 
 of porter to the curate, and subsequently to the rest of the 
 party. They all took largely, tlien puffed away as before. 
 
 How long this cabinet council might.have continued it is 
 impossible to say; but Silence, who was in "the chair," v/as 
 soon afterwards driven from his post of honour by the most 
 implacable of his enemies, " a woman's tongue." 
 
 " Well, Mr. Forster ! well, gentlemen ! do you mean to 
 poison me ? Have you made smell and dirt enough ? How 
 long is this to last, I should like to know ? " cried Mrs. 
 Forster, entering the room. " I tell you what, Mr. Forster, 
 you had better hang up a sign at once, and keep an ale- 
 house. Let the sign be a Fool's Head, like your own. I 
 wonder you are not ashamed of yours'^lf, Mr. Curate ; you 
 that ought to set an example to your parishioners ! " 
 
 But Mr. Dragwell did not admire such remonstrance ; 
 so taking his pipe out of his mouth, he retorted — "If 
 your husband does put up a sign, I recommend him to
 
 44 NEWTON loissiEn ; 
 
 stick you up as the " Good ^^'^oman ; '' that would be with- 
 out your head — Ua, ha, ha ! " 
 
 " He, he, he ! " 
 
 " He, he, he ! you pitiful 'natoniy," cried Mrs. Forster, 
 in a rage, turning to the clerk, as she dared not revenge 
 lierself upon the curate. Take that for your He, he, he ! 
 and she swung round the empty pewter-pot whicli she 
 snatched from the table, upon the bald pericranium of Mr. 
 Spinney, who tumbled off his chair, and rolled upon the 
 sanded floor. 
 
 The remainder of the party were on their legs in an 
 instant. Newton jerked the weapon out of his mother's 
 hands, and threw it in a corner of the room. Nicholas was 
 aghast : he surmised that his turn would come next -^ and 
 so it proved. — " An't you ashamed of yourself, Mr. Forster, 
 to see me treated in this way — bringing a parcel of 
 drunken men into the house to insult me .? Will you order 
 {liem out, or not, sir ? — Are we to have quiet or not ? " 
 
 "Yes, my love," replied Nicholas, confused, "yes, my 
 <ioar, by and bye, as soon as you're " 
 
 Mrs. J'orster darted towards her husband with the fe- 
 rocity of a mad cat. Hilton perceiving the danger of his 
 host, put out his leg so as to trip her up in her career, and 
 i-he fell flat upon her face on the floor. The violence of 
 the fall was so great, that she was stunned. Newton raised 
 her up ; and, with the assistance of his father (who ap- 
 proached with as much reluctance as a horse spurred 
 towards a dead tiger), carried her up stairs, and laid her 
 on her bed. 
 
 Poor Mr. Spinney was now raised from the floor. He still 
 remained stupified with the blow, although gradually re- 
 covering. Betsy came in to render assistance. " O dear, 
 Mr. Curate, do you think that he'll die? " 
 
 '' No, no ; bring some water, Betsy, and throw it in his 
 face." 
 
 " Better take him home as he is," replied Betsy, " and 
 say that he is killed ; when Missis hears it, she'll be 
 frightened out of her life. It will keep her quiet for some 
 time at least.'' 
 
 "An excellent idea, Betty ; we will punish her for her
 
 Oil, THK JIERCIIANT SKKVICE. 45 
 
 conduct," replied Hilton. The curate was delighted at the 
 plan, Mr. Spinney was placed in an arm-chair, covered 
 over with a table-cloth, and carried away to the parsonage 
 by two men, who were i)rovided by Betsy before Nicholas 
 or Newton had quitted the room where Mrs. Forster lay in 
 a deplorable condition : her sharp nose broken, and twisted 
 on one side ; her eyebrow cut open to the bone, and a 
 violent contusion on her forehead. In less than half an 
 hour it was spread through the whole town that Spinney 
 had been murdered by Mrs. Forster, and that his brains 
 were bespattered all over the shop windows ! 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 'I'hat she is mad, ' tis true : ' lis true, ' tis pity , 
 
 Ami pity ' tis, ' tis true : a foolish figure; 
 
 But farewell it, for I will use no art. 
 
 Mad let us grant her then ; and now remains 
 
 That we lind out the cause of this cifect. 
 
 Or ratiier say, the cause of this delect. Siiakspeabe. 
 
 Mu. l)uAGvvEr.rj has already made honourable mention of 
 his wife ; it will therefore only be necessary to add, that 
 he had one daughter, a handsome lively girl, engaged to a 
 Mr. Ilamsden, the new surgeon of the place, who had 
 stepped into tlie shoes and the good-will of one who had 
 retired from forty years' practice upon the good people of 
 Overton. Fanny Dragwell had many good qualities, and 
 many others which were rather doubtful. One of the latter 
 had jirocured her more enemies than at her age she had 
 any right to expect. It was what the French term " malice," 
 which bears a very different signification from the same 
 word in our own language. She delighted in all practical 
 jokes, and would carry them to an excess, at the very idea 
 of which others would be startled; but it must be acknow^- 
 ledged that she generally selected as her victims those who 
 from their conduct towards others richly deserved retaliation 
 The various tricks which she had played upon certain cross 
 t>Id spinsters, tatlers, scandalmongers., and backbiters, often
 
 46 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 were the theme of conversation and of mirth : but this de- 
 scription of espieglerie contains a most serious objection ; 
 which is, that to carry on a successful and well arranged 
 plot, there must be a total disregard of truth. Latterly, 
 Miss Fanny had had no one to practise upon except Mr. 
 Ramsden, during the period of his courtship — a period at 
 which women never appear to so much advantage, nor men 
 appear so silly. But even for this, the time was past, 
 as lattei'ly she had become so much attached to him that 
 distress on his part was a source of annoyance to herself. 
 When therefore her father came home, narrating the cir- 
 cumstances which had occurred, and the j)lan which had 
 been meditated, Fanny entered gaily into the scheme. Mrs, 
 Forster had long been her abhorrence ; and an insult to 
 Mr. Ramsden, who had latterly been designated by Mrs. 
 Forster as a "Pill-gilding Puppy," was not to be forgotten. 
 Her active and inventive mind immediately conceived a 
 plan which would enable her to carry the joke much farther 
 than the original projectors had intended. Ramsden, who 
 had been summoned to attend poor Mr. Spinney, was her 
 sole confidant, and readily entered into a scheme which was 
 pleasing to his mistress, and promised revenge for the 
 treatment he had received; and which, as Miss Dragwell 
 declared, would be nothing but retributive justice upon 
 Mrs. Forster. 
 
 Late in the evening, a message was received from New- 
 ton Forster, requesting that Mr. Ramsden -would attend his 
 mother. He had just visited the old clerk, who was now 
 sensible, and had nothing to complain of except a deep cut 
 on his temple from the rim of the pewter-pot. After re- 
 ceiving a few parting injunctions from Miss Dragwell, Mr. 
 Ramsden quitted the parsonage. 
 
 " I am afraid it's a very bad business, Mr. Forster," re- 
 plied the surgeon to Newton, who had been interrogating 
 him relative to the injury received by Mr. Spinney. " Evi- 
 dent concussion of the brain: he may live — or he may 
 not ; a few days will decide the point : he is a poor feeble 
 old man/' 
 
 Newton sighed as he reflected upon the disaster and dis-
 
 on, THE MERCHANT SEUVICR. 4" 
 
 grace which might ensue from his mother's violence ot 
 temper, 
 
 '•Eh! what, Mr. llamsilen ?" said Nicholas, who had 
 been for some time contemplating the battered visage of his 
 spouse. " Did you say, she'll die?" 
 
 " No, no, Mr. Forster, there's no fear of Mrs. Forster, 
 she'll do well enough. She'll be up and about again in a 
 day or two, as lively as ever." 
 
 " God forbid !' muttered the absent Nicholas. 
 
 ' Mr. Forster, see if I don't pay you off for that, as 
 soon as I'm up again," muttered the recumbent lady, as 
 well as the bandages passed under her chin Avould permit 
 her. 
 
 ' Pray call early to-morrow, Mr, Ramsden, and let us 
 knov/ how Mr, Spinney is going on," said Newton, ex- 
 tending his hand as the surgeon rose to depart, Mr. 
 Ramsden shook it warmly, and quitted the house : he had 
 left them about half an hour when Eetsy made her ap- 
 pearance wath some fomentations, which had been prepared 
 in the kitchen. Out of revenge for sundry blows daily re- 
 ceived, and sundry epithets hourly bestowed upon her by 
 her mistress, the moment she entered she exclaimed, in a 
 half-crying tone, " O dear, Mr, Newton ! there's such 
 shocking news just come from the parsonage ; Mr. Spinney 
 is just dead — and my Missis will be hanged !'' 
 
 Mrs. Forster said not a word ; she quailed under dread 
 of the report being correct. Newton and his father looked 
 at each other ; their mute anguish was expressed by cover- 
 ing up their faces with their hands. 
 
 AVhen Hilton and the curate arranged their plans for the 
 mortification of Mrs. Forster, it was considered advisable 
 that Newton (who was not so easily to be imposed upon) 
 should be removed out of the way. Hilton had already 
 stated his intention-to give him in charge of the vessel, and 
 he now proposed sending him for a cargo of shingle, which 
 was lying ready for her, about fifty miles down the coast, 
 and which was to be dehvered at Waterford. At an early 
 liour, on the ensuing morning, he called at Forster's house. 
 Newton, who had not taken off his clothes, came out to 
 meet him.
 
 48 NEWTON lonsTER ; 
 
 " Well. Newton, how is your mother?" said Hiltton 
 " I hope you are not angry witli me : I certainly was the 
 occasion of the accident, but I could not bear to see your 
 worthy father treated in that manner." 
 
 " I blush to acknowledge, Mr. Hilton, that she deserved 
 it all," replied Newton ; '• but I am very much alarmed 
 about the condition of Mr. Spinney, Have you heard this 
 morning ? " 
 
 " No ; but between ourselves, Newton, doctors always 
 make the worst of their cases. I never heard of a pewter 
 pot killing a man ; he'll do well enough, never fear. I 
 came to tell you that I 've a letter last night from llepton, 
 who says that the shingle must be delivered before the tenth 
 of next month, or the contract will be void. He desires 
 that I will send the sloop directly, or he must employ an- 
 other craft. Now, 1 think you had better start at once; 
 there's a nice fair wind for you, and you'll be down afore 
 night." 
 
 " Why, really, Mr. Hilton, I do not exactly like to leave 
 home just now," replied Newton, thoughtfully. 
 
 "^ Well, as you please, Mr. Forster," rejoined Hilton, 
 with apparent displeasure. " I have offered you the com- 
 mand of the vessel, and now you object to serve my interests 
 on the very first occasion, merely because there are a couple 
 of broken heads !" 
 
 " I am wrong, most certainly," replied Newton ; I beg 
 your pardon — I will just speak a word or two to my father^, 
 and be on board in less than half an hour." 
 
 " I will meet you there," said Hilton, " and bring your 
 papers. Be as quick as you can, or you'll lose the first of 
 the tide." 
 
 Newton returned to the house; his father made no ob- 
 jection to his departure; and, in fulfilment of his promise, 
 Newton was ready to start, when he encountered Ramsden 
 at the door. 
 
 " Mr. Ramsden," said Newton, " I am requested by the 
 owner of my vessel to sail immediately ; but if you think 
 that the life of Mr. Spinney fs seriously in danger, I will 
 throw up the command of the vessel lather than leave my
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SKllVICE. 43 
 
 mother under sucli an accumulation of disasters. I beg as 
 a favour that you will not disguise the truth." 
 
 '' You may sail this minute, if you please, Mr. Forster ; 
 I am happy to be able to relieve your mind. Mr. Spinney 
 is doing very well, and you '11 see him at his desk on the 
 first Sunday of your return." 
 
 ^'^ Then I am off: good-bye, Mr. Ramsden ; many 
 thanks. " 
 
 With a lightened heart, Newton leapt into the skifFwliich 
 was to carry him on board of the sloop ; and in less than 
 half an hour was standing away to the s'outhvvard before a 
 fine wind, to execute the orders which he had received. 
 
 Ramsden remained a lew minutes at the door, until he 
 saw Newton ascend tlie side of the vessel ; then he entered, 
 and was received by Betsy. 
 
 " Well, Betsy, you agreed to make IVIrs. Forster believe 
 that Mr. Spinney was dead; but we little thought that such 
 woidd really be the case." 
 
 " Lord love you, sir ! why you don't say so }" 
 
 "■ I do, indeed, Betsy; but mind, we must keep it a SC' 
 cret for the present, until we can get Mrs. Forster out of 
 the way. How is she this morning } " 
 
 "Oh, very stiff, and very cross, sir." 
 
 " I '11 go up to her," replied Ramsden ; "but recollect, 
 Betsy, that you do not mention it to a soul ;" and Ramsden 
 ascended the stairs. 
 
 " AV^ell, Mrs. Forster, liow do you feel this morning ? do 
 you think you could get up .''" 
 
 '^'^Get up, Mr. Ramsden ! not to save my soul — I can't 
 even turn on my side." 
 
 "Very sorry to hear it, indeed," replied the surgeon; 
 " I was in hopes that you might have been able to bear a 
 journey." 
 
 " Bear a journey, Mr. Ramsden ! why bear a journey } " 
 
 " I am sorry to inform you that Mr. Spinney s gone — 
 poor old man ! There must be a coroner's inquest. Now, 
 it would be as well if you were not to he found, for the 
 verdict will be ' A^'ilful Murder ! ' " 
 
 " O dear ! O dear ! " exclaimed Mrs. Forster, jumping 
 
 K
 
 50 NEWTON rORSTER , 
 
 out of her bed with fright, and wiinging her hands : "What 
 can I do? — what can 1 do?" 
 
 "At present it is a secret, Mrs. Forster, but it cannot be 
 so long. Miss Dragwel], who feels for you very much, 
 begged me not to say a word about it. She will call and 
 consult with you, if you would like lo see lier. Sad thing 
 indeed, Mrs. Forster, to he placed in such a situation by a 
 foohsh husband." 
 
 "You may well say that, Mr. Ramsden," replied the 
 lady, with asperity; " he is the greatest /oo/ that ever God 
 made ! Every one knows what a sweet temper I was before 
 I married ; but flesh and blood cannot bear what I am 
 subjected to.'' 
 
 " Would you like to see Miss Dragwell ?" 
 
 " Yes, very much ; I always thought her a very nice 
 girl ; — a little wild — a little forward indeed, and apt to 
 be impertinent ; but still, rather a nice girl." 
 
 " Well, then, I will tell her to call, and the sooner the 
 better, for when it is known, the whole town wiU be in an 
 uproar. I should not be surprised if they attacked the 
 house — the people will be so indignant." 
 
 " I don't wonder at it," replied Mrs. Forster ; " nothing 
 can excuse such provocation as I receive from my husband, 
 stupid wretch !" 
 
 " Good morning, Mrs. Forster ; do you think then that 
 you could bear moving ? " 
 
 " O yes ! O yes ! But where a)n I to go ? " 
 
 ' That I really cannot form an idea — you had better 
 consult with Miss Dragwell. — Depend upon it„ Mrs. For- 
 ster, that I will be most happy to render you all my assist- 
 ance in this unfortunate dilemma." 
 
 " You're very good," snarled Mrs. Forster: and Rams- 
 den quitted the room. 
 
 I have one or two acquaintances, to whom, if I wish a 
 report to be circulated, I immediately impart the substance 
 as a most profound secret ; and 1 find that by these means 
 it obtains a much more extensive circulation than if I sent 
 jt to the newspapers. 
 
 Ramsden was aware of Betsy's cackling propensities, and 
 long before he quitted Mrs. Forster, it was generally be-
 
 OK, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 51 
 
 lieved throughout the good town of Overton that Mr. Spin- 
 ney, although he had not been killed outright, as reported 
 in the first instance, had subsequently died of the injuries 
 received from this modern Xantippe. 
 
 Mrs. Forster had half an hour to reflect upon her sup- 
 posed awkward situation ; and to drive away thought, had 
 sent for Nicholas, whom she loaded with the bitterest in- 
 vectives, wlien Miss Dragwell \vas announced. 
 
 '' See, sir," continued Mrs. Forster, " the condition to 
 •which you have reduced a fond and faithful wife — one 
 that has so studied your interests; one " 
 
 " Yes, indeed," added Miss Dragwell, who heard the 
 attack as she ascended the stairs, and took up the cause of 
 Mrs. Forster to obtain her confidence — " yes, indeed, 
 Mr. Forster, see the consequences of your folly, your 
 smoking, and your drinking. • — Pray leave the room, sir ; 
 I wonder how INIrs. Forster can bear the sight of you ! " 
 
 Nicholas stared, and Vvas about to throw in a defached 
 word or two, by way of Vindication, when a furious " lie- 
 gone !" from his wife occasioned a jirecipitate retreat. 
 
 " We have all been consulting about this sad business, 
 my dear Mrs. Forster," commenced Miss Dragwell; "and 
 after much consideration have hit upon the only plan by 
 which you may escape the penalty of the law. Yes, my 
 dear ma'am," continued Miss Dragwell, in the most bland 
 and affectionate voice, " it is luiwise to conceal the truth 
 from you ; the depositions of my father and Mr. Hilton, 
 when they are called upon, will be such that ' "Wilful 
 Murder !' must be returned, and you — (the young lady 
 faltered, and put up her handkerchief) — you must inevit- 
 ably be hanged ! " 
 
 " Hanged !" screamed I\Irs. Forster. 
 
 " Yes, hanged — ' hanged by the neck until you are 
 dead ! and the Lord have mercy upon your soul ! ' that 
 will be your sentence," replied the young lady, sobbing ;— 
 " such an awful, such a disgraceful death for a woman 
 too !." . 
 
 "O Lord, O Lord!" cried Mrs. Forster, who was 
 now really frightened. " What will become of me r " 
 
 " You will go to another and a better world, as my
 
 52 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 papa says in his sermons ; I believe that the pnin is not 
 very great — but the disgrace " 
 
 Mrs. Forster burst into tears. " Save nie ! save me, 
 Miss Dragwell ! — Oh ! Oh 1 that stupid Nicholas, Oh ! 
 Oh ! " 
 
 " My dear Mrs. Forster, we have all agreed at the par- 
 sonage that there is but one method." 
 
 "Name it, my dear Miss Dragwell, name it!" cried 
 Mrs. Forster, imjiloringly. 
 
 " You must pretend to be mad, and then there will be 
 a verdict of insanity ; but you must carry it through every 
 thing, or it will be thought you are shamming. Mr. 
 
 Ramsden is acquainted with Dr. B , who has charge of 
 
 the asylum at D . It is only nine miles off: he will 
 
 take you there, and when the coroner's inquest is over you 
 can return. It will be supposed then to have been only 
 temporary derangement. Do you like the proposal ? " 
 
 " ^^^hy, I have been mad for a long time," replied 
 Mrs. Forster ; " the conduct of my husband and my son 
 has been too much for my nerves ; but I don't like the 
 idea of actually going to a madhouse. — Could not " 
 
 '' O dear, marm !" cried Betsy, running into the room, 
 " thei-e 's a whole posse of people about the house ; they 
 want to take you to the town jail, for murdering Mr. Spin- 
 ney. What shall I say to them ? I 'm feared they '11 
 break in." 
 
 '• Go and tell them that Mrs. Forster is too ill to be 
 taken out of bed, and that she is out of her senses — d'ye 
 hear, Betsy, tell them all she is stark staring mad!" 
 
 " Yes, I will, marm," replied Betsy, wiping her eyes as 
 she left the room. 
 
 Miss Dragwell walked to the window. Although the 
 report spread by Betsy had collected a crowd opposite the 
 house, still there was no attempt at violence. 
 
 " I 'm afraid that it's too late," said the young lady, 
 turning from the window. " What a crowd ! and how 
 angry they seem to be ! you must be hanged now !" 
 
 '• O no ! I 11 be mad — I '11 be any thing, my dear 
 Miss Dragwell." 
 
 '' Well, then, we must be quick — don't put your gown
 
 OBj THE MJ3BCHANT SERVICE. 53 
 
 on — petticoats are better — I '11 dress you up.' ' Miss 
 Dragwell rummagetl the drawers, and collecting a variety 
 of feathers and coloured ribbons, pinned them over the 
 bandages which encircled Mrs. Forster's head; then pulling 
 out a long-tailed black coat of her husband's, which had 
 been condemned, forced her arms through it^ and buttoned 
 it in front. " That will do for the present," cried Miss 
 Dragwell ; " now here 's the cat, take it in your arms, go 
 to the window and nurse it like a baby. I '11 throw it 
 open — you come forward and make them a curtsy ; that 
 will spread the report through the town that you are mad, 
 and the rest will then be easy." 
 
 " Oh ! I can't — I can't go to the window, 1 can't 
 indeed." 
 
 " I '11 open the window and speak to the people," said 
 Miss Dragwell ; and she threw up the sash, informing the 
 gaping multitude that Mrs. Forster was quite out of her 
 senses, but perfectly harmless." 
 
 " Perfectly harmless^ after killing a man- observed 
 one of the party below. 
 
 " They won't believe me, Mrs. Forster; come, you 
 must, or you will certainly be hanged." 
 
 Urged by her fears, Mrs. Forster approached the window, 
 and showed herself to the astonished crowd. " Curtsy 
 to them," said Miss Dragwell ; holding her handkerchief 
 before her mouth. 
 
 Mrs. Forster curtsied. 
 
 " Smile upon them," continued the malicious young lady. 
 
 Mrs. Forster grinned horribly. 
 
 " Now dance your cat." 
 
 Mrs. Forster obeyed the mjunction. 
 
 " Now give a loud shriek, and toss the cat out of 
 window." 
 
 Mrs. Forster uttered a hideous yell, and threw the 
 animal at the heads of the spectators, who retreated with 
 alarm in every direction. 
 
 " Now burst into a fit of laughter, curtsy to them, 
 and wave your hand, and that will be sufficient." 
 
 Mrs. Forster obeyed the last order, and Miss Dragwell 
 shut the window. In a few minutes the report spread 
 E 3
 
 54 NEWTON lORSTEU j 
 
 that Mrs. Forster had gone out of lier senses ; and the 
 murder of Mr. Spinney, a topic -which was nearly ex- 
 hausted, was dismissed for the time to dwell and comment 
 upon the second catastrophe. 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 Mad as the sea and wind, when both contend which is the mightier. 
 
 SlIAKSPEARE. 
 
 " So far we have succeeded, my dear Mrs. Forster," said 
 Miss Dragwell ; " I will now return home, and come back 
 as soon as I can with the post-chaise. Mr. Ramsden's 
 servant shall come with me to conduct you to the asylum, 
 and I trust in a quarter of an hour to see you clear of 
 these foolish people of Overton, who think that you are 
 the party in fault : you had better remain in your room, 
 and not appear again at the window ; the crowd will dis- 
 perse when they are tired of watching : good-bye, my dear 
 Mrs. Forster, good-bye." 
 
 Mrs. Forster was in too sulky a humour to vouchsafe 
 an answer ; and Miss Dragwell quitted the house. Betsy 
 had taken advantage of the turmoil and the supposed 
 lunacy of her mistress, to gossip in the neighbourhood. 
 Nicholas Forster was in the shop, but took no notice of 
 Miss Dragwell as she passed through. He appeared to 
 have forgotten all that had occurred, and was very busy 
 filing at his bench. There we must leave him, and follow 
 the motions of the mischief-loving Miss Dragwell. 
 
 Upon her return, the party collected at the parsonage 
 considered that they had proceeded far enough ; but Miss 
 DragweU thought otherwise ; she had made up her mind 
 that Mrs. Forster should pass a day or two in the Lunatic 
 Asylum, and she felt assured that Mr. Ramsden, through 
 whose assistance her intention must be accomplished, would 
 not venture to dispute her wishes. 
 
 Her father, with a loud Ha, ha, ha ! proposed that Mr.
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICB. 
 
 55 
 
 Spinney should appear as a ghost by the bedside of Mrs. 
 Forster, wrapped up in a sheet, with a He, he, he ! and 
 that thus the diversion should end ; but this project was 
 overruled by Mr. Spinney, who protested that nothing 
 should induce him again to trust himself, with a He, he, 
 he ! in the presence of Mrs. Forster. 
 
 Ramsden, although well acquainted with Doctor Bed- 
 dington, who had charge of the asylum, was not sure that 
 he would be pleased with their freak, and earnestly dis- 
 suaded his intended from proceeding any fartlier. 
 
 '^' It is uyeless to argue, my dear George, I am Quixote 
 enough to revenge the injuries of those wiio have been 
 forced to submit to her temper ; and moreover I hope to 
 effect a cure. Desperate diseases, you must be aware as a 
 medical man, require desperate remedies. I consider that 
 a termagant and a lunatic are during their paroxysms on a 
 par, as rational behaviour in either party may be considered 
 as a lucid interval. Let her, if it be only for one liour, 
 witness herself reflected in the various distorted mirrors of 
 perverted mind ; and if she has any conscience whatever, 
 good will spring from evil. I joined this plot from a love 
 of mischief; but I carry it on from a feeling that favour- 
 able results will be produced." 
 
 '' But my dear Fanny " 
 
 ''I will have it so, llamsden, so don't attempt to dis- 
 suade me ; we are not married yet, and 1 must not be 
 thwarted in my short supremacy. Surely you ought not 
 to be displeased at my desire to ' tame a shrew.' I give 
 a fair promise not to fall into an error which I so ardently 
 detest : now, send for the chaise, write a letter to Doctor 
 Beddington, and leave me to arrange with Mrs. Forster." 
 
 Ramsden, like many others when teased by a pretty 
 woman, consented against his will ; he wrote a letter to 
 Doctor Beddington, explaining circumstances, and request- 
 ing his pardon for the liberty which he had been persuaded 
 to take. 
 
 • Miss Dragwell, as soon as the letter was sealed, put on 
 
 her bonnet, and taking Mr. Ramsden's servant with her, 
 
 stepped into the chaise, and drove to the house of Mr. 
 
 Nicholas Forster. She found Mrs. Forster squatted on 
 
 £ 4
 
 56 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 the bed in her ludicrous attire^ awaiting her return with 
 impatience. 
 
 " Oh ! Mrs. Forster, I have had such trouble, such 
 difficulty ; but Mr. Ramsden has been persuaded at last. 
 There is a letter to Dr. Beddington, and Mr. Ranisden's 
 servant is in the chaise at the door ; the sooner you are off 
 the better ; the people are so outrageous, and call you such 
 shocking names." 
 
 " Do they ? " replied Mrs. Forster, whose wrath kindled 
 at the information. 
 
 " Yes, indeed ; and that wretch Betsy declares that 
 she'll put the rope over your neck with her own hands.'' 
 
 *^'Does she?" cried Mrs. Forster, her eyes twinkling 
 with rage. 
 
 " Yes ; and your husband, your foolish husband, says 
 that he'll be able to make his improvement in the duplex, 
 now that you'll be hanged." 
 
 " He does, does he ? " replied Mrs. Forster, catching 
 her breath, and grintling her teeth as she jumped off the 
 bed. 
 
 " Now, my dear Mrs. Forster, it 's no use minding 
 what they say ; all you have to do is to escape as soon as 
 possible; the magistrate's warrant may arrive this minute, 
 and then it will be too late ; so come down at once : — 
 how lucky that you have escaped ! it must be a dreadful 
 thing to be hanged ! 
 
 This last remark, always brought forward by Miss Drag- 
 well, when she had a point to carry, induced Mrs. Forster 
 to hasten down stairs to the post-chaise, which she found 
 already occupied by Mr. Ramsden's servant. As soon as 
 she entered, it was driven off with speed in the direction 
 already communicated to the post-boy. 
 
 We shall leave the town of Overton to recover its quiet, 
 for such a bustle had not occurred for many years, and 
 Miss Dragwell to exult in the success of her plot, while we 
 follow Mrs. Forster to her new quarters. 
 
 Tlie chaise rattled on, Mr. Ramsden's servant crouching 
 in a corner, as far as possible from Mrs. Forster, evidently 
 about as well pleased with his company as one would be in 
 a pitfall with a tiger. At last it stopped at the door of
 
 ORj THK MERCHANT SERVICE. 57 
 
 the Lunatic Asylum, and the post-boy dismounting from his 
 reeking horses, pulled violently at a large bell, which an- 
 swered with a most lugubrious tolling, and struck aAve into 
 the breast of Mrs. Forster. 
 
 When the door was opened Mr. Ramsden's servant 
 alighted, and went in to deliver his letter to the doctor 
 The doctor was not at home ; he had obtained his fur- 
 lough of three weeks, and was very busy with his fishing- 
 rod some thirty miles distant ; but the keepers were in at- 
 tendance, and, as Mr. Ramsden's servant stated the insan- 
 ity of Mrs. Forster, and that she had been sent there by his 
 master, they raised no objections to her reception. In a 
 few minutes the servant reappeared with two keepers, who 
 handed Mrs. Forster out of the chaise, and conducted her 
 to a receiving- room, where ]\Irs. Forster waited some 
 minutes in expectation of the appearance of Doctor Bed- 
 dington. In the mean time, Mr. Ramsden's servant, having 
 no farther communication to make, left the letter for Doctor 
 Beddington, and returned in the cliaise to Overton. 
 
 After a quarter of an hour had elapsed, i\Irs. Forster 
 inquired of one of the keepers, Avho had, much to her 
 annoyance, taken a chair close to her, whether the doctor 
 intended to come. 
 
 ''He'll come by-and-by, good woman. How do you 
 feel yourself now } " 
 
 " Very cold — very cold, indeed," replied ]\Irs. Forster, 
 shivering. 
 
 " That's what the poor brutes always complain of — 
 ar'nt it, Jim .f" " observed another keeper, who had just 
 entered. " Where be we to stow her." 
 
 " I sent Tom to get No. 14. ready." 
 
 "Why, you don't think that I'm mad!" cried Mrs. 
 Forster, with terror. 
 
 " So, softly — so — so," said the keeper next to her, 
 patting her, as he would soothe a fractious child. 
 
 The violence of Mrs. Forster, when she discovered that 
 she was considered as a lunatic, fully corroboratcil to the 
 keepers the assertion of Mr. Ramsden's servant ; but wc 
 must not dwell upon the scene which followed. After an 
 ineffectual struggle, Mrs. Forster found herself locked up
 
 58 NEWTON FOKSTER ; 
 
 in No. 14'., and left to her own reflections. The previous 
 scenes which had occurred, added to the treatment which she 
 received in the asylum, caused such excitement, that, before 
 the next morning, she was seized with a brain fever, and 
 raved as loudly in her delirium as any of the other unfor- 
 tunate inmates tliere incarcerated. 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 Who by repentance is not satisfied. 
 
 Is not of heaven or earth ; for these are pleased ; 
 
 By penitence the Eternal's wrath 's appeased. Shakspeare. 
 
 Mr. Hamsdkn's servant returned to Overton, stating that 
 the doctor was not at home, but that he had left Mrs. 
 Forster and the letter. The time that Doctor Beddington 
 %vas to be absent had not been mentioned by the keepers ; 
 and Mr. Ramsden, imagining that the doctor had probably 
 gone out for the evening, made no further inquiries, as he 
 intended, in a day or two, to call and bring Mrs. Forster 
 back to her own house. On the third day of her removal 
 he set oflF' for the asylum ; and when he discovered the 
 situation of Mrs. Forster, he bitterly repented that he had 
 been persuaded to a step which threatened such serious re- 
 sults. To remove her was impossible ; to assert to the 
 keepers that she was in sound mind, would have been to 
 commit himself; he therefore withdrew his letter to Doc- 
 tor Beddington, who was not expected home for a fortnight, 
 and with a heavy heart returned to Overton. Miss Drag- 
 well was as much shocked when she was informed of the 
 unfortunate issue of her plot; and made a resolution, to 
 which she adhered, never to be guilty of another practical 
 joke. 
 
 In the mean time Newton Forster had made every de- 
 spatch, and returned to Overton with the cargo of shingle 
 a few days after his mother's incarceration. He had not 
 been ten minutes on shore before he was made acquainted 
 with the melancholy history of her (supposed) madness
 
 Oil, TFIE MERCHANT SERVICE. 59 
 
 and removal to the asylum. He hastened homcj where he 
 found his father iu a profound melancholy: he received 
 Newton with a flood of tears, and appeared to be quite lost 
 in his state of widowhood. The next morning Newton set 
 off for the asylum, to ascertain the condition of his mother. 
 He was admitted ; found her stretched on a bed, in a state 
 of delirium, raving in her fever, and unconscious of his 
 presence. The phrenzy of his mother being substantiated 
 by what he had witnessed, and by the assurances of the 
 keepers, to whom he made a present of half his small 
 finances, to induce them to treat her with kindness, New- 
 ton returned to Overton, where he remained at home shut 
 up with his father. In a few days notice was given by 
 the town-crier, that the remaining stock of Mr. Nicholas 
 Forster, optician, was to be disposed of by public auction. 
 
 The fact was, that Nicholas Forster, like many other 
 nusbands, although his wife had been a source of constant 
 annoyance, had become so habituated to her, that he was 
 miserable now that she was gone. Habit is more powerful 
 than even love; and many a married couple continue to 
 live comfortably together long after love has departed, from 
 this most binding of all human sensations. Nicholas de- 
 termined to quit Overton ; and Newton, who perceived 
 that his father's happiness was at stake, immediately ac- 
 quiesced in his wish. When Nicholas Forster resolved to 
 leave the town where be had so long resided, he had no 
 settled plans for the future ; the present idea to remove 
 from the scene connected with such painful associations, 
 was all which occupied his thoughts. Newton, who pre- 
 sumed that his father had some arranged plan, did not 
 attempt to awaken him from his profound melancholy, to 
 inquire into his intentions ; and Nicholas had never given 
 the subject one moment of his thought. When all was 
 ready, Newton inquired of his father, in what manner he 
 intended they should travel ? — " Why, outside the coach 
 will he the cheapest, Newton ; and we have no money to 
 spare. You had better take our places to-night." 
 
 " To what place, father ? " inquired Newton. 
 
 " I 'm sure I don't know, Newton," replied Nicholas, 
 as if just awoke.
 
 60 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 This answer produced a consultation ; and after many 
 Vi'os and cons, it was resolved that Nicholas should proceed 
 to Liverpool, and settle in that town. The sloop com- 
 manded by Newton was found defective in the stern port ; 
 and, as it would take some little while to repair her, New- 
 ton had obtained leave for a few days to accompany his 
 father on his journey The trunk picked up at sea, being 
 too cumbrous, was deposited with the articles of least 
 value, in the charge of Mr. Dragwell; the remainder was 
 taken away by Newton, until he could find a more secure 
 place for tlieir deposit. On their arrival at Liverpool, 
 with little money and no friends, Nicholas rented a small 
 shop ; and Newton having extended his leave of absence 
 to the furthest, that he might contribute to his father's 
 comfort, returned to Overton, to resume the command of 
 the sloop. The first object was to call at the asylum, 
 where he was informed that his mother was much less vio- 
 lent, but in so weak a state that he could not be admitted. 
 Doctor Beddington had not returned ; but a medical gen- 
 tleman, Avho had been called in during his absence, stated 
 to Newton, that he had no doubt if his mother should re- 
 cover from her present state of exhaustion, that her reason 
 would be restored. Newton returned to Overton with a 
 lightened heart, and the next day sailed in the sloop for 
 Bristol. Contrary winds detained him more than a fort- 
 night on his passage. On his arrival, his cargo was not 
 ready, and Newton amused himself by walking about the 
 town and its environs. At last his cargo was on board ; 
 and Newton, who was most anxious to ascertain the fate 
 of his mother, made all haste to obtain his clearance and 
 other papers from the Custom-house. It was late in the 
 evening before he had settled with the house to which the 
 sloop had been consigned ; but, as the wind and tide 
 served, and there was a bright moon, he resolved to weigh 
 that night. VTith his papers carefully buttoned in his coat, 
 he was proceeding to the boat at the jetty, when he was 
 seized by two men, who rushed upon him from behind. 
 He hardly had time too look round to ascertain the cause, 
 when a blow on the head stretched him senseless on 
 the ,<rround.
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 6 1 
 
 Now, my readers may probably feel some little distress 
 at the misfortune of Newton, and have some slight degree 
 of curiosity to know the grounds of this severe treatment. 
 I, on the ct)ntrary, am never more pleased than when I find 
 my principal character in a state of abeyance, and leave 
 him so with the greatest indifference, because it suits my 
 convenience. I have now an opportunity of returning to 
 Mrs. Forster, or any other of the parties who act a subor- 
 dinate })art in my narrative ; and, as Newton is down on 
 the ground, and hors de combat, why there let him lie — 
 until I want him again. 
 
 Doctor Beddington returned home long before the re- 
 covery of Mrs. Forster from her severe attack. As it may 
 be {)resumed, he found her perfectly rational ; but still he 
 had TiO doubt of the assertions of his keepers, that she was 
 insane at the time that she was sent to the asylum by Mr. 
 Ramsden. The latter gentleman kept aloof until the issue 
 of Mrs, Forster's malady should be ascertained : if she re- 
 covered, it was his intention to call upon Doctor Bedding- 
 ton and explain the circumstances ; if she died, he had 
 determined to say nothing about it. Mrs. Forster's reco- 
 very was tedious ; her mind was loaded with anxiety, and, 
 what was infinitely more important, with deep remorse. 
 The supposed death of Mr. Spinney had been occasioned 
 by her violence, and she looked forward with alarm, as 
 great as the regret with which slie looked back upon her 
 former behaviour. When slie called to mind her unfeeling 
 conduct towards her husband — the many years of bitter- 
 ness she had created for him, — her infraction of the mar- 
 riage vow — the solemn promise before God to love, honour, 
 and obey, daily and hourly violated, — her unjust hatred 
 of her only son, — her want of charity towards others, — 
 all her duties neglected, — swayed only by selfish and ma- 
 lignant jiassions, — with bitter tears of contrition and self- 
 abasement, she acknowledged that her pimisliment was 
 just. With streaming eyes, with supplicating hands and 
 bended knees, she implored mercy and forgiveness of Him, 
 to whom appeal is never made in vain. Passion's infuriate 
 leign was over — her heart was changed ! 
 
 To D>ictor Beddiniiton she made neitlier complaint nor
 
 02 NKWTON FORSTEH*; 
 
 exi)lanation. All she wished was to quit the asylum as 
 soon as she was restored to health, and prove to her hus- 
 band, by her future conduct, he sincerity of her reform- 
 ation. When she became co valescent, by the advice of 
 Doctor Beddington, she walk-ed in a garden appropriated 
 for the exercise of the more harmless inmates «f the asylum. 
 The first day that she went out she sat down upon a bench 
 near to the keepers, who were watching those who were 
 pei-mitted to take the air and exercise, and overheard their 
 discourse, which referred to herself. 
 
 " Why, what was it as made her mad — d'ye knov/, 
 Tom ? " 
 
 '• They say she 's been no better all her life," replied 
 the other ; " a rat would not live in the house with her : 
 at last, in one of her tantrums, she nearly murdered old 
 Spinney, the clerk at Overton. The report went out that 
 he was dead ; and conscience, I suppose, or summut of that 
 kind, run away with her senses." 
 " Oh, he warn't killed, then? " 
 
 " No, no : I seed him and heard him too, Sunday fore 
 lastj when I went to call upon old father ; I was obligaied 
 to go to church, the old gemman 's so remarkable par- 
 ticular.'"' 
 
 " And what 's become of her husband, and that hand- 
 some young chap, her son ? " 
 
 " I don't know, nor nobody else either. The old man, 
 who was as wordiy an old soul as ever breathed (more 
 shame to the old faggot, for the life she led him !) grew 
 very unhappy and melancholy, and would not stay in the 
 place : they disposed of every thing, and both went away 
 together ; but nobody knows where the old man is gone to.'' 
 " And the young un ? ' 
 
 " Oh_, he came back and took command of the sloop. 
 He was here twice, to see how his mother was. Poor lad ! 
 it was quite pitiful to see how unhappy he was about the 
 old catamaran. He give me and Bill a guinea apiece, to 
 be kind to her ; but, about three days back, the sloop came 
 into the harbour without him : they suppose that he fell 
 off the jetty at Bristol and was di-owned, for he was seen 
 coming down to the boat ; and, a'ter that, they never heard 
 no more about him."
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 63 
 
 '' Wc'ii, but Tom, the old v/oman's nil right now? " 
 •' Yes, she's right enough ; but, where be her husband, 
 and where be her son ? she '11 never plague them any 
 more, that 's pretty sart£iin." 
 
 The feelings of Mrs. Forster at the finale of this dis- 
 course are not easy to be portrayed. One heavy load was 
 off her mind — i\lr. Spinney was not dead ; but how much 
 had she also to lament ? She perceived that she had been 
 treacherously kidnapped by those who detested lier con- 
 duct, but had no right to inflict the punishment. The 
 kind and feeling conduct of her husband and of licr son, 
 — the departure of the one, and supposed death of the 
 other, were blows which nearly overwhelmed her. She 
 tottered back to her cell in a state of such extreme agita- 
 tion, as to occasion a return of fever, and for many days 
 she was unable to quit her bed. 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 " When Britain first at Heaven's command 
 Arose from out tlie azure main. 
 This was the charter, the charter of the land, 
 And guardian angels sung the straui, — 
 Rule Britannia, Britannia rules the waves. 
 For Britons never shall be slaves." 
 
 We left Newton Forster senseless on the pavement leading 
 to the quay at Bristol, floored by a rap on the head from a 
 certain person or ^>ersons unknown : lie did not however 
 remain there long, being hoisted on the shoulders of two 
 stout fellows, dressed in blue jackets and trousers, with 
 heavy clubs in their hands, and a pistol lying perdu be- 
 tween tlieir waistcoats and shirts. These nautical person- 
 ages tumbled him into the stern-sheets of a boat, as if not 
 at all sorry to rid themselves of his weight ; and, in a 
 contmued state of insensibility^ Newton was hoisted up the 
 side of a cutter which lay at anchor about one hundred 
 J ards from the shore.
 
 €4 NF.WTON FORSTKR : 
 
 "When Newton recovered his senses, Jiis swimminp; eyes 
 could just enable him to perceive that something flashed 
 upon them, and in their weak state created a painful sen- 
 sation. As he became more collected, he discovered that 
 a man was holding a small candle close to them, to ascer- 
 tain whether the vein which had been opened in his arm 
 had produced the desired effect of restoring him to anima- 
 tion. Newton tried to recollect where he was, and what 
 had occurred ; but the attempted exercise of his mental 
 powers Avas too much, and again threw him into a state of 
 stupor. At last he awoke as if from a dream of death, 
 and looking round, found himself lying on the deck attended 
 by a female, who bathed his forehead. 
 
 "'Where am I.?" exclaimed Newton. 
 
 " Is it where you are, that you'd want for to know ? 
 a'nt ye on board of the Lively cutter, sure ? and a'nt 
 you between decks in her, and I looking a 'ter ye, 
 honey ? " 
 
 " And who are you ?" 
 
 " And who am I! Then if I'm not somebody else, 
 I 'm Judy Malony, the wife of the boatswain's mate^ and 
 a lawful married woman." 
 
 " How did I come here?'' continued NeAVton, raising 
 himself on his elbow. 
 
 " You did'nt come at all, honey, you were brought." 
 
 " MHio brought me ? " 
 
 " ^Vho brought ye ! it was either the gig or the jolly- 
 boat ; but I wasnt on deck at the time, so I can't upon 
 my oath say exactly which." 
 
 '• Then pray can you tell me why I was brought 
 here?" replied Newton. 
 
 " Sure I can guess, bating you don't know already. 
 It was to sarve your king and your coimtry, like a brave 
 volunteer as you are." 
 
 " Then I 'm impressed ? '' 
 
 "You may take your Bible oath of it, my jewel, and 
 commit no perjury. It's a hard rap that ye got, any 
 how ; just a hint that ye were wanted : but plase God, 
 if ye live and do well, 't will be nothing at all to what
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 6B 
 
 ve '11 have by-arid-bye, all for the honour and glory of ould 
 England." 
 
 Newton, who during these remarks was thinking of his 
 father's situation, and the distress he would suffer without 
 his assistance, and then of the state In which he had 
 left his mother, again sank on the deck. 
 
 "Why he's off again!" muttered Judy Malony ; 
 "he's no countryiuan of mine, that's clear as the mud in 
 the Shannon, or he'd never fuss about a rap with a 
 shillelah ; " and Jutly, lifting up her petticoats first, 
 gained her feet, and walked away forward. 
 
 Newton remaineil in a state of uneasy slumber until day- 
 light, when he was awakened by the noise of boats coming 
 alongside, and loud talking on deck. All that had passed 
 did not immediately rush into his mind ; but his arm tied 
 up with the bandage, and his hair matted, and his face 
 stiff with the coagulated blood, soon brought to his recol- 
 lection the communication of Judy Malony, that he had 
 been impressed. The 'tween decks of the cutter appeared 
 deserted, unless indeed there were people in the hammocks 
 slung over his head ; and Newton, anxious to obtain 
 farther information, crawled under the hammocks to the 
 ladder, and went up on deck. 
 
 About twenty sailors, well armed, were busy handing 
 out of the boats several men whom they had brought 
 on board, who were ordered aft by the officer in command. 
 Newton perceived- that most of them had not received 
 much better treatment than he had on the preceding 
 evening ; some were shockingly disfigured, and were still 
 bleeding profusely. 
 
 " How many have you altogether, Mr. Vincent?" said 
 the lieutenant to a stout master's mate with a tremendous 
 pair of whiskers, which his loose handkerchief discovered 
 to join together at his throat. 
 
 " Seventeen, sir." 
 
 " And how many had we before .'* — twenty-six, I 
 think." 
 
 " Twenty -seven, sir, with the young chap I sent on 
 board last night." 
 
 *' Well, that ■will do ; it's quite as many as we can sto-vr 
 S
 
 66 
 
 NEWTON KORSTER ; 
 
 away, or take care of : — pass them all down below, for- 
 ward ; take up the ladder, and put on the grating until we 
 are out of the harbour. As soon as the jolly-boat comes 
 on board we'll up anchor," 
 
 " She'll be off directly, sir; I ordered her to wait for 
 Johnson and Merton, who did not come down with us." 
 
 " Do you think they have given you the slip ? " 
 
 " I should think not, sir. Here is the jolly-boat com- 
 ing off." 
 
 *' Well, pass the men forward, and secure them," re- 
 plied the lieutenant. " Overhaul the boat's falls, and 
 bring to with the windlass.'' 
 
 Newton thought this a good opportunity to state that he 
 was the master of a vessel, and, as such, protected from 
 the impress; he therefore walked over to the lieutenant, 
 addressing him, " I beg your pardon, sir ■ " 
 
 " Who are you .'' " interrupted the lieutenant, gruffly. 
 
 '^ I was impressed last night, sir ; — may I speak to 
 you?" 
 
 " No sir, you may not." 
 
 " It might save you some trouble, sir, " 
 
 " It will save me more to send you down below. Mr. 
 Vincent, shove this man down forward ; why is he at 
 large ? " 
 
 " He was under the doctor's hands, I believe, sir. 
 Come this way, my hearty — stir your stumps." 
 
 Newton would have expostulated, but he was collared by 
 two of the press-gang, and very uncerimoniously handed 
 forward to the hatchway ; the grating was taken off, and 
 he was lowered down to the deck below, where he found 
 himself cooped up with more than forty others, almost suf- 
 focated for the want of air and space. The conversation 
 (if conversation it could be called) was nothing but one 
 continued string of curses and execrations, and vows of 
 deep revenge. 
 
 The jolly-boat returned, pulling only two oars ; the re- 
 mainder of her crew, with Thompson and Merton, having 
 taken this opportunity of deserting from their forced ser- 
 vitude. With some hearty execrations upon the heads of 
 tJie offending parties, and swearing that by G— d there
 
 OR, THE MEKCHANT SERVICE. 6? 
 
 was no such thing as gratitude in a sailor, the commander 
 of the cutter weighed his anchor, and proceeded to sea. 
 
 The orders received by the lieutenant of the cutter, al- 
 though not precisely specifying, still implying that he was 
 to bring back his cargo alive, as soon as his Majesty's 
 cutter, Lively, was fairly out at sea, the hatches were taken 
 off", and the impressed men allowed to go on deck in the 
 proportion of about one half at a time, two sailors, with 
 drawn cutlasses, still remaining sentry at the coombings of 
 the hatchway, in case of any discontented fellow presum- 
 ing to dispute such lawful authority. 
 
 Newton Forster was happy to be once more on deck; 
 so much had he suffered during his few hours of confine- 
 ment, that he really felt grateful for the indulgence. The 
 sky was bright, and the cutter was dashing along the coast 
 with the wind, two points free, at the rate of seven or eight 
 miles an hour. She was what sailors term rather a wet one, 
 and as she plunged through the short waves the sea broke 
 continually over her bows and chesstree, so that there was 
 no occasion to draw water for purification. Newton 
 washed his face and head, and felt quite revived as he in- 
 haled the fresh breeze, and watched the coast as the vessel 
 rapidly passed each head-land in her course. All around 
 him were strangers, and no one appeared inclined to be 
 communicative ; even the most indifferent, the most stoical, 
 expressed their ideas in disjointed sentences ; they could 
 not but feel that their project and speculations had been 
 overthrown by a captivity so anomalous with their boasted 
 birthright. 
 
 '^ Where are we going?" inquired Newton of a mai> 
 who stood next him, silently watching the passing foam 
 created by the rapid course of the vessel. 
 
 " To hell I hope, with those who brought us here !" re . 
 phed the man, grinding his teeth with a scowl of deep 
 revenge. 
 
 At this moment Judy Malony came pattering along the 
 wet deck with a kid of potato-peelings to throw over the 
 bows. Newton recognised her, and thanked her for her 
 kindness. 
 
 ''It's a nice boy that you are, sure enough, now that 
 F 2
 
 68 NEWTON FOBSTER ; 
 
 you're swate and clean," replied Judy. " Bad luck to the 
 rapparee who gave you the blow ! I axed my husband 
 if it was he ; but he swears upon his salvation that it was 
 no one if it wasn't Tim O'Connor, the baste !" 
 
 " Where are we going?" inquired Newton. 
 
 " A'nt we going to dinner in a minute or two ?" 
 
 " I mean where is the cutter bound to ? " 
 
 "■ Oh ! the cutter you mane ! If she can only find her 
 ■way it 's to Plymouth, sure ; — they're waiting for ye." 
 
 " Who is waiting for us ?'' 
 
 "Why, three fine frigates as can't go to sea without 
 hands. You never heard of a ship sailing without hands ; 
 the poor dumb craturs can't do nothing by themselves." 
 
 " Do you know where the frigates are going ? " 
 
 " Going to say, 1 lay my life on't," replied Judy, who 
 then walked forward, and broke up the conversation. 
 
 The next morning the cutter ran into Hamoaze, and 
 boats were sent on board to remove the impressed men to 
 the guard-ship. There, much to his annoyance and mor- 
 tification, Newton found, that with the others, he was 
 treated as a close prisoner. The afternoon of the same 
 day another vessel arrived from the eastward with a collec- 
 tion of offenders, who for a variety of crimes and misde- 
 meanors had been sentenced to serve on board of a man- 
 of-war. No distinction was made ; all were huddled 
 together, and treated alike, until summoned on the quarter- 
 deck, when their names were called out for distribution to 
 the several men-of-war. Each ship having a quota of sea- 
 men and pickpockets allotted to her in due proportion, the 
 men were ordered down into the boats ; and in less than an 
 hour Newton found himself on board of a fine frigate 
 lying in the Sound, with her fore-topsail losse, as a signal 
 of her immediate departure.
 
 OB, THC MERCHANT SERVICE. 69 
 
 CHAPTER XL 
 
 T'is man's bold task the gen'rous strife to try. 
 
 But in the hands of fjod is victory. Iliad. 
 
 Newton, and the other men who had been selected for 
 the frigate, on board of wliich they bad been despatched 
 (victualled the day discharged), were mustered on the 
 quarter-deck by the first lieutenant, who asked them the 
 questions, whether they were bred to the sea, and could 
 take the helm and lead. Having noted down their an 
 swers, he stationed them accordingly, and they were 
 dismissed. Newton would again have appealed, but on 
 reflection thought it advisable to await the arrival of the 
 captain. Beds and blankets were not supplied that 
 evening : the boats were hoisted up, sentries on the gang- 
 ways supplied with ball-cartridges to prevent desertion, 
 and permission granted to the impressed men to " prick 
 for the softest plank" which they could find for their 
 night's repose. 
 
 At daylight the hands were turned up, the capstern 
 manned, the frigate unmoored, and hove '' short stay 
 a-peak" on her anchor remaining down. The gig was sent 
 on shore with two midshipmen, one to watch the men and 
 prevent their desertion, while the other went up to the 
 captain's lodgings to report her arrival : the topsails were 
 loosed, sheeted home, and hoisted, the yards braced by, and 
 Newton to his sorrow perceived that the captain's arrival 
 would be the signal for immediate departure. The signal- 
 man, on the look-out with his glass, reported the gig 
 coming off with the captain ; and in obedience to the or- 
 ders he had received, the first-lieutenant immediately hove 
 up, and the anchor having been " catted and fisbed," the 
 frigate lay-to in the Sound. As soon as the boat came 
 alongside, and the captain had been received with the 
 customary honours, he desired sail to be made on her as 
 soon as the boat was hoisted up, and then descended to his 
 cabin. In three minutes Newton perceived that all chance 
 If 3
 
 7^ NEWTON FORSTER J 
 
 of release for the present was over ; tl.e courses and top- 
 gailait sails were set^ and the frigate darted past the Ram 
 Head at the rate of ten miles per hour. 
 
 In about twenty minutes, after the messenger had been 
 stowed away, the cables coiled in the tiers, and the ropes 
 flemished down on deck, the captain made his appearance, 
 and directed the first-lieutenant to send aft the newly im- 
 pressed men. In few words he pointed out to them the 
 necessity of their servitude ; and concluded by recom- 
 mending them to enter his majesty's service, and receive 
 the bounty to which they would become entitled ; ob- 
 serving, that the men who did so would raise themselves in 
 his good opinion, and as far as he had the power, would not 
 be forgotten by him, provided that their general good con- 
 duct merited his favour. Some few accepted the terms, 
 but the most of them positively refused. When Newton 
 was addressed, he stated to the captain that he was master 
 of a vessel, and exempted by law from the impress. 
 
 " It is easy to assert that," observed the captain ; " but 
 where are your proofs ? your youth almost denies what you 
 affirm." 
 
 '' There are my papers, sir, my clearance from the Cus- 
 tom-house, and my bill of lading, which I had in my 
 pocket, intending to sail a few minutes after the time that 
 I was impressed." 
 
 "I observe," replied the captain, examining the papers, 
 " they appear to be all correct. What is your name } " 
 
 " Newton Forster." 
 
 "Then this is your signature.'"' 
 
 " It is, sir." 
 
 " Mr. Pittson, desire the clerk to bring up a pen and 
 ink." 
 
 The clerk made his appearance. — "Now, sign your 
 name." — Newton obeyed, and his signature was compared 
 with that on the bill of lading, by the captain and firsts 
 lieutenant. 
 
 '^^ Why did you not mention this before ? " continued 
 the captain. 
 
 " I attempted several times, but was not permitted to 
 speak." Newton then stated how he had been treated
 
 OB, THK MERCHANT SERVICE. 71 
 
 when impressed, and afterwards by the officer commanding 
 the cutter. 
 
 " You certamly were exempted from the impress, if 
 what you state is true ; and I behave it so to be, " rcphetl 
 the captain. — ''It is a hard case; but what can I do? 
 Here we are at sea, and hkely to remain on a cruise of 
 several months. You cannot expect to eat the bread of 
 idleness on board of a man-of-war. You will do your 
 duty wherever you are stationed. There is no disgrace in 
 serving his majesty, in any capacity. I tell you candidly, 
 that although I would not have impressed you myself, I 
 am very glad that I have you on board ; I wish I had fifty 
 more of the same sort, instead of the sweepings of the 
 gaols, which I am obliged to mix up with prime seamen." 
 
 " Perhaps, sir, you will have the kindness to send me 
 back by the first homeward-bound vessel ? " 
 
 "No, that I cannot do; you are on the ship's books, 
 and the case must be referred to the Admiralty on our 
 return: that it will be my duty to attend to, upon your 
 application ; but I hope before that you will have entered 
 into his majesty's service." 
 
 "And in the mean time my poor father may starve," 
 said Newton, with a sigh, not addressing those around him, 
 but giving utterance to his thoughts. 
 
 The captain turned away, and paced the quarter-deck 
 with the first- lieutenant. At last he was overheard to say — 
 '^'It's a very hard case, certainly. Forster, can you 
 navigate .'' " continued the captain, addressing Newton. 
 
 " Yes, sir, I can work up a dead reckoning, and take the 
 sun's altitude. 
 
 "Very well, that will do. — Mr. Pittson, you may 
 dismiss them. Are they put into messes ? " 
 
 "All, sir." 
 
 " It' s twelve o'clock, sir,'' said the master, touching his 
 hat, with his quadrant in his hand. 
 
 " Make it so, and pipeto dinner." 
 
 Newton was stationed in the foretop. In a few days the 
 awkwardness arising from the novelty of the scene and 
 from the superior dimensions of every variety of equip- 
 ment on board of the frigate, compared to the small craft 
 F 4
 
 72 NEWTON forster; 
 
 to which he had been accustomed, passed away. The 
 order which was exacted to preserve discipline, the pre- 
 cision with which the time was regulated, the knowledge 
 of the duty allotted to him, soon made him feel that no 
 more was exacted than what could easily be performed, 
 and that there was no hardship in serving on board of a 
 man-of-war ; the only hardship was, the manner in which 
 he had been brought there. Although he often sighed as 
 he thought of his father and mother, he did his duty 
 cheerfully, and was soon distinguished as a most promising 
 young sailor. 
 
 Captam Northfleet was a humane and good officer, and 
 his first-heutenant followed in his steps, and equally de- 
 served the character. Before the ship's company had been 
 six weeks together, they were in a tolerable state of disci- 
 pline ; and proved such to be the case, by acknowledging 
 that they were happy. This, added to the constant ex- 
 citement of chasing and capturing the vessels of the enemy 
 with the anticipation of prize-money, soon made most of 
 those who had been impressed, forget what had occurred, 
 or cease to lament it as a hardship. The continual exercise 
 of the guns was invariably followed up by a general wish 
 that they might fall in with an enemy of equal force, to 
 ascertain whether such constant drilling had been thrown 
 away upon them. The Terpsichore received supplies of 
 provisions and water from other ships, and for nine months 
 continued a successful cruise. 
 
 Several prizes had already been captured, and sent home 
 to England. The complement of the frigate was materially 
 reduced by so many absentees, although some of her men 
 had been brought out to her by other vessels, when a 
 strange sail was discovered from the mast-head. A few 
 hours sufficed to bring the swift Terpsichore alongside of 
 the stranger, who first hoisted, and then immethately 
 hauled down the tricoloured flag in token of submission. 
 She proved to be a French brig, bound to the Cape of 
 Good Hope, with ammunition and government stores. 
 The third-lieutenant, and all the midshipmen who could 
 navigate, were already away ; and this prize proving 
 valuable. Captain Northfleet resolved to send her in. The
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 73 
 
 difficulty relative to a prize-master was removed by the first- 
 lieutenant, who recommended Newton Forster. To this 
 suggestion the Captain acceeded ; and Newton, with five 
 men, and two French prisoners to assist, was put on board 
 of the Estelle, with written instructions to repair to Ply- 
 mouth, and, upon his arrival there, deliver up the jirize to 
 the agent, and report himself to the admiral. 
 
 Captain Northfieet also returned to Newton the papers of 
 his sloop, and gave him a letter to the admiral, stating the 
 hardship of his case. At the same time that he informed 
 him of the contents of his letter, he recommended Newton 
 to continue in the service, promising that, if he took the 
 vessel safe into port, he would put him on the quarter- 
 deck, as one of the mates of the frigate. Newton thanked 
 Captain Northfieet for his good intentions ; and, requesting 
 permission to reflect upon his proposal, took his leave, and 
 in a few minutes was on board of the Estelle. 
 
 There was a buoyancy of spirits in Newton when he 
 once more found himself clear of the frigate. He acknow- 
 ledged that he had been well treated, and that he had not 
 been unhappy ; but still it was emancipation from forced 
 servitude. It is hard to please where there are so many 
 masters ; and petty tyranny will exist, and cause much 
 discontent before it is discovered, even where the best 
 discipUne prevails. The imperious behaviour of the young 
 midshipmen, who assume the same despotic sway which is 
 exercised over themselves, as soon as their superiors are 
 out of sight and hearing, was often extremely galling to 
 Newton Forster, and it frequently required much forbear- 
 ance not 10 retort. However in strict justice this might 
 be warranted, discipline would not permit it, and it would 
 have been attended with severe punishment. It was 
 therefore with a feeUng of delight, that Newton found 
 himself his own master, and watched the hull and canvass 
 of the Terpsichore, as they gradually sunk belpw the 
 horizon. 
 
 The Estelle was a fine vessel, and her cargo not being 
 all composed of heavy materials, was sufficiently light on 
 the water to sail well. At the time of her capture, they 
 were, by the reckoning of the frigate, about fourteen hun-
 
 74 NEWTON FOHSTEK ; 
 
 dred miles from the Lizard. In a fortnight, tlierefore, 
 with the wind at all propitious, Newton hoped to set his 
 foot upon his nati\e land. He crowded all the sail which 
 prudence would allow ; and, with the wind upon his 
 quarter, steered his course for England. 
 
 The men sent with him in the brig consisted of two 
 able seamen, and three of the gang which had been col- 
 lected from the gaols and brought round from the east- 
 wardc Captain Northfleet spared the former, as it was 
 necessary that a part of the crew shovdd be able to steer 
 and navigate the vessel ; the latter, with the sincere hope 
 of never seeing them again, taking it for granted that they 
 would run away as soon as they arrived at Plymouth. 
 With the two prisoners, they were sufficient to work the 
 vessel. 
 
 During the first ten days the wind was generally in 
 their favour, and the brig was not far off from the chops 
 of the Chanjiel, when a low raking vessel was perceived 
 bearing down upon them from the N.W. Newton had 
 no glass ; but as she neared to within three miles, the 
 vessel wore the appearance of a privateer schooner ; but 
 whether an enemy or not, it was impossible to decide. 
 The Estelle had two small brass guns on her forecastle ; 
 and Newton, to ascertain the nation to which the privateer 
 belonged, hoisted the French ensign and fired a gun. In 
 a minute the privateer hoisted English colours ; but as she 
 continued to bear down upon them, Newton, not feeling 
 secure, rove his studding sail gear, and made all prepa- 
 ration for running before the wind, which he knew to be 
 the brig's best point of sailing. The privateer had ap- 
 proached to within two miles, when Roberts, one of the 
 seamen, gave his decided opinion tliat she was a French 
 vessel, pointing out the slight varieties in the rigging and 
 build of the vessel, which would not have been apparent 
 to any one but a thorough-bred seaman. 
 
 " We 'd better up helm, and get the sail upon her. If 
 she be French, she '11 soon show herself by firing at us " 
 
 Newton was of the same opinion. The brig was put 
 before the wind, and gradually all her canvass was spread. 
 The privateer immediately shook out all her reefs, set her
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 75 
 
 lofty sails, hoisted French colours, and, in a few minutes, 
 a shot whizzed through the rigging of the Estelle, and 
 pitched into the water a-head of them. 
 
 " I thought so," cried Roberts. It 's a Johnny Crapeau. 
 A starn chase is a long chase, any how. The brig sails 
 well, and there arn't more than two hours daylight ; so 
 Monsieur must be quick, or we '11 give him the slip yet." 
 
 The privateer was now within a mile of them ; both 
 vessels had " got their way ;" and their respective powers 
 of sailing were to be ascertained. In half an hour the 
 privateer bad neared to three quarters of a mile. 
 
 " I think our little guns will soon reach her," observed 
 Newton."' Williams, give me the helm. Go forward with 
 Roberts and the men, and rouse them aft. Be smart, my 
 lads, for she has the heels of us." 
 
 "■ Come along," said Roberts. '^ You, Collins, why 
 don't you stir? — do you wish to see the inside of a 
 French prison } " 
 
 " No," replied Collins, sauntering forward, " not par- 
 ticularly." 
 
 ''Only by way of a change, I suppose," observed Thomp- 
 son, another of the convicts. " You have been in every 
 gaol in England, to my knowledge — hav'nt you, Ben ? " 
 
 " Mayhap I have," replied Collins ; " but one gentle- 
 man should never interfere with the consarns of another. 
 I war'nt whipped at the cart-tail, as you were, last Lan- 
 caster 'sizes." 
 
 " No ; but you had a taste of it on board of the Terpsi- 
 chore. Ben, you ar'nt forgot that.-*" retorted Hillson, 
 the other of the three characters who had been sent with 
 Newton. 
 
 In a few minutes the guns were run aft, and the ammu- 
 nition brought on deck. Newton then gave the helm to 
 Williams, and served one gun ; while Roberts took charge 
 of the other. The privateer had continued to near thera, 
 and was now within their range. A smart fire was kept up 
 on her, which she returned with her superior metal. 
 
 After the firing had commenced, the approach of the 
 privateer was in some degree checked. The guns fired 
 firom the stern of the Estelle assisted her velocity through
 
 16 
 
 NEWTOX FORSTER ; 
 
 the water ; while, on the contrary, the privateer, being 
 obliged to yaw from her course that her guns might bear, 
 and firing from the bow, her impetus was checked. Still 
 the privateer had the advantage in sailing, and slowly 
 neared the brig. , 
 
 " There's no need of your coming aft so close upon us," 
 said Roberts to the two Frenchmen who had been sent oi\ 
 board ; " go forward, and keep out of the way. That 'ere 
 chap is after mischief; he had his eye upon the ammini- 
 tion," continued the sailor to Newton. " Go forward — 
 d'ye hear ? or I'll split your d — d French skull with the 
 handspike." 
 
 " Don't touch him, Roberts," said Newton. 
 
 '^Noj I wont touch him, if he keeps out of my way. Do 
 you hear .f" — go forward ! " cried Roberts to the French- 
 man, waving his hand. 
 
 The Frenchman answered with a sneer and a smile, and 
 was turning to obey the order, when a shot from the pri- 
 vateer cut him nearly ia two. The other Frenchman, who 
 was close to him, made a rapid descent into the cabin. 
 
 " That was well meant, any how," observed Roberts, 
 looking at the dead body ; " but it wasn't meant for him. 
 Shall 1 toss him overboard } " 
 
 " No, no — let him lie. If they capture us, they will 
 perceive it was their own doing." 
 
 " Well, then, I ' 11 only haul him into the leescuppers, 
 out of the way." 
 
 Another shot from the privateer passed through the 
 cabin windows, and went forward into the hold. The 
 French prisoner ran on deck with as much haste as before 
 he had run below. 
 
 "Ay, it will be your turn next, my cock," cried Roberts, 
 who had been removing the body to the gunnel. " Now, 
 let me try my luck again," and he hastened to his gun. 
 Newton fired before Roberts was ready. The topsail-sheet 
 of the schooner was divided by the shot, and the sail flew 
 out before the yard. 
 
 " That's a good two cables' length in our favour," cried 
 Roberts. " Now for me." Roberts fired Jiis gun, and was 
 more fortunate ; his shot struck away the fore-top-gallant-
 
 ORj THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 77 
 
 mast, while the royal and top-ga!lant-sail fell before the 
 topsail. 
 
 " Well done, my little piece of brass ! " said Roberts, 
 slapping tlie gun familiarly on the breech ; " only get 
 us out of our scrape, and I'll polish you as bright as 
 silver ! '' 
 
 Whether the gun understood him or not, or, what is 
 more probable, the short distance between the brig and the 
 privateer, made it more effective, more mischief took place 
 in the sails and rigging of the schooner. Her topsail-sheet 
 was, however, soon rebent, the sail reset, and her other 
 casualties made good. She ceased firing her long gun, and 
 at dusk had crept up to within a quarter of a mile, and 
 commenced a heavy fire of musketry upon the brig. 
 
 " This is rather warm work," observed Williams at 
 the helm, pointing to a bullet-hole through his jacket. 
 
 " Rather too warm," observed Collins, the convict. 
 "1 don't see why we are to risk our lives for our pal- 
 try share of prize-money. I vote for hauling down the 
 colours." 
 
 " Not yet," said Newton, " not yet, my lads. Let us 
 try a few shots more." 
 
 ''Try! — to be sure,'' rejoined Roberts, '"didn't I say 
 before, that a starn chase was a long one." 
 
 " That only makes the matter worse," replied Collins ; 
 " for while we are to be peppered this way, I think the 
 shorter the chase the better. However, you may do as you 
 please, but I'm not so fond of it; — so here's down below 
 to the fore-peak ! " 
 
 " Ben, you're a sensible chap, and gives good advice ; 
 we'll just follow you," said Hillson. 
 
 " Birds of a feather always flock together ; so, Ben, I'm 
 of your party," added Thompson. 
 
 The convicts then descended forward out of the fire of 
 the musketry, while Newton and Roberts continued to load 
 and fire, and Williams steered the brig. The French- 
 man had already found his way below again, before the 
 convicts. 
 
 The schooner was within two cables' length, and the 
 fire of the musketry was most galling ; each of the English
 
 78 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 seamen had received slight wounds, when, just as it was 
 dark, one of the shot from the brig proved more effective. 
 The main-boom of the schooner was either cut in two, or 
 so much injured as to obhge them to lower her mainsail. 
 The brig now increased her distance fast, and in a few 
 minutes they lost sight of the schooner in the darkness of 
 the night. 
 
 " Huzza ! " cried Roberts, " didn't I tell you that a 
 starn chase was a long one ? " 
 
 Not a star was to be seen ; the darkness was intense, and 
 Newton consulted with Williams and Roberts, as to what 
 was their best plan of proceeding. It was agreed to haul 
 up for a quarter of an hour, then furl all, and allow the 
 privateer to pass them. This was put in execution ; the 
 convicts, now that there was no more firing, coming to 
 their assistance. The next morning the weather proved 
 hazy, and the schooner, who had evidently crowded sail in 
 pursuit of them, was nowhere to be seen. 
 
 Newton and his crew congratulated themselves upon 
 their escape, and again shaped their course for the Channel. 
 The wind would not allow them to keep clear of Ushant, 
 and two days afterwards they made the French coast, near 
 to that island. The next morning they had a slant of wind, 
 which enabled them to lay her head up for Plymouth, and 
 anticipated that in another twenty-four hours they would be 
 in safety. Such, however, was not their good fortune; 
 about noon a schooner hove in sight to leeward, and it was 
 soon ascertained to be the same vessel from which they 
 had previously escaped. Before dusk she was close to them ; 
 and Newton, aware of the impossibility of resistance, hove- 
 tOj as a signal of surrender.
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 79 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 Misery acquaints a man with strange bedfellows. Shakspeare. 
 
 As the reader may have, before now, occasionally heard 
 comments upon the uncertainty of the moon and of the 
 sea, and also, perhaps, of human life, I shall not venture 
 any farther remarks upon the subject ; for were they even 
 new, I should never have the credit of them. This is cer- 
 tain, that instead of finding themselves, as they anticipated 
 to be in the next twenty-four hours, safely moored in the 
 port of Plymouth, Newton and his comrades found them- 
 selves before that time had elajjsed safely locked up in the 
 prison of Morlaix, But we must not proceed so fast. 
 
 Although the Estelle had squared her mainyard as a 
 signal of submission, the privateer's men, as they ranged 
 their vessel alongside, thought it advisable to pour in a vol- 
 ley of musketry : this might have proved serious, had it 
 not been that Newton and his crew were all doAvn below, 
 hoping to secure a few changes of linen, which in a prison, 
 might prove very useful. As it was, their volley only 
 killed the remaining French prisoner, who remained on 
 deck, overjoyed at the recapture, and anticipating an imme- 
 diate return to his own country ; by which it would appear 
 that the " L' homme propose, niais Dieu dispose" of France, 
 is quite as sure a proverb as the more homely " Many a 
 slip between the cup and lip " of our own country. 
 
 The boat of the privateer was sent on board ; a dozen 
 men, with their cutlasses flourishing over their heads, leapt 
 on the deck of the Estelle, and found nobody to exercise 
 their valour upon, except the body of their departed com- 
 rade ; upon which they shouted for the "Sacre's God 
 dams " to '^ monter." Newton and the rest obeyed the sum- 
 mons, with their bundles in their hands : the latter they 
 were soon relieved of by their conquerors, who, to prove 
 that it was not out of " politesse " that they carried their 
 effects, at the same time saluted them with various blows 
 with their cutlasses upon their backs and shoulders. New-
 
 ■SO NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 toi!, vvho felt that resistance would only be an excuse for 
 farther aggression^ bore with philosophy what- he could not 
 prevent, and hastened into the boat. The convicts also took 
 their share with patience — they had been accustomed to 
 " many stripes." Roberts and Williams, in spite of the 
 remonstrances of Newton, with all the reckless spirit of 
 English sailors, would not submit so quietly. The first 
 object which attracted Roberts' attention, as he came up the 
 ladder, was the body of the remaining French prisoner. 
 
 "What! Johnny, so you're gone! Didn't I tell you 
 that your turn would come next ? I say, my hearties, you 
 keep all your bullets for your friends," continued Roberts, 
 addressing the privateer's men. 
 
 A few " sacres " and " f s " was the reply, as one of 
 
 them attempted to twitch his bundle out of his hand. — 
 " Hol'l fast therej old chap, don't take what you never paid 
 for." 
 
 A scuffle now ensued ; which ended in Roberts, who 
 found that he could not retain possession, shying his bundle 
 at the foremost man, with such force as to lay him on the 
 deck. — " Well, if you will have it, take it," cried 
 Roberts. 
 
 " The beggars have chopped my fingers," growled 
 Williams. " I say Mounseer, don't make quite so free 
 with that iron of yours, or I'll smash your top-lights." 
 
 " I wish I had three on 'em on Point Beach, one up 
 
 and one down. I'd sarve you out, you d d frog-eating 
 
 sea-cooks ! " said Roberts, squaring at the privateers' men 
 with clenched fists. 
 
 This obstreperous conduct produced a shower of blows 
 with the backs of the cutlasses. Williams, in a rage, 
 wrenched a cutlass from one of the Frenchmen, and laid 
 about him ; while Roberts, with his fists, rushed within 
 their guards, and laid two of them at his feet. At last 
 they were overpowered and thrown into the boat, bleeding 
 profusely from various cuts which they had received in the 
 unequal scuffle. The privateers' people then shoved off, 
 and rowed on board of the schooner. 
 
 As soon as Newton and the other Englishmen were up 
 the side they were pushed aft; their persons were then
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE!. 81 
 
 searched, and every part of their apparel, which appeared 
 to be of good materials or little worn, was taken from them, 
 Collins, the convict, was a good prize ; he had put on 
 shirt over shirt, stocking over stocking, and trousers over 
 trousers, that the Frenchmen began to wonder if ever 
 they should arrive at the *' inner man." At last, he was 
 uncased, an old pair of trousers thrown to him, and he was 
 left without any other garment, shivering in the cold. 
 Newton, who still retained his waistcoat and shirt, took off 
 the former and gave it to the convict, who whispered as he 
 thanked him, " 1 don't care a fig, they have left me my 
 old hat.'' As soon as the recapture was manned, the pri- 
 vateer bore up for the French coast, and before morning 
 anchored in the rocky harbour of Morlaix. At daylight 
 the prisoners, who had received no refreshment, were 
 handed iuU) a boat, and on their landing, conducted by a 
 party of gens ^armes to the prison. During their progress 
 to their place of confinement Collins excited the amusement 
 of the bystanders, and the surprise of his fellow-prisoners, 
 by walking with his hands and arms raised in a certain 
 position. After they had been locked up, he went to the 
 barred window, and continued the same gestures to the 
 people who were crowded about the prison, most of whom 
 continued their mockery. Newton, who came forward to 
 the window to request a little water for Roberts and 
 Williams, who wished to quench their thirst and wash 
 their wounds, which had not been dressed, inquired of 
 Collins his reason for so doing. " It is for your benefit as 
 well as mine," replied Collins : " at least I hope so. There 
 are freemasons in all countries." 
 
 A few minutes afterwards, one of the people outside 
 came forward, and pointed out to the sentry that the 
 prisoners were making signs for water. The gendarme, 
 who had paid no attention to Newton, listened to the ap- 
 peal of his countryman, who, upon the grounds of common 
 humanity, persuaded him to allow them such a necessary 
 boon. The water was brought, and as the man walked 
 away a sign unperceived by all but Collins, gave him to 
 understand that his appeal had been understood. 
 
 " All's right," said Collins to Newton, as he quitted the
 
 ^2 NEWTON FOnSTER ; 
 
 grating. " We have friends without, aiicl we have friends 
 within." In about an hour some bread was brought 
 in, and among those who brought it Collins perceived the 
 person who had answered his signal ; but no farther re- 
 cognition took place. At noon the door of the prison was 
 again unbarred, and a surgeon came to dress the wounded 
 men. He was accompanied by two or three others, deputed 
 by the governor of the town to obtain intelligence, and the 
 new acquaintance of CoUins appeared as interpreter. While 
 the surgeon dressed the wounds of Roberts and Williams, 
 which, although numerous, were none of any importance, 
 many questions were asked, and taken down when interpreted. 
 Each prisoner was separately interrogated ; Collins was one 
 of the first examined. The questions put and answers 
 given were carefully intermixed with more important 
 matter. The person who acted as interpreter spoke En~ 
 glish too well for a Frenchman ; apparently he was a Dane 
 or Russian, who was domiciliated there. He commenced 
 with — 
 
 " No one understands English but me — but they are 
 suspicious ; be careful. — What is your name ? " 
 
 "John Colhns." 
 
 " Comment .'' " said the French amanuensis, " John 
 Co — lin. C'est Men ; continuezr 
 
 " What is your rank — and in your Lodge ? " 
 
 " Common seaman — master " answered Collins, 
 adroitly. 
 
 " Comment } " said the party with his pen. 
 
 " Matelot," replied the interpreter. 
 
 " Demandez-lui le nom du batiment." 
 
 " What is the name of your ship } • — how can we assist 
 you ? " 
 
 " Terpsichore — a boat, with provisions." 
 
 " Comment ? " 
 
 " Fregate croiseur Terpsichore." 
 
 " Does she sail well } — at what time ?" 
 
 " To-iiight, with a guide" 
 
 "Que dit-il.? " 
 
 " EUe marche bien avec le vent large." 
 
 " Demandez-lui la force."
 
 ORj THE JIEKCHANT SERVICK. 8S 
 
 *' W ^lat number of guns ? — how can you get out ? " 
 
 " Thirty-six gmis. — / have the means." 
 
 " Trente-six canons." 
 
 " Trente-six canons," repeated the Frenchman, writings 
 " c'est bien — alors, I'equipage." 
 
 " How many men ? — / will be here at dark" 
 
 " Two hundred and seventy men ; but many away in 
 prizes." 
 
 " Deux cents soixante-dix hommes d' Equipage ; mais il 
 y a beaucoup dans les batimens pris." 
 
 Newton and the others were also interrogated, the 
 names taken down, and the parties then quitted the 
 prison. 
 
 " Now, if we make a push for it, I think we may get 
 off," said Collins to Newton and the rest, after the door 
 had closed. " I never saw the prison in England which 
 could hold me when I felt inclined to walk out of it ; and 
 as for their bars, I reckon them at about an hour's work. I 
 never travel without my little friends ; " — and Collins, 
 taking off his old hat, removed the lining, and produced a 
 variety of small saws made from watch-springs, files, and 
 other instruments. " Then," continued he, " with these 
 and this piece of tallow stuck outside my hat, I will be 
 through those bars in no time. French iron ar'nt worth a 
 d — n, and the sentry shan't hear me if he lolls against them; 
 although it may be just as well if Thompson tips a stave, 
 as then we may work the faster." 
 
 " I say. Bill," observed Hillson, " who is your friend?" 
 
 "■ I don't know — he may be the governor ; but this I 
 do know, for the honour of freemasonry, we may trust 
 him and all like him ; so just mind your own business, 
 Tom." — " He said he would be here at dark," observed 
 Newton. " Yes, — I must prepare — go to the grating 
 some of you, that they may not look in upon me." 
 
 This unexpected prospect of deliverance created an 
 anxious joy in the breasts of the prisoners ; the day ap- 
 peared interminable. At last, the shades of night set in, 
 and a clouded sky with mizzling rain raised their hopes. 
 The square in front of the prison was deserted, and the 
 sentinel crouched close against the door, which partially
 
 84 NEWTON FORSTEB ; 
 
 protected him from the weather. In a few minutes a 
 person was heard in conversation with the sentinel. " He 
 must be coming now," observed Collins in a low tone ; 
 " that must be one of his assistants who is taking off the 
 attention of the gens d 'arme." 
 
 " Make no noise," said a voice in a whisper, at the out- 
 side of the bars. 
 
 " 1 am here," replied Collins softly. 
 
 " How can you get out of the prison ?" 
 
 " Get the sentry out of the way when we leave off 
 singing ; the bars will then be removed." 
 
 " Every thing is prepared outside. When you get out 
 keep close under the wall to the right. I shall be at the 
 corner, if I am not here." 
 
 The freemason then retired from the grating. 
 
 " Now, Thompson, not too loud, there 's no occasion for 
 it ; two of us can work." 
 
 Thompson commenced his song ; Newton took a small 
 saw from Collins, who directed him how to use it. The 
 iron bars of the prison yielded like wood to the fine-tem- 
 pered instruments which Collins employed. In an hour 
 and a half three of the bars were removed without noise, 
 and the aperture was wide enough for their escape. The 
 singing of Thompson, whose voice was tolerably good and 
 ear very correct, had not only the effect of preventing their 
 working being heard, but amused the sentinel, who re- 
 mained with his back to the wall listening to the melody. 
 
 Their work was so far accomplished. Thompson ceased, 
 and all was silence and anxiety ; in a few minutes the 
 sentinel was again heard in conversation, and the voices re- 
 ceded, as if he had removed to a greater distance. 
 
 " Now, brother," said the low voice under the aperture. 
 
 In a minute the whole of the prisoners were clear of the 
 walls, and followed their guide in silence, until they reached 
 the landing-place. 
 
 "There is the boat, and provisions sufficient," said the 
 freemason, in a low tone ; " you will have to pass the 
 sentries on the rocks : but we can do no more for you. 
 Farewell, brother : and may you and your companions 
 be fortunate ! " So saying, their friendly assistant disap- 
 peared.
 
 OR, THE MKRCHANT SEBVICE. 85 
 
 The night was so dark, that although close to the boat, 
 it was with difficulty that its outline could be discerned. 
 Newton, recommending the Strictest silence and care in 
 entering, stepped into it, and was followed by the rest. 
 Roberts, whose eyesight was a little affected from the 
 wounds in his head, stumbled over one of the oars. 
 
 Qui vive ? " cried out one of the sentries on the rock. 
 
 No answer was made ; they all remained motionless in 
 their seats. The sentry walked to the edge of the rock and 
 looked down ; but not distinguishing any thing, and 
 hearing no further noise, returned to his post. 
 
 For some little while Newton would not allow them to 
 move : the oars were then carefully lifted over the gunnel, 
 and their clothes laid in the rollocks, to muffle the sound ; 
 the boat was pushed from the landing-place into the middle 
 of the narrow inlet. The tide was ebbing, and with their 
 oars raised out of the water, ready to give way if perceived, 
 they allowed the boat to drift out of one of the narrow 
 channels which formed the entrance of the harbour. 
 
 The rain now beat down fast, and anxious to be well 
 clear of the coast before daylight, Newton thought they 
 might venture to pull. The oars were taken by him and 
 Collins ; but before they had laid them three times in the 
 water one of the sentries, hearing the noise, discharged his 
 musket in the direction. 
 
 " Give way, now, as hard as we can," cried Newton ; 
 " it 's our only chance." 
 
 Another and another musket was fired. They heard the 
 guard turned out ; lights passing on the batteries close to 
 them, and row-boats manning. They double-banked their 
 oars, and with the assistance of the ebb tide and obscurity 
 they were soon out of gunshot. They then laid in their 
 oars, shipped their mast, and sailed away from the coast. 
 
 It was nine o'clock in the evening when they started, and 
 at daylight the French coast was not to be seen. Overjoyed 
 at their escape, they commenced an attack upon the pro- 
 visions and a small keg of wine ; and perhaps a more 
 joyful breakfast never was made. The sun rose in vapour, 
 the sky threatened, but they were free and happy. Thle 
 wind frepliened, and the boat flew before the gale ; the 
 a 3
 
 86 NEWTON fobster; 
 
 running seas topping over her stern, and forcing them con- 
 tinually to bale her out ; l)ut all was joy, and freedom 
 turned their "danger to delight." They passed several 
 vessels at a distance, who did not observe them ; and before 
 sunset the English coast was in sight. At ten o'clock the 
 double lights on the Lizard were on their starboard bow. 
 They hauled up upon the larboard tack with the ebb tide, 
 and having passed the Lizard, kept away for Mount's 
 Bay, to avoid the chance of falling in with any of the 
 king's vessels, and being again impressed. At daylight 
 they ran in under St. Michael's Mount, and once more 
 stepped upon English ground. 
 
 Here, as by previous agreement, they divided the pro- 
 visions, and took farewell of each other. 
 
 "■ Good bye, gentlemen," said Collins ; "■ allow me to 
 observe that, for once, you may think yourselves fortunate 
 in having been placed in my very respectable company ! " 
 
 CHAPTER XIIL 
 
 Once more upon the waters Byron. 
 
 As Newton had lost his credentials from Captain North- 
 fleet, as well as the vessel confided to his charge, he did 
 not consider it necessary to pay his respects to the port 
 admiral at Plymouth. On the contrary, he set off as fast 
 as his legs could carry him to Liverpool, to ascertain the 
 condition of his father. We shall pass over the difficulties 
 he experienced on his journey. There is no country where 
 travelling is more easy or more rapid, than in England, 
 provided that you have plenty of money ; but when you 
 travel in forma pauperis, there is no country in which you 
 get on so badly. Parish rates and poor laws have dried up 
 the sources of benevolence ; and as Newton did not apply 
 to the overseers for his three-half-pence a mile, he got on
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 87 
 
 how he could, which was badly enough. When at last he 
 did arrive at Liverpool, he found himself a stone or two the 
 lighter, and avouUI have been pronounced by Captain Bar- 
 clay to have been in excellent training. 
 
 Newton had written to his father, acquainting him with 
 his impressment ; but was doubtful whether the letter had 
 ever been received, as it had been confided to t,he care of 
 one of th? women who left the frigate the evening previous 
 to her sailing. "W^hen he arrived at the house he jierceived 
 his father at his bench as usual, but doing nothing, and the 
 shop windows were bare. 
 
 Newton entered, and his father looked up. 
 
 ''Why, Newton, my dear boy, is it you.?" cried Ni- 
 cholas ; what a long while you have been away ! Well, 
 how is Mr. Hilton ? — and how is your poor mother.''" 
 
 " My dear father, " replied Newton, taking his hand^ 
 ' did not you receive my letter ? " 
 
 " No, I received no letter. \Vhat a time you have been 
 away ; I declare it must be two or three months, or more." 
 
 " It is nearly twelve months, my dear father.' I waa 
 pressed at Bristol, have been on board of a man-of-war ; 
 and have just escaped from a French prison." 
 
 Newton then entered into a narrative of his adventures, 
 to the astonishment of Nicholas, who heard him with open 
 mouth. 
 
 '^ Dear me ! so you 've been in a man-of-war, and in 
 France ; then you don't know how your poor mother is ?" 
 
 " Have you not inquired, my dear father .'' " 
 
 " No, I thought you would come home, and tell me all 
 about it," replied Nicholas with a sigh. 
 
 " How have you got on here?" said Newton, to change 
 the conversation. 
 
 "Very bad indeed, Newton — very bad indeed; I have 
 not had six jobs since you left me." 
 
 " I am sorry to hear it, father ; have you any thing to 
 eat in the house, for I am very hungry ?" 
 
 '"' I am afraid not much," replied Nicholas, going to the 
 cupboard, and producing some bread and cheese. " Caa 
 you eat bread and cheese, my dear boy ? " 
 Q 4
 
 88 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 " I could eat a horse, my dear father," rephed Newton 
 who had walked the last twelve hours without sustenance. 
 
 Newton attacked the provender, which soon disappeared- 
 
 *'l have been obliged to sell most of the shop furniture," 
 said Nicholas, observing Newton to cast his eyes at the 
 empty window. " I could not help it. I believe nobody 
 wears spectacles in Liverpool." 
 
 " It can't be helped, father ; we must hope for better 
 times." 
 
 " Ye3i we must trust in God, Newton. I sold my watch 
 yesterday, and that will feed us for some time. A sailor 
 fame into the shop, and asked if I had any watches to sell: 
 i told him that I only repaired them at present ; but that 
 
 tvhen my improvement in the duplex " Here Nicholas 
 
 forgot the thread of his narrative, and was commencing a 
 calculation upon his intended improvement, when Newton 
 interrupted him. 
 
 '■ WeU, sir, what did the sailor reply ? " 
 
 " Oh ! I forgot ; I told him that I had a watch of my 
 own, that I would part with it, which went very well ; and 
 that it would be cheaper to him than a new one ; that it 
 cost fifteen pounds ; but I was in want of money, and 
 would take five pounds for it. He saw how sorry I was to 
 part with it — and so I was." Here Nicholas thought of 
 his watch, and forgot his story. 
 
 ''Well, my dear father," said Newton, "what did he 
 give you for it ? " 
 
 "■ Oh ! — why, he was a kind good creature, and said that 
 he was not the man to take advantage of a poor devil in 
 distress, and that I should have the full value of it. He 
 put the watch in his fob and counted out fifteen pounds on 
 the counter. I wanted to return part : but he walked out 
 of the shop, and before I could get round the counter he 
 had got round the corner of the street." 
 
 " 'T was a God-send, my dear father," rephed Newton, 
 " for I have not a halfpenny. Do you know what became 
 of my chest, that 1 left on board of the sloop ? " 
 
 " Dear me ! now I think of it, it came here by the 
 waggon. I put it up stairs. I wondered why you sent it." 
 
 Newton having appeased his hunger, went up stairs^ and
 
 OK, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 89 
 
 found all his wearing apparel had been forwarded by Mr. 
 Hilton, who supposed him dead, and that he was enabled 
 to make a more respectable appearance than what the pri- 
 vateer's people had hitherto permitted him. In a few days 
 he felt quite recovered from his fatigue, and sallied forth in 
 search of employment. On the day after his arrival at 
 Liverpool he had written to the asylum, to inquire the fate 
 of his mother. The answer which he received was, that 
 Mrs. Forster had recovered, and remained many months 
 in the establishment as nurse ; but that ten days back she 
 had quitted the asylum, and that her address was not known. 
 
 Newton, who had no means of prosecuting further in- 
 quiry, was obliged to be satisfied with the intelligence that 
 his mother was alive and well. He communicated the in- 
 formation to Nicholas, who observed — 
 
 *' Poor thing; she's looking for us, depend upon it, 
 Newton, and will be here very soon : " and this expectation 
 was revived whenever Nicholas thought of his wife; and he 
 continued satisfied. 
 
 We must aUow many months to pass away in one para- 
 graph — months of ineffectual struggle against poverty and 
 want of employment, which Newton made every exertion 
 to obtain as mate of a merchant vessel. The way in which 
 he had been impressed had caused a dread of the king's 
 service, which he coidd not overcome ; and although he 
 had but to choose his ship as a sailor before the mast, he 
 could not prevail upon himself to accept a berth which was 
 not protected from the impress. Without recommendation 
 he could not obtain the situation of mate, and he continued 
 to work as a rigger in the docks, until his hand was un- 
 fortunately severely jammed by the heel of a topmast, and 
 he was laid up for many weeks. Each day their fare be- 
 came scantier, and they were reduced to their last shilling, 
 when Newton was again able to go out and seek employ- 
 ment. 
 
 It was a rough day, blowing hard from the S.E., when 
 Newton, who had tried his fortune on board of every vessel 
 (crowded as they were in the docks) without success, walked 
 in a melancholy and disappointed mood along the splendid 
 pier which lines the river-side. Few people were out, for
 
 go NEWrON FORSTER j 
 
 the gusts of wind were accompanied by smart driving 
 showers of r*ain. Here and there was to be seen a boat 
 pulling lip in-shore to fetch the shipping in the stream, who 
 with a heavy strain on their cables were riding to the S. E. 
 gale, and a strong ebb tide. Newton had made up his 
 mind to enter on board of one of these vessels about to sail, 
 provided they would advance hitn a part of his wages for 
 his father's support ; when, as a heavy squall cleared away, 
 he perceived that a boat had broken adrift from the outer- 
 most vessel (a large biig), with only one man in it, who 
 was carried away by the rapid current, assisted by the gale 
 blowing down the river, so as to place him in considerable 
 risk. The man in the boat tossed out his oar, and pulling 
 first on one side, and then on the other, tried to make for 
 the shore ; but in vain. He was swept away with a rapidity 
 which threatened in less than an hour to carry him out to 
 sea, unless assistance were afforded him. 
 
 Another heavy squall again hid the boat from the sight 
 of Newton, who had been anxiously watching to ascertain 
 if any relief was sent from the shipping, and who was now 
 convinced that the disaster had not been perceived. He 
 therefore ran down the bank of the river, waiting until the 
 squall should blow over, and enable him to discover the 
 boat. 
 
 In about ten minutes the squall passed over, and the 
 boat was again presented to his sight ; she was still in the 
 centre of the stream, about three hundred yards from the 
 shore. The man who was in her, finding all his attempts 
 futile, had lain on his oar, and was kneeling in the stern 
 sheets, apparently in supplication. Newton could not resist 
 the appeal ; it appeared to point out to him that he was 
 summoned to answer the call made upon Providence. The 
 V)oat was now a quarter of a mile farther down the river 
 than where he stood, and about three miles from the town 
 and shipping, both of which were no longer discernible 
 from the thickness of the weather. Newton threw ofF his 
 coat, and plunging into the agitated water, the cold of 
 which nearly checked his respiration, swam off into the 
 stream in a direction so as to allow himself to fetch to wind- 
 ward of the boat. He was soon carried down to it by the
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. ,01 
 
 rapidity of the tide^ and, as he approached, he shouted to 
 announce his presence. The man in the boat started up 
 at the sound of a human voice, and perceiving Newton 
 close to the bows, lent over and extended his hand towards. 
 him. Newton seized hold of it, and then was whirled 
 round by the tide fore and aft with the side of the boat, 
 with such violence as nearly to drag the other man out, and 
 half till the boat with water. It was with great difficulty 
 although assisted by the occupant, that Newton contrived 
 at last to get in ; when, exhausted with the effiarts he had 
 made, he remained a few seconds without motion; the man, 
 whom he had thus risked his life to save, perceiving his 
 condition, and not speaking to him. 
 
 *' We have no time to lose," said Newton, at last : "take 
 an oar, and let us pull in for the shore. If once we are 
 swept down to the narrows there will be little chance for 
 us." 
 
 The other complied, without speaking; and, after a few 
 minutes exertion the boat was safely landed on the Liver- 
 pool side of the river. 
 
 "The Lord be praised!" ejaculated Newton's com- 
 panion, as he laid on his oar. " I did not call upon Him 
 in vain ; your accident has been the means of my preser- 
 vation." 
 
 " How do you mean ? " inquired Newton. 
 
 " Why, did you not fall overboard ? " replied the other. 
 
 Newton then explained to his companion what we have 
 already related to the reader, ending his narrative with the 
 observation, that when he perceived him praying for assist- 
 ance in his peril, he could not resist the appeal, 
 
 "God will reward you, young man," continued he: 
 " and now I will explain to you how it was that I was 
 adrift, like a bear in a washing-tub. My first-mate was 
 below. I had just relieved the deck, for in tliis blowing 
 weather we must keep watch in harbour. The men were 
 all at their dinner, when I heard the boat thumping under 
 the main channels. I got into her to ease off a fathom oi 
 two of the painter ; but as I hauled her ahead to get at the 
 bend, it appears that the monkey of a boy who made her 
 fast, and has been but a few months at sea, had made a
 
 92 NEWTON FOBSTER , 
 
 ' slippery hitch ;'' so away it went, and I was adrift. I 
 hailed them on boards but they did not hear me, although 
 the first-mate might have, for he was in the cabin, and the 
 stern window was up ; but hailing to windward is hard 
 work, such weather as this; the words are blown back 
 again down your own throat. And now, let me know a 
 httle about you, my lad, and see whether I cannot in re- 
 turn be of some use to you." 
 
 Newton's history was soon told; and, at the conclusion, 
 he had the satisfaction of finding that he had obtained the 
 very situation which he had been in search of. 
 
 " I have no second mate on board," observed the cap- 
 tain of the brig ; " but I intended to have shipped one 
 to-morrow. I was only divided between which to take of 
 two who have offered themselves, with equally good recom- 
 mendations. Fortunately, I would promise neither; and, 
 as I think your own recommendation stronger than theirs, the 
 berth is at your service. I only wish, for your sake, that 
 it was that of first-mate. I am sure you would prove your- 
 self fit for the situation ; and I cannot say that I am very 
 partial to the one that I have at present ; but he is a rela- 
 tion of the owner's." 
 
 The arrangements were soon made. Mr. Berecroft, the 
 master of the vessel, advanced Newton a sum to fit himself 
 out, and agreed with the owner at Liverpool, that one half 
 of Newton's wages should be allotted monthly to his father. 
 The next morning (as the vessel had a pilot on board, and 
 the weather had moderated,) Newton took leave of his 
 father, and with a light heart accompanied his new ac- 
 quaintance on board of the vessel. 
 
 It was early in the morning when they embarked in a 
 hired boat, the one belonging to- the brig still remaining 
 down the river, where they had landed. The first-mate, 
 as it appeared, was in the cabin shaving himself, previous 
 to his going on shore to the owner to report the supposed 
 loss of his superior. The sailors were either busy or down 
 below, so that no notice was taken of the boat coming along- 
 side ; and Newton, with the master, were both on the deck 
 before the circumstance was known to the first-mate. It 
 60 happened, that at the very same moment that they came
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SEHVICE. QS 
 
 on board, the first-mate was ascending the companion hatch, 
 to order a boat to be lowered down, and manned. When 
 he perceived Mr. Berecroft, he fell back with astonishment, 
 and turned pale. 
 
 " I thought you were gone," said he : " why, what could 
 have saved you ? did you not drift out to sea .'' " 
 
 "It appears, then, Mr. Jackson, that you knew that I 
 was adrift," replied the master seriously, looking him stead- 
 fastly in the face. 
 
 " That is," — replied the mate, confused — " I thought 
 — of course, seeing the boat was not alongside — that you 
 had drifted away in her ; how it happened — of course, I 
 know not." 
 
 '^ I should trust, for your conscience sake, Mr. Jackson, 
 that you did not ; however, here I am again, as you see, 
 by the blessing of Providence, and the exertions of this 
 young man, whom I must introduce to you as our second- 
 mate." 
 
 Jackson cast an angry glance at Newton upon the con- 
 clusion of this speech. The master had truly observed 
 that it was strange the first-mate did not hear him when 
 he had hailed the brig for assistance. The fact was, that 
 Jackson had both heard him and seen him ; but he was a 
 wretch devoid of all feeling, who consulted nothing except 
 his own interest. He had made sure that the master 
 would be carried out to sea, there to perish by a most mise- 
 rable death, and that he would succeed in command of the 
 vessel. He was then going on shore to report the supposed 
 "falling overboard" of the master: which as the brig 
 was to sail as the weather moderated, would have secured 
 to him the command, and, at the same time, have put an 
 end to the search which (should he have reported the truth) 
 would immediately have taken place for the boat in which 
 the master had been adrift. Foiled in his hopes, by the 
 courage of Newton, Jackson had already formed towards 
 him a deadly hatred and determination of revenge. 
 
 That evening the wind abated, and the vessel sailed. 
 The ensuing morning she was clear of the sands, and a 
 pilot vessel off Holyhead having received the pilot, she
 
 y4 ^Ew^0N fouster; 
 
 steered down the Irish Channel to join a convoy for the 
 West Indies, collecting at Falmouth. 
 
 Mr. Berecroft, the master of the vessel, who has not 
 hitherto been described, was a spare, light-built person, of 
 about sixty years of age, still active, and a thorough seaman. 
 He had crossed the ocean for forty-five years, and his oc- 
 casional narratives, as he walked the deck, or sat over his 
 evening glass of grog, proved that his life must have been 
 one of no ordinary variety and interest. He was serious 
 and rationally devout. He checked all swearing from the 
 men under his command, and rebuked it, although he 
 could not prevent it, in the first-mate ; who, to annoy 
 him, seldom made his appearance on deck without making 
 use of some execration or another. It was Mr. Berecroft's 
 custom to call down the seamen into his cabin every evening, 
 and read to them a short prayer ; and, although this unusual 
 ceremony often caused a leer in some of the newly-entered 
 men, and was not only unattended but ridiculed by Jack- 
 son, still the whole conduct of Berecroft was so completely 
 in unison, that even the most idle and thoughtless acknow- 
 ledged that he was a good man, and quitted the ship with 
 regret. Such was Mr. Berecroft; and we have little fur- 
 ther to add, except that he was very superior to the gene- 
 rality of masters of merchant vessels. His family, it was 
 reported, were strict quakers. 
 
 Jackson, the first-mate, was a bull-headed, sandy-haired 
 Northumbrian ; as we before stated, a relation of the 
 owner's, or he never would have been permitted to remain 
 in the ship. The reader has already had some insight into 
 his diabolical character. It will be sufficient to add, that 
 he was coarse and blustering in his manners ; that he 
 never forgot and never forgave an injury ; gratitude was 
 not in his composition ; and, to gratify his revenge, he 
 would stop at nothing. 
 
 On the third day, the brig, which was named the Eliza 
 and Jane, after the two daughters of the owner, arrived at 
 Falmouth, where she anchored in the outer roads, in com- 
 pany with thirty or forty more, who had assembled at the 
 appointed rendezvous. On the second day after their 
 arrival, a fifty-gun ship, frigate, and two corvettes, made
 
 OR, THE IiIEUCHANT SERVICE. QS 
 
 their appearance off the mouth of the harbour ; and after 
 a due proportion of guns, some shotted and some not, the 
 ■whole convoy were under weigh, and hove-to round their 
 protectors. The first step taken by the latter was to dis- 
 embarrass their proteges of one-third of their crews, leaving 
 them as defenceless as possible, that they might not confide 
 in their own strength, but put their whole trust in the 
 men-of-war, and keep as close to them as possible. Having 
 taken out every unprotected man, they distributed convoy 
 signals in lieu, and half a dozen more guns announced that 
 they were to make sail — an order immediately complied 
 with : the merchant vessels, loaded with canvass below and 
 aloft, while the men-of-war, with their topsails on the 
 caps, sailed round and round them, firing shot at every 
 unfortunate vessel which was not able to sail as well as 
 the rest. 
 
 The convoy left Falmouth, seventy-five in number; but 
 in a few days there were but forty in sight. Those who 
 remained behind either made their voyage how they could 
 or were taken by the enemy's privateers, who followed in 
 the wake of the convoy. Some few were carried into the 
 French ports ; and the underwriters of the policy eat but 
 little dinner on the day which brought the intelligence of 
 their capture. Others were retaken by the English block- 
 ading squadrons, who received then one eighth for salvage. 
 At last the men-of-war were fairly running down the 
 traders, with about twenty-five of the best sailors in com- 
 pany ; and the commodore deemed it advisable to take 
 particular care of the few which remained, lest he should 
 be " hauled over the coals " by the Admiralty. Nothing 
 worth comment occurred during the remainder of the pas- 
 sage. They all arrived safe at Barbadoes, when the 
 commodore brought in his returns to the admiral, and 
 complained bitterly of the obstinacy of the masters of 
 merchant vessels, who would part company with him, in 
 defiance of all his injunctions, and in spite of all the 
 powder which he fired away to enforce his signals. There 
 certainly was a fault somewhere. 
 
 During the passage, which lasted seven weeks, Newton 
 had ample opportunity of ascertaining his situation. The
 
 96 NEWTON FOBSTEB ; 
 
 master invariably treated him with kindness and con- 
 sideration ; and before the voyage was completed, he 
 treated him as if he were his own son. Jackson lost no 
 opportunity of annoying or insulting him ; but the support 
 of his patron indemnified Newton for the conduct of the 
 first-mate, and he resolved to take no notice of that which 
 could not well be prevented On their arrival at Barbadoes 
 Mr. Berecroft went on shore to the house of the consignee ; 
 and then it was that the malignity of Jackson broke out in 
 all its violence. 
 
 The brig had discharged her cargo, and was lying in 
 Carlisle Bay, waiting for the sugars which were to be shipped 
 for Liverpool. One morning, when Newton, who for some 
 time had submitted to the tyranny of Jackson without 
 complaint, was standing at the main hatchway, giving 
 directions to the men below, who were arranging the dun- 
 nage at the bottom of the vessel, the first-mate came on 
 deck, and, watching his opportunity, staggered, with a rope 
 in his hand, against Newton, as if by accident, so as to 
 throw him over the coombings. Newton, who would have 
 immediately fallen to the bottom of the hold upon the 
 ballast, at the risk of his life suddenly seized hold of the 
 first-mate, not in sufficient time to recover his own balance, 
 but so firmly as to drag Jackson with him ; and down 
 they were both precipitated together. The first-mate, 
 having hold of one of the ropes leading down the main- 
 mast, clung fast to save himself, and in so doing also broke 
 the fall of Newton ; but the weight of their bodies dragged 
 the rope through Jackson's hands, which were lacerated to 
 the bone. Neither party were much hurt by the fall ; so 
 that the treachery of Jackson recoiled upon himself. 
 
 After this specimen of animosity, which was duly re- 
 ported to Mr. Berecroft, on his return on board, by the 
 seamen, who detested Jackson, and any thing like foul 
 play, his protector determined tJiat Newton should no 
 longer be subjected to further violence. At the request of 
 Mr. Berecroft, Newton was invited to stay at the house of 
 Mr. Kingston, the gentleman to whom the vessel had been 
 consigned — an offer which was gladly accepted. 
 
 Newton hatl not been many days on shore, when Mr.
 
 OB, THE WEHOHANT SERVICE. 97 
 
 Kii;igston, who had taken a strong interest in him, pro- 
 posed, in answer to many of his questions relative to the 
 slave trade, that they should make a party to visit a plant- 
 ation, the proprietor of which had been a resident, since 
 his youth, and judge for himself as to the truth of the 
 reports so industriously circulated by those who were so 
 inimical to the employment of a slave population. 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 " Abuun. The innocent 
 
 Vrunuko. 'i'liese men arc so, wliom you would rise against. 
 If we are slaves, they diil not make us slaves, 
 But bought us in the honest way of trade. 
 As we have done before 'era, bought and sold 
 Many a wretch, and never thought it wrong. 
 They paid our price for us, and we are now 
 'I'heJr property, a part of their estate, 
 'Jo manage as tliey please." 
 
 At an early hour the party, consisting of Mr. Kingston 
 the master of the brig, and Newton, set off upon mules for 
 the habitation of the planter. The sun had illumined the 
 sky, but had not yet made its appearance, although the 
 golden fringes upon the clouds which floated in broad belts 
 in the horizon, indicated his glorious yet withering ap- 
 proach. The dew moistened each leaf, or hung in glitter- 
 ing pendant drops upon the thorn of the prickly pears 
 which lined the roads. The web of the silver-banded 
 spider was extended between the bushes, and, saturated 
 with moisture, reflected the beams of the rising orb, as 
 the animals danced in the centre, to dazzle their expected 
 prey. The mist still hovered on the valleys, and con- 
 cealed a part of the landscape from their view ; and the 
 occasional sound of the fall of water was mingled with the 
 twittering and chirping of the birds, as they flew from 
 spray to spray. The air was fresh, even to keenness, and 
 any one suddenly wafted to the scene would little have 
 imagined that he was under the torrid zone. 
 
 " How different this is from the ideas generally formed
 
 98 NEWTON VORSTER ; 
 
 of the climate ia the West Indies ! " observed Newton. 
 " In Englandj we couple it with iiisufFerable heat and the 
 yellow fever." 
 
 " Your reports are from those who seldom leave the 
 harbours or towns, where such indeed prevail," replied 
 Kingston. ^' There is no island in the Caribbean sea where 
 the early riser may not enjoy this delightful bracing at- 
 mosphere. At Jamaica, in particular, where they collect 
 as much snow as they please in the mountains ; yet, at the 
 same time, there is not a more fatal and unhealthy spot than 
 Port Royal harbour, in the same island." 
 
 " Is the plantation we are going to situated as high 
 above the level of the sea as we are now .-' " 
 
 " No ; most plantations are in the ravines, between the 
 hills. The sugar-cane requires heat. As soon as we are 
 © on the summit of this next hill we shall descend to it." 
 
 In half an hour they arrived at the end of their journey, 
 when they stopped at an extensive range of low buildings,, 
 situated at the head of the valley, which descended to the 
 sea, now for the first time presented to their view since 
 they had quitted Bridgetown. The owner of the estate 
 was at the door to receive them. He was a tall, spare 
 man, dressed in nankeen jacket and trousers, with a large- 
 brimmed straw-hat upon his head. 
 
 " Welcome, gentlemen, welcome. Kingston, how are 
 you ? " said he, as they stopped. " Now dismount, gen- 
 tlemen ; the boys will take the mules. Boy Jack, where 
 are you .'' Where 's Baby and where 's Bulky ? Come 
 here you lazy rascals and take the mules. Now then, gen- 
 tlemen, I '11 show you the way. I ordered breakfast on 
 the table, as I saw you coming down the hill." 
 
 So saying, the old gentleman led the way through a 
 portico. At the sight of strangers the windows under- 
 neath were crowded with faces of various degrees of 
 colour — eyes and mouths wide open, the latter displaying 
 rows of teeth so even and so brilliantly white, that they 
 might cause a sensation of envy to many an English belle. 
 
 The party were ushered into a spacious and cool apart- 
 ment on the ground-floor, where a table was covered with 
 all the varieties of a tropical breakfast, consisting of fried
 
 OR, THE aiEnCHANT SERVICE. 99 
 
 fisli, curries, devilled poultry, salt meats, and every thing 
 which could tend to stimulate an enfeebled appetite. 
 
 " Now, gentlemen, let me recommend you to take a 
 white jacket ; you 'II be more at your ease, and there is no 
 ceremony here. Boy Jack, where 's the sangoree ? This 
 is a fine climate. Captain Berecroft; all you have to attend 
 to is — to be temperate, and not to check the perspiration." 
 
 Boy Jack, who, par parenthese, was a stout, well-looking 
 negro, of about forty years of age, now made his appear- 
 ance with the sangoree. This was a beverage composed 
 of half a bottle of brandy, and two bottles of Madeira, to 
 which were added a proportion of sugar, lime-juice, and 
 nutmeg, with water ad lib. It was contained in a glass 
 bowl, capable of holding two gallons, standing upon a 
 single stalk, and bearing the appearance of a Brobdignag 
 rummer. Boy Jack brought it with both hands, and 
 placed it before his master. 
 
 " Now, sir, will you drink? " said the planter, address- 
 ing Mr. Berecroft. 
 
 " Thank you," replied Mr. Berecroft, *' I never drink 
 so early in the morning." 
 
 " Drink ! why this is nothing but swizzle. Here 's 
 your health, sir, I '11 show you the way.'' 
 
 The large goblet was fixed to his lips for upwards of a 
 minute : at last they unwillingly separated, and the old 
 planter recovered his respiration with a deep sigh. " Now 
 then, gentlemen, do you take a little, don't be afraid; 
 there 's nothing you may'nt do in this climate, only be 
 temperate and don't check the perspiration." At this 
 moment Newton was startled, and looked under the table. 
 
 " I thought it was a dog. but it 's a little black child.'' 
 
 " Oh ! there 's one out, is tliere ? Why, Boy Jack, did 
 I not tell you to shut them all in?" 
 
 " Yes, sar, so I did," said the black man, looking under 
 the table. "Eh! — it's that d — d little nigger — two 
 year old Sambo — no possible keep him in, sar. — Come 
 out, Sambo." 
 
 " The child crawled out to his master, and climbed up 
 by his knee : the old planter patted his woolly head, and 
 H 2
 
 J0»-,. NEWTON FOUSTER ; 
 
 /gave him a piece of grilled turkey, with which he imme- 
 Wiately dived again under the table. 
 
 " The fact is, captain, they are accustomed to come in at 
 breakfast time ; they are only shut out to-day because I 
 have company. That door behind me leads into the 
 nursery yard." 
 
 " The nursery yard ! " 
 
 " Yes, I'll show it vou by-and-bye ; there's plenty of 
 them there." 
 
 " Oh, pray let us have them in — I wish to see them, 
 and should be sorry to be the cause of their being disap- 
 pointed." 
 
 " Open the door. Boy Jack." As soon as it was open, 
 about twenty black children, from seven to three years old, 
 most of them naked, with their ivory skins like a pohshed 
 table, and quite pot-bellied from good living, tumbled into 
 the room, to the great amusement of Newton and the party. 
 They were followed by seven or eight more, who were not 
 yet old enough to walk ; but they crawled upon all-fours 
 almost as fast as the others, who could walk erect after the 
 image of their Maker. 
 
 The company amused themselves with distributing to 
 the children the contents of the dishes on the table — the 
 elder ones nestling alongside of the planter and his friends 
 Avith the greatest familiarity, while the youngest sat up- 
 right on the floor, laughing as they devoured their respec- 
 tive portions. 
 
 " Of course, these are all slaves ? " observed Mr. 
 Berecroft. 
 
 " Yes, bred them all myself," replied the planter; 
 "' indeed, out of two hundred and fifteen which I have on 
 the estate, I think that there are not more than twelve who 
 were not born on this property, during my father's time 
 or mine. Perhaps, as breakfast is over, you will like to 
 inspect my nursery." 
 
 The planter led the way into the yard from which the 
 children had entered. It was a square, of about two roods 
 of ground, three sides of which were enclosed by rows of 
 small houses, of two rooms each ; and most of them were 
 occupied by female slaves, either nursing children at the
 
 OR, IHE MERCHANT SERVICE. 101 
 
 breast, or expecting very soon to have that duty to per- 
 form. They received their master with a smiling face, as 
 he addressed a question to each of them when he entered 
 their abode. 
 
 "Now these are all my breeding women ; they do no 
 work, only take care of the children, who remain here until 
 they are eight or nine years old. We have a surgeon on 
 the estate, who attends them as well as the other slaves 
 when they are sick. Now, if you feel inclined, we will go 
 round the works." 
 
 The old planter, in a few minutes' walk, brought tJiem to 
 an extensive row of detached cottages, each centered in a 
 piece of garden-ground, well stocked with yams, sweet 
 potatoes, bananas, and other tropical productions. Poultry 
 of all descriptions were scattered in profusion about the 
 place, and pigs appeared to be abundant. 
 
 " Now, captain, these are the cottages of the working 
 slaves. The garden-ground is allowed to them ; and what- 
 ever they can make by its produce, or by their pigs and 
 their poultry, is all their own." 
 
 ''But how are they subsisted ? " 
 
 " By rations, as regularly served out as yours are on 
 board of your vessel, and they have as nmch as they can 
 consume." 
 
 " Are they all single men ? " 
 
 " No, mostly married to slave girls on the estate : their 
 wives live with them, unless they breed, and then they are 
 removed up to the nurseries." 
 
 " And what work do you exact from them ? " 
 
 *' Eight hours a day. — except in cropt-time, and then we 
 are very busy ; so that they have plenty of leisure to look 
 after their own interests if they choose." 
 
 " Do they ever lay up much money .'' " 
 
 " Very often enough to purchase their freedom, if tliey 
 wished it." 
 
 '' If they wished it ! " replied Mr. Berecroft, with 
 surprise. 
 
 "Yes; without explanation, that may appear strange 
 to you, and still more strange, the fact, that freedom 
 cflercd has often been refused. A man who is a clever 
 H 3
 
 102 NEWTON forsteh; 
 
 workman as a carpenter, or any other trade, will purchase 
 his freedom if he can^ because artisans can obtain very high 
 wages here ; but a slave who, if I may use the term, is 
 only a common labourer, would hardly support himself, 
 and lay by nothing for his old age. They are aware of it. 
 I have offered emancipation to one or two who have grown 
 old, and they have refused it, and now remain as heir-looms 
 on the estate, provided with every thing, and doing little 
 or no work, if they please. You saw that old man sweep- 
 ing under the portico ? Well, he does that every day; and 
 it is all he has done for these five years. Now, if you please, 
 •we will go through the plantations, and visit the sugar- 
 mills.'^ 
 
 They passed the slaves, who were at work hoeing between 
 the canes ; and certainly, if an estimate of their condition 
 was to be taken by the noise and laughter with which they 
 beguiled their labour, they were far from demanding Jjity. 
 
 " But, I must confess, that there is something in that 
 cart-whip which I do not like," observed Newton. 
 
 " I grant it; but custom is not easily broken through ; 
 nor do we know any substitute. It is the badge of autho- 
 rity, and the noise of it is requisite to summon them to 
 their labour. ^Vith me it is seldom used, for it is not re- 
 quired ; and if you were captain of a man-of-war I should 
 
 answer you as I did Captain C ; to wit — I question 
 
 much whether my noisy whip is half so mischievous as 
 your silent cat." 
 
 The sugar-mills, stables of mules, boilers, coolers, &c. 
 were all examined, and the party returned to the plantatfon 
 house. 
 
 " Well, captain, now you have witnessed what is termed 
 slavery, what is your opinion ? Are your philanthropists 
 justified in their invectives against us ? " 
 
 *' First assure me that all other plantations are as well 
 regulated as your own," replied ]\Ir. Berecroft. 
 
 " If not, they soon will be : it is the interest of all the 
 planters that they should ; and by that, like all the rest of 
 the world, they will be guided." 
 
 *' But still there have been great acts of cruelty com-
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SlCllVICE. 103 
 
 •mitted ; quite enough to prepossess us against you as a 
 ■body.'' 
 
 " I grant that sucli has been the case, and may occasion- 
 ally be so now ; but do not the newspapers of England 
 teem with acts of barbarity ? Men are the same every where 
 But, sir, it is the misfortune of this world, that we never 
 know wlicn to stop. The abolition of the slave-trade was 
 an act of humanity, worthy of a country acting upon an 
 extended scale like England ; but your philanthropists, not 
 content with relieving the blacks, look forward to the ex- 
 termination of their own countrymen, the whites — who, 
 upon the faith and promise of the nation, were induced to 
 *"rnbark their capital in these islands." 
 
 '•' Doubtless they wish to abolish slavery altogether, ' 
 replied Berecroft. 
 
 '•' They must be content with having abolished the hor- 
 rors of it, sir," continued the planter. "At a time when 
 the. mart was open, and you could purchase another slave 
 to replace the one that had died from ill treatment, or dis- 
 ease, the life of a slave was not of such importance to his 
 proprietor as it is now. Moreover, the slaves imported 
 were adults who had been once free ; and torn as they were 
 from their natural soil and homes, where they slept in idle- 
 ness throughout the day, they were naturally morose and 
 obstinate, sulky and unv/illing to work. This occasioned 
 severe punishment ; and the hearts of their masters being 
 indurated by habit, it often led to acts of barbarity. But 
 slavery, since the abolition, has assumed a milder form — 
 it is a species of bond slavery. There are few slaves in 
 existence who have not been born upon the estates, and we 
 consider that they are more lawfully ours." 
 
 '■' Will you explain what you mean by more lawfully ? " 
 
 " I mean captain (for instance), that the father of that 
 boy (pointing to one of the negro lads who waited at break- 
 fast), was my slave ; that he worked for me until he was 
 an old man, and then I supported him for many years, un- 
 til he died. I mean, that I took care of this boy's mother, 
 who, as she bore children, never did any work after her 
 marriage, and has since been only an expense to me, and 
 probably will continue to be so for some years. I mean 
 H 4
 
 104 NEWTON FORSTER , 
 
 that that boy was taken care of, and fed hy me until he 
 ■was ten years old, without my receiving any return for the 
 expense which I incurred; and I therefore consider that 
 he is indebted to me as a bond slave, and that I am entitled 
 to his services ; and he in like manner, when he grows too 
 old to work, will become a pensioner, as his father was 
 before him." 
 
 " I perceive the drift of your argument ; you do not 
 defend slavery generally." 
 
 " No ; I consider a man born free and made a slave, 
 is justified in resorting to any means to deliver himself; 
 but a slave that I have reared is lawfully a slave, and boun(i 
 to remain so, unless he can repay me the expense I have 
 incurred. But dinner is ready, captain ; if you wish 
 to argue the matter further, it must be over a bottle of 
 claret." 
 
 The dinner was well dressed, and the Madeira and claret 
 (the only wines produced), of the best quality. Their host 
 did the honours of his table with true West Indian hos- 
 pitality, circulating the bottle after dinner with a rapidity 
 which would soon have produced an effect upon less pru- 
 dent visitors ; and when Mr. Berecroft refused to take 
 any more wine, he ordered the ingredients for arrack 
 punch. 
 
 "■ Now, Mr. Forster, you must take a tumbler of this, and 
 I think that you'll pronounce it excellent. 
 
 " Indeed ! " replied. Newton. 
 
 " Nay, I will take no denial ; don ' t be afraid ; you 
 may do any thing you please in this climate, only be tempe- 
 rate, and don't check the perspiration." 
 
 ''Well, but,"observed Newton, who placed the tumbler of 
 punch before him, " you promised to renew your argument 
 after dinner ; and I should like to hear what you have to 
 urge in defence of a system which I never have heard de- 
 fended before." 
 
 " Well," replied his host, upon whom the wine and 
 punch had begun to take effect, "just let me fiUsjCiy 
 tumbler again to keep my lips moist, and then I'll prove 
 to you that slavery has existed from the earliest times, and 
 fe not at variance with the religion we profess. That it
 
 OR, THE BIKRCHANT SERVICE. 105' 
 
 has existed from the earliest times, you need only refer tc 
 the book of Genesis ; and that it is not at variance with our 
 reh'gion, I must refer to the fourth commandment. How 
 can that part of the commandment be construed, ' and the 
 stranger that is within thy gates ? ' To whom can this 
 possibly apply but to the slave? After directing, that the 
 labour of all the household, 'man-servant and maid-servant,' 
 should cease, it then proceeds to the ox and the ass, and 
 the stranger that is within thy gates. Now, gentlemen, 
 this cannot be applied to the stranger in the literal sense of 
 the word, the hospitality of the age forbidding that labour 
 should be required of him. At that time slaves were 
 brought from fcrtign lands, and were a source of traffic, as 
 may be inferred by the readiness with which the Ishmael- 
 ites purchased Joseph of his brethren, and resold him in 
 Egypt. 
 
 " Nay, that slavery was permitted by the Ahnighfi/ is 
 fully proved by the state of the Jewish nation, until He 
 thought proper to bring them out of the house of bondage. 
 
 " If then the laws of God provided against the ill treat- 
 ment of the slave, slavery is virtually acknowledged, as not 
 being contrary to his divine will. We have a further proof, 
 suhscquent to the, mission of our Saviour, that the Apostles 
 considered slavery as lawful." 
 
 " I remember it : you refer to Paul sending back the 
 runaway slave Onesimus. Well, I'll admit all this," re- 
 plied Mr. Berecroft, who had a great dislike to points of 
 Scripture being canvassed after dinner ; " and I wish to 
 know what inference you would draw from it." 
 
 " That I was just coming to : I assert that my property 
 in slaves is therefore as legally mine as my property in land 
 or money ; and that any attempt to deprive me of cither 
 is equally a robbery, whether it be. made by the nation, or 
 by an individual. But now, sir^ allow me to ask you a 
 juestion ; show nie where liberty is ? — Run over all the 
 classes of society, and point out one man who is free." 
 
 Mr. Berecroft, who perceived the effect of the arrack 
 unnch, could not refrain from laughing as he replied, 
 " Well, your friend Mr. Kingston, is he not free } " 
 
 " Free ! not half so free as that slave boy who stands
 
 106 NEWTON KORSTER r 
 
 behind your chair. ^^''hy, he is a merchant^ and whether 
 he lives upon a scale of princely expenditure^ whether whole- 
 sale or retail, banker or proprietor of a chandler's shop, he 
 is a speculator. Anxious days and sleepless nights await 
 upon speculation. A man with his capital embarked, who 
 may be a beggar on the ensuing day, cannot lie down upon 
 roses : he is the slave of Mammon. AVho are greater slaves 
 than sailors ? So are soldiers, and all wiiO hold employ under 
 government. So are politicians ; they are slaves to their 
 tongues, for opinions once expressed, and parties once 
 joined, at an age when reason is borne down by enthusi- 
 asm, and they are fixed for life against their conscience, 
 and are unable to follow its dictates without blasting 
 their characters. Courtiers are slaves you must acknow- 
 ledge." 
 
 " I beg your pardon," interrupted Kingston, . " but 1 
 perceive that you make i.o distinction between those en- 
 thralled by their own consent, and against it." 
 
 "It is a distinction without a difference," replied the 
 planter, " even if it were so, which it is not, but in parti- 
 cular cases. The fact is, society enthralls us all. We are 
 forced to obey laws, to regard customs, to follow the fashion 
 of the day, to support the worthless by poor-rates, to pay 
 taxes, and the interest of a debt which others have con- 
 tracted, or we must go to prison." 
 
 ' And the princes and rulers of the land — do you in- 
 clude them ? '" inquired NeAvton. 
 
 " They are the greatest of all ; for the meanest peasant 
 has an advantage over the prince in the point on which 
 we most desire to be free — that of the choice in his partner 
 in life. He has none, but must submit to the wishes of 
 his people, and trammelled by custom, must take to his bed 
 one Avhoin he cannot take to his heart." 
 
 " Well, by your account there is nobody free, unless it 
 be Liberty herself." 
 
 " Why, sir," rejoined the planter, "to prove to you that 
 I was correct when I asserted that there was no such Idling 
 in this world as liberty, paradoxical as it may appear^ 
 Liberty is but Liberty when in bondage. Release her, and
 
 OR, TIIK .'.UcnCIlANT SUllVICE. 107 
 
 she ceases to exist ; she has changed lier nature and cha- 
 racter ; for Liberty unreatraincd becomes Licentiousness." 
 
 " Well," said Mr. Kingston, laughing with the rest at 
 this curious remark, " as you have now arrived at your 
 climax, with your leave we will go to bed." 
 
 " Have I convinced you.^ "demanded the planter, taking 
 ;he tumbler from his lips. 
 
 " At least you have silenced us. Now, if you please, 
 we will put on our coats and retire to our apartments. 
 
 " Yes — do," replied the other_, who was not very steady 
 "do — or you may check the perspiration. Boy Jack, 
 where are the lights } Good night, gentlemen."' 
 
 The negro led the way to a large room with two beds in 
 it, for Newton and the master of the brig. Having first 
 pointed out to them that there was a jug of sangoree, 
 '' suppose gentlemen thirsty," he wished them good night, 
 and left the room. 
 
 " Well, Newton," said Mr. Berecroft as soon as they 
 were alone, " what do you think of the planter } " 
 
 " I think that, considering his constant advice to be 
 temperate, he swallowed a very large quantity of arrack 
 punch.'' / 
 
 " He did indeed ; but what think you of his argu- 
 ments f " 
 
 " I hardly can say, except that none of them were suf- 
 ficiently coru'incing to induce me to be a slave proprietor. 
 We may perhaps, as he asserts, have contented our- 
 selves with the shadow instead of the substance ; but 
 €ven the shadow of liberty is to be venerated by an 
 Englishman." 
 
 " I agree with you, my boy. His discourse did how 
 ever bring one idea into my head ; which is, that there is a 
 remarkable connection between religion and slaveiy. It 
 was in a state of bondage that the Jews were prepared to 
 receive the promised land, and whenever they fell off from 
 the true worship they Avere punished by captivity. It was 
 threugh the means of slavery that the light of the true faith 
 was first brought to our island, where it has burnt with 
 a purer flame than elsewhere ; for, if you recollect, the 
 beauty of some English children exposed for sale at Ronae,
 
 tU» . NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 assisted by a Latin pun, caused the introduction of Chris- 
 tianity into Great Britain ; and who knows but that this 
 traffic, so offensive to humanity, has been permitted by an 
 Allwise Power with the intent that some day it shall be the 
 means of introducing Christianity into the vast regions oi 
 African idolatry ?" 
 
 " True," observed Newton, " and the time may not be 
 far distant." 
 
 " That it is impossible to calculate upon. He worketli 
 by his own means, which are inscrutable. It was not the 
 cause of virtue, but a desire that vice might be less tram- 
 melled, which introduced the reformation in England. 
 The more we attempt to interfere with the arrangements 
 of the Almighty, the more we shall make evident our own 
 folly and blindness, and his unsearchable and immutable 
 wisdom. — Good night, my boy." 
 
 CHAPTER XV. 
 
 Lucy. Are all these wretches slaves ? 
 
 Stanley. All sold, they and their posterity, all slaves. 
 
 Lucy. O 1 miserable fortune! 
 
 Bland. Most of them know no better, but were 
 
 JJorn so, and only change their masters. Oroonoko. 
 
 Thk party were up at an early hour on the ensuing morn- 
 ing, that they might enjoy the delightful freshness of the 
 air, which so soon evaporates before the scorching rays of 
 the tropical sun. They were joined ac breakfast by the 
 doctor who attended the estate, and who had called in to 
 announce the birth of a little negro boy in the early part 
 of the night. 
 
 " Who did you say, doctor ? " answered the planter, 
 " ]Mattee Sally .'' Why, I thought Jane Ascension was in 
 advance of her." 
 
 " They were running it neck and neck, sir," replied the 
 surgeon. 
 
 " Plow is she — quite hearty .'' "
 
 on, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 109 
 
 *' Quite, sir ; but very anxious about tlie child's name, 
 and requests to speak with you as soon as you have break- 
 fasted." 
 
 " We'will go to her. You have no idea," observed the 
 planter to Mr. Berecroft and Newton, " what importance 
 these people attach to the naming of their children. 
 Nothing but a fine long name will satisfy them. I really 
 believe, that if 1 refused her, or called the boy Tom, she 
 would eat dirt. I believe we have all done ; Boy Jack, 
 bring the sangoree. Doctor, I dare say that your clay 
 wants moistening, so take the first pull." 
 
 This important commencement and finale to the repast 
 having been duly administered, they proceeded to the range 
 of buildings before mentioned, in one of which they found 
 the lady in the straw, sitting up, and showing her white 
 teeth at her master's approach, as if nothing very particular 
 had occurred. 
 
 " Well, Mattee, how are you .'' " said the planter. 
 " Where 's the piccaninny ? " 
 
 *'Ab um here, sar — keep im warm," replied the woman, 
 pointing to a roll of blanket, in which the little crea- 
 ture was enveloped. 
 
 " Let us see him, Mattee." 
 
 " No, sar, too cold yet — bye bye, massa, see um ; make 
 very fine sleep now. — Suppose white piccaninny, suppose 
 black piccaninny — all same, — like plenty sleep. Um 
 know very well, hab plenty work to do bye and bye — 
 sleep all dey can, when lilly." 
 
 " But you '11 smother him," observed Newton. 
 
 " Smoder him ? — what dat — eh .'' — I know now 
 massa mean, stop um breath. — No: suppose him no 
 smoder before, no smoder now, sar. Massa," continued 
 the woman, turning to the planter, " no ab name for jmc- 
 caninny ? " 
 
 "Well, Mattee, we must find one; these gentlemen 
 will give him a name. Come, captain, what name do you 
 propose ? " 
 
 " Suppose we christen him Snub," replied Berecroft, 
 winking at the rest. 
 
 ** Snob ! What sort a name you call dat, sar ? " re-
 
 11 NEWTON FORSTEU j 
 
 plied the woman, tossing up her head. ^' Snob ! no, sar, 
 you 'front me very m-uch. Snob not proper name.'' 
 
 "Well, then Mr. Forster," said the planter, "try if you 
 can be more fortunate.'' 
 
 " What do you think of Chrononhotonthologus .'' " said 
 Newton to the woman. 
 
 " Eh ! wliat dat } — say dat again, sar/' repUed the 
 woman. 
 
 " Chrononhotonthologus." 
 
 " Eh ! dat real fine name for piccaninny," cried the 
 woman, with delight in her countenance. " Many tanky, 
 sar. Chroton — polygarse." 
 
 "■ No, no," replied Newton, laughing ; " Chrononho- 
 tonthologus." 
 
 " Es, hab um now — Hoten — tolyglass. 
 
 "Noj that's only part. Chronon — hoton — thologus." 
 
 " I see — very fine name — Proton — choton — polly- 
 glass." 
 
 " Yes, that 's nearer to it," replied Newton. 
 
 " Well, then, that point's settled," said the planter to the 
 woman. " Is it all right, Mattee ? " 
 
 " Es, massa ; many tanks to gentleman — very fine 
 iiame, do very well, sar." 
 
 " Doctor, put the name down opposite the register of the 
 birth. Now, Mattee, all 's right, good bye," said the planter, 
 leaving the room, and followed by the others. 
 
 "Do you really intend to call the child by that name?" 
 inquired Mr. Berecroft. 
 
 " Why not .'' it pleases the woman, and is as good as 
 any other ; it is of no consequence. They almost all have 
 names, certainly not quite so long as the present; but, as 
 they grow longer, their names grow shorter. This name 
 ■^vill first be abbreviated to Chrony ; if we find that too 
 long, it will be reduced again to Crow ; which by the 
 bye, is not a bad name for a negro,'' said the planter, laugh- 
 ing at the coincidence. 
 
 Reader, did you ever perchance, when in a farm-yard, 
 observe a hen or other domestic fowl, who having pounced 
 upon half a potato, or something of the same description 
 too large to be bolted down at once, tries to escape with her
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SEUVICE. Ill 
 
 prize, followed by all the rest, until she titlier drops it or 
 eludes their vigilance ? If so, you form some idea of a 
 negro woman, with a hard word in her mouth: Avhich, al- 
 thougli she does not know the meaning of, she considers as 
 an equal treasure. 
 
 Newton had turned round to the court-yard, in the 
 centre of which several women were sitting down at various 
 employments ; when one who had been busied in some 
 little offices for the woman whom they had just visited, 
 and had in consequence been present at the choice of the 
 name, took her seat with the party in question. To several 
 queries put to her, she replied with extreme hauteur, as if 
 she considered them as impertinent, and frowned upon her 
 companions most majestically. 
 
 After a short time she rose, and turning round, wilh the 
 look of an empress, said, " Now, I shall go look after my 
 Hoton-poton-pollybass." 
 
 " Eh ? " cried one, opening her eyes with wonder. 
 
 " What dat ? " screamed another. 
 
 " How you call dat long ting ? " demanded a third. 
 
 " Eh ! you tupid black tings;" replied the proud pos- 
 sessor of the new word, with a look of ineffable scorn, '' you 
 no know what um call Poton-hoton-poU-i'uss. Me no tell 
 you,'' continued she, as she walked away, leaving the 
 others almost white with envy and astonishment. 
 
 Shortly after this Mr, Kingston with his party took their 
 leave of the hospitable old planter, and commenced their 
 return to Bridgetown. They had not proceeded further 
 than a quarter of a mile when, ascending a little hill, New- 
 ton discovered that a negro was assisting his own ascent by 
 hanging on to the tail of his mule. 
 
 " How you do this morning, sar ! " said the man, grin- 
 ning, as Newton looked round. 
 
 " I'm very well, sir, I thank you ; but I'm afraid I shall 
 not be able to keep up with the rest, if my mule has to pull 
 you up hill, as well as carry me." 
 
 •'Es, sar, mule go faster. Massa not miderstand; mule 
 very obstinate, sar. Suppose you want go one way, he go 
 anoder — suppose you pull him back by tail, lie go on 
 more."
 
 112 NEWTON ronsTKn ; 
 
 " "Well, if that 's the case you may hold on. Do you 
 belong to the plantation ? " 
 
 " No, sar, me free man. Me work there ; carpenter, 
 sar." 
 
 " A carpenter ! How did you learn your trade, and obtain 
 your freedom ? " 
 
 " Larn trade board man-of-war, sar — man-of-war make 
 me free." 
 
 Mr. Berecroft, who had been listening to the colloquy, 
 took up the discourse. 
 
 " \yere you born in this country ? " 
 
 " No, sar ! me Ashantee man." 
 
 ''Then how did you come here? " 
 
 Why, sar, ab very fine battle in Ashantee country. Take 
 me and send me down to coast ; sell me for slave. Go on 
 board French schooner — English frigate take schooner, 
 send me to Sarra Leon." 
 
 " Well, what did you do there ? " 
 
 " Bind 'prentice, sar, to Massa Cawly, for farteen years 
 — all de same as slave ; work very hard ; yam bad ; plenty 
 fever in that country — much better here." 
 
 "• Then how did you get away from Sierra Leon ? " 
 
 " Go to sleep one day in de bush — tieves come steal me, 
 take me down to coast, sell me again." 
 
 " Well, where did you go then } " 
 
 " Bard schooner again, sar. Another man-of-war take 
 schooner in West Indies; send her in prize. Keep me 
 and some on board becase want hands ; keep me, becase 
 speak little English." 
 
 " How did you like a man-of-war ? " inquired Newton. 
 
 " Man-of-war very fine place; but all slaves there — 
 captain steal men every ship he come to. But sailor no 
 link so ; ebery night we all sing — Britong nebber, nebber, 
 nebber, will be slave. Make me laugh, sar," continued the 
 man, showing his teeth with a broad grin. 
 
 " What was the frigate's name ? " 
 
 '' Very fine name, sar, call her Daddy Wise." * 
 
 " How long were you on board of her } " 
 
 " Far year, sar ; larn carpenter trade — go to England 
 
 * Dedaisneuse, wc suppose.
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 113 
 
 — pay off — get plenty money — come out here In 
 marchant vessel — England very fine place, but too much 
 cold," said the negro, shuddering at the bare recollection. 
 
 '* Now tell me," said Kingston, " of course you recollect 
 being in your own country .'' — Which do you like best — 
 that or this ? " 
 
 " Ashantee very good country — Barbadoes very good 
 country. Asliantee nebber work, hab no money — here 
 plenty work, plenty money." 
 
 " Well, but where would you rather be, here or there ?" 
 
 " Don't know, sar. Like to find country where no work, 
 plenty money." 
 
 " Not singular in his opinion," observed Newton. 
 
 " Men do all work here, sar : women only talk," con- 
 tinued the negro. " My country, men nebber work at all 
 
 — women do all work, and feed men." 
 
 " Then what does the man do ? " inquired Berecroft. 
 
 '' Man, sar," replied the negro proudly, " man go fight 
 — go kill." 
 
 " Is that all ? " 
 
 *• Yes, sar, that all." 
 
 " So, you then mean to say, that if you could go back to 
 Ashantee now, you would remain there ? " 
 
 " Yes, sar, stay there — do no work — sleep all day — 
 make women feed me." 
 
 " How inveterate is early habit ! " observed Mr. Bere- 
 croft. " This man, although free in a civilised country, 
 would return to his idleness and resume his former ig- 
 norance." 
 
 " And so would every slave not born in the country. It 
 requires one or two generations to destroy this savage na- 
 ture," replied Kingston. " I believe idleness, like gout, to 
 be an hereditary disease, either in black or white ; I have 
 often observed it in the latter. Now, until man labours 
 there is no chance of civilisation ; and, improved as the race 
 of Africa have been in these islands, I still thuik that if 
 manumitted, they would all starve. In tlieir own country 
 nature is so bountiful that little or no labour is required for 
 the support of life ; but in these islands the soil, although 
 luxuriant, must be nurtured,"
 
 114 NRWTON forsteb; 
 
 '• You do then look forward to their ultimate freedom ? " 
 inquired Newton. 
 
 "^ Most assuredly. Already much has been done, and if 
 not persecuted, we should be able and willing to do much 
 more." 
 
 "■ The public mind in England is certainly much in- 
 flamed against you," said Berecroft. 
 
 " It is ; or rather, I should say, the more numerous 
 pubUc composed of those persons unable to think for them- 
 selves, and in consequence, led by others, styling themselves 
 philanthropists, but appearing to have very Jesuitical ideas 
 with regard to truth. This I have no hesitation in assert- 
 ing, that if philanthropy had not been found to have been 
 so very profitable, it never would have had so many vota- 
 ries : true philanthropy, like charity, begins at home. 
 Observe how the papers teem with the misery of the lower 
 classes in England, yet this affects not the West India phi- 
 lanthropist. You perceive not their voices raised in behalf 
 of their suffering countrymen. They pass the beggar in 
 the street ; they heed not the cry of starvation at home ; 
 but every where raise petitions for emancipatiou ; or, in 
 fact, for the destruction of the property of others. That it 
 is an invidious property, I grant, and I wish I could dis- 
 pose of mine ; but that is not so easy. My ancestors 
 embarked their capital in these islands upon the faith and 
 promises of the country, when opinions were very different 
 from what they are now, and I cannot help myself. How- 
 ever, the time will come when England will bitterly rue the 
 having Ustened to the suggestions and outcries of these in- 
 terested people." 
 
 " I do not understand you . — How do you mean ? " 
 
 " I said before, that it was on the faith of the country 
 that we embarked our property in these islands. You are 
 not perhaps aware, that when in the reign of Queen Anne 
 the Assiento treaty was made, by which we obtained the 
 privilege of supplying all the islands with slaves, it was 
 considered as one of the most important acquisitions that 
 could be obtained. Public opinion has now changed ; but 
 if a nation changes her opinion, she must at the same time 
 be just. Let the country take our estates and negroes at ■
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 115 
 
 fair valuatioiij and we shall be most happy to surrender 
 them. If she frees the slaves without so doing, she is 
 guilty of robbery and injustice, and infringes on the con- 
 stitution of the country, which protects all property, and 
 will of course allow us to decide upon our own measures." 
 
 " May I inquire what those would be?" 
 
 "Throwing off the yoke, declaring ourselves independent, 
 and putting ourselves under the protection of America, who 
 will gladly receive us, aware that we shall be a source not 
 only of wealth but of security." 
 
 " "VVould America risk a war to obtain these islands ? " 
 
 " She would be foolish not to do so ; and England would 
 be more than foohsh to engage in one. It is true, that if 
 not immediately supported by America, England might 
 create a scene of confusion and bloodshed in the colonies; 
 but the world has too often had the severe lesson, that co- 
 lonies once detaching themselves are never to be regained. 
 England would therefore be only entailing an useless ex- 
 pense, however gratifying it might be to her feelings of 
 revenge." 
 
 " But do you think that this is likely to occur ? " 
 
 " I do, most certainly, if those who govern continue to 
 listen to the insiduous advice of the party denominated 
 'Saints;' and I am afraid that it will not be until these 
 islands are separated from the mother-country, that she will 
 appreciate their value. Our resolution once formed, we 
 white slaves (for slaves we are) will not flinch ; and the 
 islands of the Caribbean Sea will be inroUed as another star, 
 and add another stripe to the independent flag, which is 
 their natural protector." 
 
 " I trust that will never come to pass." 
 
 " And so do I, Mr. Berecroft, for I am an Englishman, 
 and love my country, and the loss of these colonies would 
 be a blow from which England would never recover." 
 
 " You forget her extensive colonies in the East." 
 
 " I do not ; but the West Indies add to her wealth and 
 her commercial prosperity, to her nursery of seamen and 
 her exhausted revenue. They, on the contrary, add only 
 to her grandeur, for they cost the country three millions a 
 year; and I doubt whether at that expense it is worth 
 I 2
 
 Il6 NEWTON FORSTEK; 
 
 while to retain any colony, however vast and extensive it 
 may be. I consider, that if the East India ports were 
 open to all the world, and the territory governed by its 
 former princes, England, with all the competition which 
 would take place, would yet be a gainer ; and, on the 
 other hand, I know that by the loss of these islands, she 
 %vould find a decrease of millions in her revenue." 
 
 '•' Then the philanthropists must pay the national debt.'' " 
 observed New ton j laughing. 
 
 "They be d d !" replied Kingston, who was warm 
 
 with his argument ; "■ they would not pay a farthing," 
 
 CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 The sca-breach'd vessel can no longer bear 
 
 The floods that o'er her burst in dread career. 
 
 The labouring hull already seems half till'd 
 
 With water, through an hundred leaks distill'd : 
 
 Thus drench'd by every wave, her riven deck, 
 
 Stript and defenceless, floats a naked wreck. Falconer. 
 
 Newton remained at Bridgetown, under the roof of Mr. 
 Kingston, for more than three weeks, by which time the 
 brig was laden, and waiting for convoy to proceed to Eng- 
 land. 
 
 Mr. Berecroft had made every preparation for his voyage, 
 when an unexpected circumstance occurred, which eventu- 
 ally proved the occasion of great hardship and danger to 
 Newton. This was, the master of a large ship, belonging 
 to the same owners, and then lying in Carlisle Bay, to 
 proceed homeward by the same convoy, had so ingratiated 
 himself with a wealthy widow residing upon the island, 
 that rather than he should again trust himself to the fickle 
 element, she had been induced to surrender up to him her 
 plantation, her negroes, and her fair self, all equally bound 
 to honour and obey through their future lives. 
 
 Mr. Berecroft, in consequence of this resignation of 
 his brother captain, was appointed to the command of the
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 117 
 
 larger vessel ; and Jackson, the first-mate, ordered to take 
 the command of the Eliza and Jane. This was a sad blow 
 to Newton, and one which he could not avoid, as Mr. 
 Berecroft could not take him in his new ship, all the sub- 
 ordinate situations being already filled up. 
 
 At first, he was inclined to quit the brig ; but by the 
 advice of Mr. Berecroft and Kingston^ he was persuaded 
 to go the passage home, as he was now first-mate of the 
 vessel, and would incur forfeiture of all wages if he broke 
 the articles which he had signed at Liverpool. Unpleasant 
 as the prospect was, he was further induced by Berecroft's 
 assurance, that now Jackson was provided for, he would 
 arrange with the owners that Newton should be appointed 
 the first-mate of his own ship, as soon as they arrived in 
 England. 
 
 In a few days the men of war made their appearance. 
 Newton who had remained on shore until the last moment, 
 shook hands with his friendly patron, and thanking Mr. 
 Kingston for his kindness, went on board of the vessel with 
 a sorrowful and foreboding heart. 
 
 Nor was he at all inclined to cheer up as he stepped on 
 the deck of the brig, and beheld Jackson with a handspike, 
 still brandishing over his head, standing across the body of 
 one of the seamen, whom he had just dashed to the deck 
 with the implement in his hand. At the sight of Newton, 
 the wrath of the new captain appeared to be increased. 
 He eyed him malevolently, and then observed with a sneer, 
 " that 's what all skulkers may expect on board of my 
 vessel." 
 
 Newton made no answer, and Jackson went forward, 
 where the remainder of the crew were heaving up the an- 
 chor with the windlass. Newton walked up to the seaman, 
 who appeared still insensible, and examined him. The iron 
 plate at the end of the handspike had cut deep into the skull, 
 and there was every appearance of a contusion of the brain. 
 
 Calling the boy who attended the cabin, Newton, with 
 his assistance, carried the man below and laid him in his 
 berth. He then repaired on deck, and took the helm, the 
 anchor of the brig being atrip. In a quarter of an hour 
 Jie sail was on her. and she followed the course steered by 
 
 3
 
 118 NKWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 the men-of-war, who were about to run through the other 
 islands, and pick up several vessels, who were for their 
 protection. 
 
 " If you expect an easy berth, as first-mate, you are 
 mistaken my joker," said Jackson to Newton, as he steered 
 the vessel ; " you 've skulked long enough, and shall now 
 work double tides, or take the consequence. If you don't, 
 rilbed— d!" 
 
 " I shall do my duty, Mr. Jackson," replied Newton, 
 "^and fear no consequences." 
 
 " Indeed ! you saw how I settled a skulk just now ; — 
 beware of his fate'! " 
 
 " I neither anticipate it nor fear it^ Mr. Jackson. If it 
 comes to handspikes, two can play at that game, I rather 
 think that before many hours are over you will be sorry 
 for your violence, for I believe that man to be in considera- 
 ble danger. Even. now, I should recommend you to de 
 mand surgical assistance from the frigate." 
 
 "Demand it, if you dare — I am captain of this ship, 
 sir. The rascal may die and be d — d!" 
 
 To this disgusting speech Newton made no reply. He 
 had made up his mind to put up with every thing short of 
 downright aggression, and for three days more, he obeyed 
 all orders, however arbitrary and however annoying. During 
 this period the man who had been injured became gradually 
 worse ; his illness increased rapidly, and on the fifth day 
 he became delirious and in a state of high fever, when 
 Newton again pointed out the propriety of asking surgical 
 aid from one of the men-of-war. This suggestion was 
 answered by Jackson, who was now really alarmed, with a 
 voUey of oaths and execrations, ending with a flat refusal. 
 The crew of the brig murmured, and collected together 
 forward, looking occasionally at the men-of-war as they 
 spoke in whispers to each other; but they were afraid of 
 Jackson's violence, and none ventured to speak out. Jack- 
 son paced the deck in a state of irritation and excitement 
 as he listened to the ravings of his victim, which were loud 
 enough to be heard all over the vessel. As the evening 
 closed, the men, taking the opportunity of Jackson's going 
 below, went up to Newton, who was walking aft, and
 
 on THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 119 
 
 Stated their determination that tlie next mornings whether 
 the master consented to it or not, they would hail the 
 frigate, and demand surgical assistance for their shipmate. 
 In the midst of the colloquy Jackson, who hearing the 
 noise overhead of the people coming aft, had a suspicion of 
 the cause, and had been listening at the bottom of the lad- 
 der to Avhat was said, came up the hatchway, and accusing 
 Newton of attempting to raise a mutiny, ordered him im- 
 mediately to his cabin, stating his intention of sending him 
 on board of the frigate the next morning to be placed in 
 confinement. 
 
 " I shaU obey your order," replied Newton, "^ as you 
 are in command of this vessel. I only hope that you will 
 adhere to your resolution of communicating with the 
 frigate." So saying, he descended the companion hatch. 
 
 But Jackson, who, both from the information of the cabin- 
 boy, and the fact that the incoherent ravings of his victim 
 became hourly more feeble, thought himself in jeopardy, 
 had no such intention. As the night closed in, he re- 
 mained on deck gradually taking off first one sail and then 
 another, until the brig was left far astern of the rest of the 
 convoy, and the next morning there was no other vessel in 
 sight ; then, on pretence of rejoining them, he made all 
 sail, at the same time changing his course, so as to pass 
 between two of the islands. Newton was the only one on 
 board who understood navigation besides Jackson, and 
 therefore the only one who could prove that he was escap- 
 ing from the convoy. He was in confinement below ; and 
 the men, whatever may have been their suspicions, could 
 not prove that they were not steering as they ought. 
 
 About twelve o'clock on that day the poor sailor breathed 
 his last. Jackson, who was prepared for the event, had 
 already made up his mind how to proceed. The men 
 murmured, and proposed securing Jackson as a prisoner, 
 and offering the command to Newton. They went below 
 and made the proposal to him ; but he refused, observing 
 that until it was proved by the laws of the land that Jack- 
 son had murdered their shipmate, he was not guilty, and . 
 therefore they had no right to dispossess him of his com- 
 mand ; and until their evidence could be taken by some of 
 I 4
 
 120 NEwroN FonsTER : 
 
 the authorities he must remain ; further pointing out to 
 them, that as he could be seized immediately upon his ar- 
 rival at j^n English port, or falling in with a man-of-war 
 during their passage, the ends of justice would be equally 
 answered, as if they committed themselves by taking the 
 law into their own hands. 
 
 The men, although not satisfied, acquiesced, and returned 
 to their duty on deck. Jackson's conduct towards them 
 was now quite altered ; he not only treated them with le- 
 nity, but supplied them with extra liquor and other indul- 
 gences, which, as captain, he could command. Newton, 
 however, he still detained under an arrest, watching him 
 most carefully each time that he was necessitated to come 
 on deck. The fact was, Jackson, aware that his life would 
 be forfeited to the laws of his country, had resolved to 
 wreck the brig, upon one of the reefs to the northward, 
 then take to his boats, and escape to one of the French is- 
 lands. At this instigation, the body of the man had been 
 thrown overboard by some of the crew, when they were in 
 a state of half intoxication. 
 
 Newton, who had been below four days, had retired as 
 usual to his hammock, when a sudden shock, accompanied 
 by the fall of the masts by the board, woke him from a 
 sound sleep to all the horrors of shipwreck. The water 
 pouring rapidly through the sides of the vessel, proved to 
 him that there was no chance of escape except by the 
 boats. The shriek, so awful when raised in the gloom of 
 night by seamen anticipating immediate death, the hurried 
 footsteps above him, the confusion of many voices, with 
 the heavy blows from the waves against the side of the 
 vessel, told him that danger was imminent, even if escape 
 were possible. He drew on his trousers, and rushed to 
 the door of his cabin. Merciful Heaven ! Avhat was his 
 surprise, his horror, to find that it was fastened outside. A 
 moment's thought at the malignity of the wretch (for it 
 was indeed Jackson, who, during the night, had taken 
 such steps for his destruction) was followed by exertions to 
 escape. Placing his shoulders against his sea-chest, and 
 his feet against the door, his body in nearly a horizontal 
 position, he made a violent effort to break open the door.
 
 OB, THE MEUCUANT SERVICE. 121 
 
 The lock gave way, but the door did not open more than 
 one or two inches, for Jackson to make sure had coiled 
 down against it a hawser which lay a few yards further 
 forward in the steerage, the weight of which the strengtli 
 of no five men could remove. Maddened with the idea of 
 perishing by such treachery, Newton again exerted his 
 frantic efforts again aiul again without success. Between 
 each pause, the voices of the seamen asking for the oars 
 and other articles belonging to the long boat, proved to 
 him that every moment of delay was a nail in his coffin. 
 Again and again were his efforts repeated with almost su- 
 perhuman strength ; but the door remained fixed as ever. 
 At last, it occurred to him that the hawser, which he had 
 previously ascertained by passing his hand through the 
 small aperture which he had made, might only lay against 
 the lower part of the door, and that the upper part might 
 be free. He applied his strength above, and found the 
 door to yield: by repeated attempts he at last succeeded in 
 kicking the upper panels to pieces, and having forced his 
 body through the aperture, Newton rushed on deck with 
 the little strength he had remaining. 
 
 The men — the boat — were not there : he hailed, but 
 they heard him not ; he strained his eyes — but they had 
 disappeared in the gloom of the night ; and Newton, over- 
 come with exhaustion and disappointment, fell down sense- 
 less on the deck. 
 
 CHAPTER XVII. 
 
 Paladore. I liave heard. 
 
 Have read bold fables of enormity. 
 
 Devised to malce men wonder, and confirm 
 
 The al)horrence of our nature ; but Uiis hardness 
 
 Transcends all fiction. Law qf Lomhardy, 
 
 We must now relate what had occurred on deck during 
 the struggle of Newton to escape from his prison. At 
 one o'clock, Jackson had calculated that in an hour, or
 
 122 rJKWTON FORSTKR j 
 
 less, the brig would strike on the reef. He took the helm 
 from the man who was steering, and told him that he might 
 go below. Previous to this, he had been silently occupied 
 in coiling the hawser before tlie door of Newton's cabin, it 
 being his intention to desert the brig, with the seamen, in 
 the long boat, and leave Newton to perish. When the 
 brig dashed upon the reef, which she did with great vio- 
 lence, and the crew hurried upon deck, Jackson, who was 
 calm, immediately proceeded to give the orders which he 
 had already arranged in his mind; and the coolness with 
 which they were given quieted the alarm of the seamen, 
 and allowed them time to recall their scattered senses. 
 This, however, proved unfortunate to Jackson. Had they 
 all hurried in the boat at once, and shoved off, he would in 
 all probability have been {)ermitted to go with them, and 
 Newton in the hurry of their self-preservation, would have 
 been forgotten ; but his cool behaviour restored their confi- 
 dence, and, unhappily for him, gave the seamen time to 
 reflect. Every one was in the boat; for Jackson had 
 quietly prepared and put into her what he considered re- 
 quisite, when one of the men called out for Newton. 
 
 " D — n Newton now ! — save your own lives, my lads. 
 Quick in the boat, all of you." 
 
 "Not without Mr. Newton !" cried the men, unani- 
 mously. " Jump down, Tom Williams, and see where he 
 is ; he must sleep devilish sound." 
 
 The sailor sprung down the companion hatch, where he 
 found tlie hawser coiled against the door, and heard New- 
 ton struggling inside. It was enorr;h. He hastened on 
 deck, and told his companions ; adding, that " it would 
 take half an hour to get the poor fellow out, and that 's 
 longer than we dare stay, for in ten minutes the brig will 
 be to pieces." 
 
 " It is you, you murdering rascal, who did it! " cried 
 the man to Jackson. '^ I tell you what, my lads, if poor 
 Mr. Newton is to die, let this scoundrel keep him company." 
 
 A general shout proclaimed the acquiescence of the other 
 seamen in this act of retributive justice. Jackson, with a 
 loud oath, attempted to spring into the boat, but was re- 
 pelled by the seamen ; again he made the attempt, with
 
 ORj THE SIERCHANT SERVICE. 123 
 
 dreadful imprecations. He was on the plane-sheer of the 
 brig, and about to make :a sprinp;, when a blow from a 
 handspike (the same handspike with wliich he had mur- 
 dered the unfortunate seaman) struck him senseless, and he 
 fell back into the lee-scuppers. The boat then shoved off, 
 and had not gained more than two cables' lengths from the 
 vessel, when Newton effected his escape and ran on deck, 
 as narrated in our last chapter. 
 
 The brig had now beat up so high on the reef, that she 
 remained firmly fixed upon it ; and the tide having ebbed 
 considerably, she was less exposed to the beating of the 
 waves. The sun was also about to make his appearance, 
 and it was broad daylight when Jackson first came to his 
 recollection. His brain "wliirled, his ideas were confused, 
 and he had but a faint reminiscence of what had occurred. 
 He felt that the water washed his feet, and with a sort of 
 instinct he rose, and staggered up to windward. In so doing, 
 without perceiving him, he stumbled over the body of 
 Newton, who also was roused up by tlie shock. A few 
 moments passed before either could regain his scattered 
 senses ; and, at the same time, both sitting up on the deck,^ 
 at about a yard distant^ they discovered and recognised 
 each other. 
 
 Newton was the more collected of the two, for Jackson's 
 insensibility had been occasioned by bodily — his, by men- 
 tal concussion. The effect of the blow was still felt by 
 Jackson ; and although recovered from the stupor, a dull, 
 heavy sensation affected his eyesight and confused his 
 ideas. 
 
 The sight of Newton went idi Lo recover Jackson, who 
 started up as if to grapple with the object of his hatred. 
 Newton was on his legs at the same moment, and retreat- 
 ing, seized upon the handspike which lay on the deck, 
 close to where Jackson had been struck down, and ])laced 
 himself in an attitude of defence. Not a word was ex- 
 changed between them. Tliey remained a few minutes in 
 this position, when Jackson, whose brain was affected by 
 the violence of his feelings, dropped down upon the deck 
 in a renewed state of insensibility. 
 
 Newton had now time to look about him and tlie pros'-
 
 124 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 pect was any thing but cheering. It was ahriost low 
 water, and in every direction he perceived reefs of coral 
 rock, and large banks of sand, with deep channels between 
 them, through which the tide flowed rapidly. The reef 
 upon which the brig had been grounded was of sharp 
 coral ; and, in the deeper parts, the trees could be dis- 
 cerned, extending a submarine forest of boughs ; but it 
 was evident that the reef upon which the vessel lay was, 
 as well as most of the others, covered at high water. As u 
 means of escape, a small boat Avas still hanging over the 
 stern, which Newton was able to manage either with her 
 saiis or her oars, as might be required. 
 
 As there was no time to be lost, and the only chance of 
 escape remained with the boat, Newton commenced his 
 arrangements. The mast and sails were found, and the 
 latter bent; — a keg was filled with water, — a compass' 
 taken out of the binnacle, — a few pieces of beef, and some 
 bread collected in -a bag, and thrown in. He also procured 
 some bottles of wine and cider from the cabin : these he 
 stowed away carefully in the little locker, which was fitted 
 under the stern-sheets of the boat. In an hour every 
 thing was ready ; and throwing into her some pieces of 
 spare rope, and a small grapnel to anchor with, there being 
 still sufficient water alongside to float her, Newton gra- 
 dually lowered one tackle and then another, until the boat 
 was safe in the water. He then hauled her up alongside, 
 made her fast by the painter, and stepped her mast. 
 
 All was now ready — but to leave Jackson to be washed 
 away by the returning tide, when the brig would unques- 
 tionably go to pieces ? — Newton could not do it. True, 
 he had sought his life, and still displayed the most invete- 
 rate rancour towards him ; and Newton felt convinced that 
 no future opportunity would occur, that his enemy would 
 not profit by, to insure his destruction. Yet to leave him 
 — a murderer ! — with all his sins upon his soul, to be 
 launched so unprepared into the presence of an oiFended 
 Creator ! — it was impossible — it was contrary to his 
 nature, and to the religion which he professed. How could 
 he liope for the Divine assistance in his perilous undertaking.
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 125 
 
 when he embarked on it, regardless of the precept to for- 
 give his enemy? 
 
 Newton ascended to that part of the deck where Jackson 
 laid, and roused him. Jackson awoke, as from a deep 
 sleep, and then stared at Newton, who, as a precaution held 
 the handspike in his hand. 
 
 *' Mr. Jackson," said Newton, " I have roused you to 
 let you know that the boat is now ready, and that 1 am 
 going to shove off.'' 
 
 Jackson, who recollected the scene of the previous 
 night, and perceived Newton standing over him with the 
 handspike, appeared wholly unnerved. In point of mus- 
 cidar power, Newton was his superior, independent of the 
 weapon in his possession. 
 
 " Not without me ! — not without me ! " cried Jackson, 
 raising himself upon his knees. " For mercy's sake, Mr. 
 Newton, do not leave me to this horrid death ! " 
 
 " You would have left me to one even more dreadful," 
 replied Newton. 
 
 " I beg your pardon! — Pardon me, Mr, Newton, I 
 was drunk at the time — indeed I was. I don't know 
 what I do when I 'm in liquor. — Don't leave me! " — 
 I '11 obey your orders, and do any thing you vvish ! — 1 1 
 wait upon you as your servant ! — I will indeed, I\Ir. 
 Newton ! " 
 
 " I neither ask that you will obey my orders, nor Avait 
 upon me,'' replied Newton. " All T request is, that you 
 will lay aside your wanton animosity, and exert yourself to 
 save your life. For what you have already attempted 
 against me, may God forgive you, as I do ! For what you 
 may iiereafter attempt, you will find me prepared. Now 
 follow into the boat. 
 
 "W^ithout further exchange of words Newton, followed 
 by Jackson, went into the boat, ai'.d shoved off. The 
 weather was moderate and the wind light. There were 
 two islets which Newton had marked, which apparently 
 were not covered at high water, one about ten miles distant 
 in the supposed direction of the land, for Newton had 
 shrewdly guessed the locality of the reef; and the other 
 about two miles from the first, further out, with tree*
 
 126 
 
 NEWTON FOUSTER 
 
 growing to the water's edge. To this latter, Newton pro- 
 posed pulling, and waiting there until the next morning. 
 'W^lien they were both in the boat, Newton finding that the 
 wind was contrary, unshipped the mast, and takmg the 
 foremost oar, that Jackson might not sit behind him, de- 
 sired him to take the other. The tide, which was now 
 flood, and swept out to the southward, obliged them to 
 pull at an angle to reach their intended destination. It 
 was not until sunset that, with great exertion, they fetched 
 the island nearest to the land, not the one that was covered 
 with trees, as they had intended. As soon as the boat was 
 secured, exhausted with fatigue, they both threw them- 
 selves down on the sand, where they remained for some 
 time. Having recovered a little, Newton i)rocured from 
 the boat some of the supplies which they required, and 
 after satisfying their hunger in silence, they both lay down 
 to repose. Newton, who was still afraid of Jackson's dia- 
 bolical enmity, which his silence implied to be again at 
 work, closed his eyes, and pretended for some time to be 
 asleep. As soon as it was dark, he rose, and first listening 
 to the breathing of his comrade, who appeared to be in a 
 sound slumber, he walked away from him about one hun- 
 dred yards, so that it would be difficult to find him ; he 
 placed the handspike under his head for a pillow, and worn 
 out with mental and bodily fatigue, was soon in a state of 
 oblivion. 
 
 His sleep, although profound for three or four hours 
 was subsequently restless. The mind, when agitated, 
 watches for the body, and wakes it at the time when it 
 should be on the alert. Newton woke up : it was not yet 
 daylight, and all v.'as hushed. He turned round, intending 
 to get up immediately ; yet, yielding to the imjiulse ot 
 wearied nature, he again slumbered. Once he thought 
 that he heard a footstep, roused himself, and listened; but 
 all v/as quiet and still, except the light wave rippling on 
 the sand. Again he was roused by a sort of grating noise ; 
 he listened, and all was quiet. A third time he was roused 
 by a sound like the flapping of a sail : he listened — he 
 was sure of it, and he sprung upon his feet. It was dawn 
 X)f day, and as he turned his eyes towards the beach, he
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 127 
 
 perceived to his horror that the boat was indeed under sail, 
 Jackson, who was in it, then just hauling aft the main- 
 sheet, and steering away from the island. Newton rail to 
 the beach, plunged into the sea, and attempted to regain 
 the boat; but he was soon out of his depth, and tlie boat 
 running away fast through the water. He shouted to 
 Jackson, as a last attempt. The scoundrel waved his hand 
 in ironical adieu, and continued his course. 
 
 " Treaclierous villain ! " mentally exclaimed Newton, as 
 his eyes followed the boat. " Was it for this that I pre- 
 served your life in return for your attempts on mine .'' 
 Here then must I die of starvation! — God's will be 
 done ! " exclaimed he aloud, as he sat down on the beach, 
 and covered his face with his hands. 
 
 CHArTEll XVIII. 
 
 For now I stand as one upon a rock, 
 
 Environed with a wilderness of sea, 
 
 Wlio marks the waxing tide grow wave by wave. 
 
 Expecting ever when some envious surge 
 
 Will iu his briiiish bowels swallow him. Shakspeare. 
 
 The tide was on the ebb when Newton was left in this 
 desolate situation. After some minutes passed in bitterness 
 of spirit, his natural courage returned ; and although the 
 chance of preservation was next to hopeless, Newton rose 
 up, resolved that he would use his best efforts, and trust 
 to Providence for their success. His first idea was to 
 examine the beach, and see if Jackson had left him any 
 portion of the provisions which he had put into the boat , 
 but there was nothing. He then walked along the beacli, 
 following the receding tide, with the hope of collecting any 
 shell-fish which might be left upon the sands ; but here 
 again he was disappointed. It was evident, therefore, that 
 to stay on this islet was to starve ; his only chance ap- 
 peared to remain in his capability of reaching the islet next 
 to it, which, as we have before mentioned, was covered 
 with trees. There, at least, he might find some means of
 
 128 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 sustenance, and be able with the wood to make a raft, if 
 nothing better should turn up in his favour. 
 
 The tide swept down towards the islet, but it ran so 
 strong that there was no chance of his being carried past it ; 
 he therefore determined to wait for an hour or two, until 
 the strength of the current was diminished, and then make 
 the attempt. This interval was passed in strengthening 
 his mind against the horror of the almost positive death 
 which stared him in the face. 
 
 It was about an hour before low water that Newton 
 walked into the sea, and commending himself to Providence, 
 struck out for the islet, keeping his course well to wind- 
 ward, to allow for the tide sweeping him down. To use a 
 nautical phrase, he '' held his own '' extremely well, until 
 he reached the centre of the channel, where the water ran 
 with great velocity, and bore him down rapidly with the 
 stream. Newton struggled hard ; for he was aware that 
 the strength of the current once passed, his labour would 
 be comparatively easy ; and so it proved : as he neared the 
 shore of the islet, he made good way ; but he had been 
 carried down so far when in the centre of the stream, that 
 it became a nice point, even to the calculation of hope, 
 whether he would fetch the extreme point of the islet. 
 Newton redoubled his exertions, when, within thirty yards 
 of the shore an eddy assisted him, and he made sure of 
 success ; but when within ten yards, a counter current 
 again caught him, and swept him down. He was now 
 abreast of the very extreme point of the islet ; a bush that 
 hung 3ver the water was his only hope ; with three or four 
 desperate strokes he exhausted his remaining strength, at 
 the same time that he seized hold of a small bough. It 
 was decayed — snapped asunder, and Newton was whirled 
 away by the current into the broad ocean. 
 
 How constantly do we find people running into real 
 danger to avoid imaginary evil ! A mother will not permit 
 her child to go to sea, lest it should be drowned, and a few 
 days afterwards it is kicked to death by a horse. Had the 
 child been permitted to go afloat, he might have lived and 
 run through the iisual term of existence. Wherever we 
 are, or wherever we may go, there is death awaiting us in
 
 OR, TIIK MERCHANT SICRVICK. 129 
 
 Bome shape or another, sooner or later ; and there is so 
 much danger in walking through the streets of London as 
 in ploughing the foaming ocean. Every tile over our heads 
 contains a death within it, as certain if it were to fall upon 
 us, as that occasioned by the angry surge, which swallows 
 us up in its wrath. I believe, after all, that as many 
 sailors in proportion, run out their allotted span as the rest 
 of the world that are engaged in other apparently less dan- 
 gerous professions ; although it must be acknowledged that 
 dccasionally we do become food for fishes. " There is a 
 tide in the affairs of men," says Shakspeare ; hut certainly, 
 of all the tides that ever interfered in a man's prospects, 
 that which swept away Newton Forster appeared to be the 
 least likely to " lead to fortune." Such however was the 
 case. Had Newton gained the islet which he coveted, he 
 would have perished miserably ; whereas it will soon ap- 
 pear, that although his sufferings are not yet ended, his 
 being carried away w^as the most fortunate circumstance 
 which could have occurred, and proved the means of his 
 idtimate preservation. 
 
 Newton had resigned himself to his fate. He ceased from 
 further exertion, except such as was necessary to keep him 
 above water a little longer. Throwing himself on his back, 
 he appealed to Heaven for pardon, as he floated away with 
 the stream. That Newton had as few errors and follies to 
 answer for as most people, is most certain ; yet even the 
 most perfect soon run up a long account. During our live^ 
 our sins are forgotten, as is the time at which they were 
 committed ; but when death is certain, or appears to be so, 
 it is then that the memory becomes most horribly perfect, 
 and each item of our monstrous bill requires but a few 
 seconds to be read, and to be acknowledge*.! as too correct. 
 This is the horror of death ; this it is which makes the 
 body struggle to retain the soul, already pluming herself 
 and rustling her wings, impatient for her flight. This it 
 is which constitutes the pang of separation, as the enfeebled 
 body gradually relaxes its hold, and — all is over, at least 
 on this side of the grave. 
 
 Newton's strength was exhausted; his eyes were fixed 
 on the clear blue sky, as if to bid it farewell ; and, he 
 
 K
 
 1 HO KEWXON FORSTER ; 
 
 signed to his fate, he was about to give over the last few 
 painful elibrts, which he was aware could only prolong, 
 not save his life, when he received a blow on his shoulder 
 under the water. Imagining that it proceeded from the 
 taiKof a shark, or of some other of the ravenous monsters 
 of the deep, which abound among these islands, and that the 
 next moment his body would be severed in half, he ut- 
 tered a faint cry at the accumulated horror of his death ; 
 but the next moment his legs were swung round by the 
 current, and he perceived, to his astonishment, that he was 
 aground upon one of the sand-banks which abounded on 
 the reef, and over which the tide was running with the 
 velocity of a sluice. He floundered, then rose, and found 
 himself in about one foot of water. The ebb-tide was 
 nearly finished, and this was one of the banks which never 
 showed itself above water, except during the full and' 
 change of the moon. It was now about nine o'clock in the 
 morning, and the sun shone with great power. Newton, 
 faint from want of sustenance, hardly knew whether to 
 consider this temporary respite as an advantage. He knew 
 that the tide would soon flow again, and felt that his 
 strength was too much spent to enable him to swim back to 
 the islet which he had Inissed when he had attempted to 
 reach it, and which was more than two miles from the 
 bank upon which he then stood. What chance had he then 
 but to be swept away by the return of the tide ? He al- 
 most regretted that it had not been a shark instead of the 
 sand-bank Vvhich had struck him ; he would then have 
 been spared a few hours of protracted misery. 
 
 As Newton had foreseen, the ebb-tide was soon over ; a 
 short pause of " slack water " ensued, and there was an 
 evident and rapid increase of the water around him; the 
 wind too freshened, and the surface of the ocean was in 
 strong l-ipples. As the water deepened, so did the waves 
 increase in size : every Inoment added to his despair. He 
 had now remained about four hours on the bank ! the 
 water had risen to underneath his arms, the waves nearly 
 lifted him off his feet, and it was with difficulty that he 
 could retain his position. Hope deserted him, and his 
 senses became confused. He thought that he saw grevu
 
 ORj Till': MEKCUANT SKUVICK. 131 
 
 fields, ami cities, and inhabitants. His reason was depart- 
 ing : he saw his father coming clown to him with the tide 
 and called to him for help, when the actual sight, of some- 
 thing recalled him from his temporary aberration. There 
 was a dark object upon the water, evidently approaching. 
 His respiration was almost suspended as he watched its 
 coming. At last he distinguished that it must cither be a 
 whale asleep, or a boat bottom up. Fortunately for New- 
 ton, it proved to be the latter. At last it was brought 
 down by the tide to within a few yards of him, and ap- 
 peared to bo checked. Newton dashed out towards the 
 boat, and in a minute was safely astride upon it. As soon 
 as he had recovered a little from his agitation, he perceived 
 that it was the very boat belonging to the brig, in which 
 Jackson had so treacherously deserted and left him on the 
 island ! 
 
 At three o'clock it was high Avater, and at five the water 
 had again retreated, so that Newton 'could quit his station 
 on the bottom of the boat, and walk round her. He then 
 righted, and discovered that the mast had been carried away 
 close to the step, but, with the sail, still remained fast to 
 the boat by the main sheet, which had jammed on the be- 
 laying pin, so that it still was serviceable. Every thing 
 else had been lost out of the boat, except the grapnel, which 
 had been bent, and v/hich hanging down in the water, from 
 the boat being capsized, had brought it up when it was 
 floated on the sand-bank. Newton, who had neither eaten 
 nor drank since the night before, was again in despair, tor- 
 mented as he was by insufFeral)le thirst, when he observed 
 that the locker under the stern- sheets was closed. Ke 
 hastened to pull it open, and found that the bottles of wine 
 and cider, which he had deposited there, were remaining. 
 A bottle of the latter was soon poured down his throat, and 
 Newton felt as if restored to his former vigour. 
 
 At seven o'clock in the evening the boat was nearly high 
 and dry. Newton baled her out, and fixing the grapnel 
 firmly in the sand, lay down to sleep in the stern-sheets, 
 covered over with the sail. His sleep was so sound, that 
 he did not wake until six o'clock the next morning, wiieti 
 the boat was again aground. He refreshed himself wit]: 
 K 2
 
 132 NEWTON FORSTKll^ ETC. 
 
 some wine, ami meditated upon liis prospect. Thanking 
 Heaven for a renewed chance of escape, and lamenting over 
 the fate of the unprepared Jackson, who had evidently been 
 upset, from the main-sheet having been jammed, Newton 
 resolved to make for one of the English isles, which he 
 knew to be about two hundred miles distant. 
 
 The oars had been lost, but the rudder of the boat was 
 fortunately made fast by a pennant. In the afternoon he 
 drew up his grapnel, and made sail in the direction, as well 
 as he could judge from the position of the sun, to> the En- 
 glish isles. As th^ night closed in, he watched the stars, 
 and steered his course by them. 
 
 The next day came, and, although the boat sailed well, 
 and went fast before a free wind, no land was in sight. 
 Newton had again recourse to the cider and the wine. 
 
 The second night he could hardly keep his eyes open ; 
 yet, wearied as he was, he still continued his course, and 
 never quitted his helm. The day again dawned, and New- 
 ton 's strength was gone, from constant watching ; still he 
 bore up against it, until the sun had set. 
 
 No land was yet to be seen, and sleep overpowered him. 
 He took a hitch of the main-sheet round his tinger, that, 
 should the breeze freshen he might be roused, in case he 
 should go to sleep ; and having taken this precaution, in a 
 few minutes the boat icas steering herself ! 
 
 awn OF THE Fiijsr volv.mk.
 
 VOLUME THE SECOOT). 
 
 CHAPTER 1. 
 
 But man, proud man, 
 Dress'd in a little brief authority, 
 Most ignorant of wliat he 's most assured, 
 His glassy essence, like an angry ape. 
 Plays such fantastic tricks before high Heaven. 
 
 The reef upon which the brig had been wrecfced was one 
 of those extending along the soutliward of the Virgin 
 Isles. Newton had intended to steer well to the eastward, 
 with the view of reaching one of the northernmost En- 
 glish colonies ; but not having a compass, he naturally Avas 
 not very equal in his course. The fact was, that he steered 
 well to the southward of it, and after he fell asleep, the 
 boat ran away still farther off her course, for she was on 
 the larboard tack, and having no weight in her except 
 Newton, who was aft in the stern-sheets, she did not feel 
 inclined to keep her wind. Newton's sleep was so pro- 
 found, tliat neither the pulling of the main-sheet, Avhich he 
 held with a roimd turn round his hand, nor the dancing of 
 the boat, Avhich during the night had run fast before an 
 increasing breeze, roused him from his lethargy. On sailed 
 the boat, left to the steerage of Providence ; on slept New- 
 ton, as if putting firm reliance on the same. It was not 
 until the break of day that his repose was very abruptly 
 broken by a shock, which threw him from the stern-sheets 
 of the boat, right over the aftermost thwart. Newton re- 
 covered his legs and his senses, and found himself alongside 
 of a vessel. He had run stem on to a small schooner, which 
 K 3
 
 134 NKwior; i'oi!sti:r; 
 
 was lying at anchor. As tlie boat was drifting fast by, 
 Newton made a spring, and gained tlie deck of the vessel. 
 
 "Ah! mon Dieu ! — les Anglois — les Anglois nous 
 sommes prisonniers ! " cried out the only man on deck, 
 jiimping on his feet, and making a precipitate dive below. 
 
 The vessel, of which Newton liad thus taken possession, 
 was one employed in carrying the sugars from the plant- 
 ations round to Basseterre, the port of Guadaloupe, there 
 to be shipped for Europe (Newton's boat having run away 
 so far to the southward, as to make this island.) She was 
 lying at anchor off the mouth of a small river, waiting for 
 a cargo. 
 
 It happened that the crew of the schooner, who were all 
 slaves, were exactly in the same situation as Newton, v/lien 
 their vessels came in contact; viz., fast asleep. The shock 
 had wakened them j but they were all below, except the 
 one who had kept such a remarkably good watch. 
 
 Exhausted as Newton was, he could not but smile at his 
 uninterrupted jiossession of the vessel's decks. Anxious ta 
 have communication with the people on board, he sat down, 
 awaiting their coming up from below. In a minute or two, 
 a black head was seen to rise slowly and fearfully out of 
 the fore-scuttle, then it disappeared. Another rose up, and 
 went down again as before ; and thus it went on until 
 Newton reckoned ten different faces. Having individually 
 ascertained that there was bat one man, and that one not 
 provided with any weapons, the negroes assumed a degree 
 of courage. The first head that had made its appearance, 
 the woolly hair. of which was of a grizzly gray from age 
 was again popped up the fore-scuttle, with an interrogatory 
 to Newton in French, who he was, and what he wanted ? 
 Newton, who did not understand a word of the language, 
 shook his head, and opening his hands and extending his 
 arms, to show that he had no means of defence, he beck- 
 oned to them to come up. The man's head had a;^ain 
 disappeared, and, after a little demur, nine or ten negroes 
 crawled up out of the fore-scuttle, one after another^ each 
 with some weapon or another by way of security. They 
 remained on the forecastle of the vessel until the last was 
 up, and then at a nod given by their grizzle-headed leader
 
 en, THE MEKCIiANT SERVICE. 136 
 
 they advanced aft, in a body, towards Newton. Newton 
 rose and pointed to the boat, which had now drifted about 
 a quarter of a mile astern. He then made signs, to give 
 them to understand that he had been ivrecked. 
 
 '^ Appareminent c'est un pauvre miserable, qui a fait 
 ixaufrage," observed the okl negro, who appeared to have 
 the charge of the vessel ; " Guslave Adolphe, tu paries 
 bien I'Anglois ; demandez-lui les nouvelles," continued the 
 old man, folding his arms across, and looking very big in- 
 deed, as lie reclined against the mainmast of the vessel. 
 
 Gustave Adolphe stood forward from the rest of the 
 negroes. He was a short, fat, shiny-faced fellow, with his 
 hair platted into about fifty little tails. He first bowed to 
 his old commander, then placing his arms akimbo, walked 
 up to Newton, and looking him full in the face, commenced 
 his duty of interpreter ; as follows : — 
 
 " I say — God dam — " 
 
 Newton smiled. 
 
 " Oui, monsieur, c'est un Anglois." 
 
 " Gontinuez, Gustave Adolphe," replied the old negro 
 with a majestic air. 
 
 Gustave Adolphe, with another bow, resumed : 
 
 " I say — where com ? " 
 
 '' Barbadoes," replied Newton. 
 
 " Monsieur, il vient de Barbadoes." 
 
 " Continuez, Gustave Adolphe," replied his superior 
 with a wave of his hand. 
 
 " I say — where go ? " 
 
 " Where go.''" replied Newton, ''go to the bottom." 
 
 " IMonsieur — il alloit au port de Bo — tom." 
 
 " Bo — torn," repeated the old negro. " Ou diable 
 est ca.''" 
 
 Here a general consultation was held, by which it ap 
 peared that such a port had never been heard of in the 
 West Indies. 
 
 " Gustave Adolphe, demandez-lui si c'est un port 
 Anglois." 
 
 " I say ■ — Bo — tom — English port .'' " 
 
 " No," replied Newton, amused with the mistake 5 " I 
 should rather call it neutral." 
 K 4
 
 1S6 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 " C'est un port neutral, monsieur." 
 
 " Gustave Adolphe, deniandez-ku de quelle ile." 
 
 " I say, what isle — Bo — torn ?" 
 
 Newton, who was faint with hunger and thirst, was not 
 inclined at the moment to continue the conversation, which 
 otherwise would have been a source of amusement. He^ 
 replied by making sigii* that he wisfied to eat and drii^. 
 
 " Monsieur," said Gustave Adolphe to tlie old negro, *' le 
 prisonnier refuse de fair reponse, et demande u manger et 
 a boire." 
 
 " Va I'en chercher, Gustave Adolphe," replied the old 
 man. " AUons, messieurs," continued he, addressing the 
 other negroes. " II faut lever I'ancre de suite, et ainener 
 notre prisonnier aux autorites ; Charles Philippe, va cher- 
 cher mon porte-voix." 
 
 The negro captain walked up and down the deck of t'u" 
 schooner, a vessel about thirty feet long, until Charles 
 Philippe made his appearance with the speaking-trumpet. 
 He then proceeded to get the vessel under weigh, with more 
 noise and fuss than is to' be heard when the proudest three- 
 decker in the English navy expands her lofty canvass t>> 
 the gale. 
 
 , Gustave Adolphe, in obedience to the commands he had 
 received, brought up to Newton a bunch of bananas, a 
 large piece of salt fish, and a cakbash of water. The 
 latter was immediately applied to his Hps, and never re- 
 moved while a drop remained, nnich to the astonishment of 
 the negro, who again sported his English. 
 
 " I say — very good — ah more .''" 
 
 " If you please," replied Newton. 
 
 " Monsieur," said Gustave Adolphe to his coitimander, 
 ■' le prisonnier a soif, et demande encore de I'eau." 
 
 " Va Ten chercher done," replied the old negro, with a 
 wave of his speaking-trumpet. " Charles Philippe, atten- 
 tion a la barre*, sans vcnir au vent, s'il vous plait. Mat« 
 telotsf du gaiilard d'avant," continued he, roaring through 
 his speaking-trumpet ; "^ bordez le grand foe." 
 
 In the space of two hours, the schooner was brought to 
 
 * INUnd your weather-helm. 
 
 •i Forecastle-men, haul aft the jib-sheet.
 
 OR, THE MlcnClIANT SRRVICK. 137 
 
 »n anchor, Avith as much noise and importance as slie liacl 
 been got under Aveigh. A hoat, capable of holding three 
 people, one rower and two sitters, was shoved off the vessel's 
 deck, and the negro captain, having first descended to his 
 cabiivfor a few minutes, returned on deck dressed in the 
 extremity of their fashion, and ordered the boat to be 
 manned. • 
 
 Gustave Adolphe accordingly manned the boat with his 
 own person, and the negro captain politely waved his liaiid 
 for Newton to enter, and then, following himself, Gustave 
 Adolphe rowed to a landing-place, about twenty yards from 
 the schooner. 
 
 " Gustave Adolphe, suivez en arriere, et gardez bien 
 que le prisonnier n'echappe pas ;" so saying, monsieur le 
 capitaine led the way to a large white house and buildings, 
 about two hundred yards from the river's banks. On their 
 arrival, Newton was surrounded by twenty or thirty slaves 
 of both sexes, wfio chattered and jabbered a thousand 
 questions concerning him to the negro captain and Gustave 
 Adolphe, neither of whom condescended to reply. 
 
 " Monsieur de Fontanges — ou est-il ? " inquire^ the old 
 negro. 
 
 " Monsieur dort," replied a little female voice. • 
 
 The captain was taken aback at this imfortunate cir 
 cumstance ; for no one dared to wake their master. 
 
 " Et madame ? '* inquired he. 
 
 " Madame est dans sa chambre.' 
 
 There again he Avas floored — he could not venture 
 ihere ; so he conducted Newton, who was not very sorry to 
 escape from the burning rays of the sun, to his OAvn ha- 
 bitation, Avhure an old negress, his Avife. soon obtained 
 from the negro that information relative to the capture of 
 NcAvton, Avhich the bevy of slaA'es in the yard had at- 
 tempted in vain : but Avives haA'e Avinning Avays Avith 
 them !
 
 138 NEWTON FOKSTBR 
 
 CHAPTER II, 
 
 What elegance and grandeur wide expand. 
 The jiride of Turkey and of Persia land ' 
 Soft quilts on quilts, on carpets carpets spread. 
 And couches stretch'd around in seemly band. 
 And endless pillows rise to prop the head. 
 ***** 
 Here languid Beauty kept her pale-faced court. 
 
 Tub female slaves, -who could not obtain the history of 
 Newton, injmediately repaired to the chamber of their 
 mistress, knowing that if they could succeed in raising her 
 curiosity, they would at the same time gratify their own. 
 Madame de Fontanges was, as they asserted, in her 
 chamber, or, what may now be more correctly styled, her 
 boudoir. It was a room about fourteen feet square, the 
 sides of which were covered with a beautiful paper, repre- 
 senting portions of the history of Paul and Virginia ; the 
 floor was covered with fine matting, with here and there 
 a small Persian carpet above it. Small marble tables were 
 decorated with a variety of ornaments and French per- 
 fumes, or vases filled with the splendid flowers of a tro- 
 pical clime. There was a large window at each end of 
 the room, cut down to the ground, in the French fashion, 
 and outside of both was a little balcony, the trellice-work 
 covered with passion-flower and clematis. The doors and 
 other compartments of the room were not papered, but 
 had French mirrors let into the panelling. On a low 
 ortoman, of elegant workmanship, covered with a damask 
 French silk, reposed Madame de Fontanges, attended by 
 three or ibur young female slaves, of different complex- 
 ions, but none of pure African blood. Others were seated 
 upon the different Persian carpets about the room, in 
 listless idleness or strewing the petals of the orange- 
 flower, to perfume the apartment with its odour. The 
 only negro was a little boy, about six years of age, dressed 
 in a fantastic costume, who sat in a corner, apparently in 
 a very sulky humour. 
 
 Madame de Fontanges was a creole, that is, born in the 
 Went Indies, of French parents. She had been sent home
 
 OR, Till'; JIKKOHANi' SKKVICI':. 1 .'JS> 
 
 to France for Iier education, and had returned at the age 
 of fourteen to Guadaloupe, where she soon after married 
 Monsieur de Fontanges, an officer of rank, and brotlier to 
 the governor of the island. Her form was diminutive, but 
 most perfect ; lier hand and arm models for the statuary ; 
 while her feet were so small as almost to excite risibility 
 when you observed them. Her futures were regular, and 
 when raised I'rom their usual listlessness, full of expres- 
 sion. Large hazel eyes, beautifully pencilled eyebrows, 
 with long fringed eyelashes, dark and luxuriant hair, 
 Grecian nose, small mouth, with thin coral lips, were set 
 off by a complexion which even the climate could not de- 
 stroy, although it softened it into extreme delicacy. 
 
 Such was the person of Madame de Fontanges, now 
 about eighteen years old, and one of the most beautiful 
 specimens of the French Creoles which could be imagined. 
 Her perfect little figure needed no support ; she was 
 simply attired in a muslin robe de chambre, as she reposed 
 upon the ottoman, waiting with all the impatience of her 
 caste, for the setting in of the sea-breeze, which would 
 give some relief from the oppressive heat of the climate. 
 
 " Eventez ! Nina, eventez ! " cried she to one of her 
 attendants, who was standing at the head of the sofa, v.-itli 
 a large feather fan. 
 
 " Oui, madame," replied the girl, stirring up the lior- 
 mant atmosphere. 
 
 " Eventez ! Caroline, eventez mes mains, vite." 
 
 " Oui, madame," replied the second, working away 
 with another fan. 
 
 " Eventez ! eventez mes pieds, Mimi." 
 
 " Oui, madame," replied the third, fanning in the di- 
 rection pointed out. 
 
 " Louise," said Madame de Fontanges, languidly, after 
 a short pause, " apporte-moi de I'eau sucree." 
 
 " Oui, madame," replied another, rising, in obedience 
 to the order. 
 
 " Non, non ! Je n'en veux pas — mais j'ai soif horrible. 
 Manchette, va chercher de I'eau cerise." 
 
 " Oui, madame,'' replied Manchette, rising from her 
 seat. But she had not quitted the room before Madame 
 de Fontanc!;cs had chanc^ed her mind.
 
 140 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 " Attcndez, Manchette. Ce ii'est pas (;i\. Je vou<lrois 
 lie linionade. Charlottt-^ va Ten chercher." 
 
 " Oui, inadame," said Charlolte, leaving the room to 
 execute the order. 
 
 " Ah ! nion Dieu ! qu'il fait line chaleur t'poiivantable.' 
 
 " Mimi^ que tu es paresseuse ? Eventez ! vite, vite." 
 
 " Ou est Monsieur ? " 
 
 " Monsieur dort," 
 
 " Ah ! qu'il est neureux. Et Cupidon — ou est-il ? " 
 
 "■' II est ici au coin, madame. II boude." 
 
 " Qu'est-ce qu'il a fait done ? " 
 
 " Ah, madame .' II a vole le dindon roti, et I'a tout 
 mange'." 
 
 " Ah, le petit polisson ! Venez ici, Cupidon." 
 
 Cupidon, the little negro-boy, we have before mentioned, 
 as sitting in the corner of the room, walked up with a 
 very deliberate pace to the side of the ottoman, his two 
 thick lips sticking out about six inches in advance of the 
 remainder of his person. 
 
 " Cupidon," said the lady, turning a little on one side 
 to speak to him, " tu as mange, le dindon entier. Tu as 
 mal fait, mon ami. Tu seras malade. Comprends-tu, 
 Cujjidon, c'est unc sottiise que tu as fait?" 
 
 Cupidon made no reply ; his liead was hung down a 
 little lower, and his lips extended a little farther out. 
 
 " Sache que tu es un petit voleur ! " continued his 
 mistress. 
 
 Cupidon did not condescend to answer. 
 
 " Allez, monsieur ; ne m'approchez pas." 
 
 Cupidon turned short round without reply, and walked 
 back to his corner with the same deliberate pace as before, 
 when he came out of it. 
 
 Charlotte now returned Avith the lemonade for which she 
 had been despatched, and informed her mistress as she 
 presented it, that Nicholas, who had charge of the schooner, 
 had returned with an European prisoner ; but that neither 
 lie nor Gustave would give her any further information, 
 although she had requested it in the name of her mistress. 
 This was quite an event, and gave a fillip to the inertness 
 of Madame de Fontanges, whose curiosity was excited.
 
 OK, TIIK JIEIICIIANT SlillVIClJ. 141 
 
 * A-t'-il bonne mine, Charlotte ? " 
 
 " Oui, madanie, c'est un bel hommc " 
 
 " Et ou est-il ? " 
 
 " Avec Nicholas." 
 
 " Et ^Monsieur ? " 
 
 " Monsieur dort." 
 
 '' II faut I'e'veiller. Faites bieii mes complimenis au 
 Monsieur de Fontanges, et dites-lui que je uie trouve fort 
 malado. et que je voudrois lui i)arler. Entends-tu, Celeste; 
 je parlo a toi." 
 
 " Oui,madame," rephed the j^irl, throwing some orange 
 flowers off her lap, and rising to deliver her message. 
 
 M. de Fontanges, who, like most of the Europeans, slept 
 through the hottest portion of the day, rose in compliance 
 with his wife's message, and made his appearance in the 
 boudoir, dressed in a white cotton jacket and trousers. A 
 few polite inquiries after the health of Madame de Fon- 
 tanges, which, as he had conjectured from similar previous 
 occurrences, Avas not worse than usual, were followed by 
 his receiving from her the information of Newton's ar- 
 rival, coupled with an observation, that it would amuse her 
 if the prisoner were interrogated in her presence. 
 
 Newton was sunnnoned to the boudoir, where M. de 
 Fontanges, who spoke very good English, received irom 
 him the history of his disasters, and translated them into 
 French, to gratify the curiosity of his wife. 
 
 " C'est un beau garc^-on/' observed M. de Fontanges. 
 " Mais quoi faire } 11 est prisonnier. II faut I'envoyer a 
 mon frere, le gouverneur." 
 
 " II est joli gar^on," replied Madame de Fontanges. 
 " Donnez-lui des habits, Fontanges ; et no I'envoyez pas 
 on core." 
 
 " Et pourquoi, mon amier" 
 
 " Je voudrois lui apprendre le Francais." 
 
 " Cela ne se pent pas, ma chere ; il est prisonnier." 
 
 " Cela se peut, Monsieur de Fontanges," replied the lady. 
 
 " Je no'se pas," continued the husband. 
 
 " Moi j'ose," replied the lady, decidedly. 
 
 " Je ne voudrois pas," said the gentleman. 
 
 " Moi, je veux," interrupted the lady.
 
 142 , NKWTON FORSTLJl ; 
 
 " Mais il faut etre raisonnable, madame." 
 
 " II faut m'obeir, monsieur." 
 
 " Mais " 
 
 " Pschut !" replied the lady, " c'est une affaire decidee. 
 Monsieur le gouverneur ne parle pas I'Anglois. C'est 
 absolumeitt nccessaire que le jeune homme a])prenne 
 notre langue ; et c'est mon plaisir de I'enseigner. Au 
 revoir. Monsieur de Fontanges. Charlotte, va chercher des 
 habits." 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 'T is pleasing to be schooled in a strange tongue 
 
 By feiniiJe lips and eyes ; that is, I mean 
 
 When bolh the tericner and the taught are young, 
 
 As was the case, at least, whore I had been. 
 
 They smile so when one's right, and when one's wrong 
 
 They smile still more. 
 
 Byron. 
 
 M. DE FoNTANGESj avvare of the impetuosity and caprice 
 of his wife (at the same time that he acknowledged her 
 many redeeming good qualities), did not further attempt 
 to thwart her inclinations. His great objection to her plan 
 was, the impio^jriety of retaining a prisoner, whom he was 
 bound to give up to the proper authorities. He made a 
 virtue of necessity, and having acquainted Newton with the 
 wish of Madame de Fontanges, requested his parole of 
 honour that he would not attempt to escape, if he was not 
 delivered up to the authorities, and remain some time at 
 Lieu Desire. Newton, who had no wish to be acquainted 
 with a French cachot, sooner than it was absolutely neces- 
 sary, gave the promise required by M. de Fontanges, assur- 
 ing him that ingratitude was not a part of his character. 
 M. de Fontanges then requested that Newton would accept 
 of a portion of his wai-drobe, which he would direct to be 
 sent to the room that would be prepared for him. This 
 affair being arranged, Newton made his bow to the lady, 
 and in company with M. de Fontanges, retired from the 
 boudoir
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 143 
 
 It may be suspected by the reader^ that Matluino de 
 Fontaiiges was one of those ladies who cared a j^reat deal 
 about having their own way, and very little for her hus- 
 band. As to the first part of the accusation, I can only 
 observe, that I never yet had the fortune to fall in with 
 any lady who did not try all she could to have her own 
 way, nor do I conceive it to be a crime. As to tlic second, 
 if the reader has formed that supposition, he is much mis- 
 taken. ]Madame de Fontanges was very much attached to 
 her husband, and the attachment as well as the confidence 
 was reciprocal. 
 
 It was not therefore from any feeling of jealousy that 
 M. de Fontanges had combated her resolution ; but, as we 
 have before observed, from a conviction that he was want- 
 ing in his duty, when he did not report the arrival of 
 Newton at the plantation. The wish of Madame de Fon- 
 tanges to detain Newton was, as she declared, a caprice on 
 her part, which had entered her head, to amuse herself by 
 leaching him French. It is true that had not Newton been 
 remarkably prepossessing in his appearance, the idea would 
 in all probability have never been conceived ; but, observing 
 that he was much above the common class, and wishing to 
 relieve the general monotony of her life by any thing which 
 w-ould create amusement, she had formed the idea, which, 
 when combated by her husband, was immediately strengtlr- 
 ened to a resolution. 
 
 Of this Newton received the benefit. An excellent din- 
 ner or rather supper with M. de Fontanges, a comfortable 
 bed in a room supplied with all that convenience or luxury 
 could demand, enabled him to pass a very different night 
 from those which we have latterly described. 
 
 About twelve o'clock the ensuing day, Newton was sum- 
 moned by one of the slave girls to the boudoir of Madame 
 de Fontanges. He found her on the ottoman, as before. 
 Newton, who had been operated upon by a black barber 
 and was dressed in the habiliments of M. de FontangeB, 
 made a much more respectable appearance than upon his 
 former mtroduction. 
 
 ' Bon jour. Monsieur," said the lady. 
 
 Newton bowed respectfully.
 
 144 NEWTON porster; 
 
 " Coniineut vous appelez-vous ? " 
 
 Newton^ not understanding, answered with another bow 
 
 " Le jeun homme n'entends pas madame," observed 
 Mimi. 
 
 " Que c'est ennuyant, monsieur," said ]\Iadame Fon- 
 tanges, pointing to herself; " Moi — Madame de Fontanges 
 — vous," — pointing to him. 
 
 " Newton Forster." 
 
 " Nu-tong Fasta — ah, c'est bon, cela commence," said 
 the lady. " AUons, mes enfans repetez lui tous vous 
 noms." 
 
 " Moi — Mimi," said the girl bearing that name, going 
 Xip to Newton, and pointing to herself. 
 
 '' Mimi," repeated Newton, with a smile and nod of his 
 head. 
 
 "■ Moi — Charlotte." 
 
 " Moi — Louise." 
 
 " Moi — Celeste." 
 
 " Moi — Nina." 
 
 " Moi — Caroline." 
 
 " Moi — Manchette." 
 
 " Et moi — Cupidon," finished the little black boy, 
 running up, and then retreating as fast back into his 
 corner. 
 
 Newton repeated all the names, as the individuals re- 
 spectively introduced themselves to him. Then there was 
 a pause, during which, at the desire of ]\I. de Fontanges, 
 Newton was offered a chair, and sat down. 
 
 " Allons — dites lui les noms de toute la garniture," 
 said j\Iadame de Fontanges to her attendants. 
 
 '' Oui, madamc," said ]\Iimi, going up to Newton, and 
 pomting to the fan in her hand, — " eventail." 
 
 " Eventail, repeated Newton, who began to be amused, 
 and who now i-epeated every French word after them. 
 
 " Flagon," said Charlotte, showing him the eau de Co- 
 logne bottle. 
 
 " Chaise,"' cried Louise, holding up a chair. 
 
 " Livre," said Nina, pointing to a book. 
 
 " Mouchoir," said Caroline, holding up an embroidered 
 handkerchief.
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 1 45 
 
 " Montro " folloivetl up Manchcttc, pointing to her mis- 
 tress's watcl). 
 
 *' Canape/' cried Celeste, pointing to the ottoman. 
 
 " Joli garcon," bawled out Cnpidon, coming up to New- 
 ton, and jiointing to himself. 
 
 This created a laugh, and then the lesson was continued. 
 Every article in the room was successively pointed out to 
 Newton, and he was obliged to repeat the name ; and 
 afterwards tlie articles of their dress were resorted to, much 
 to liis amusement. Then there was a dead stand : — the 
 fact is, that there if no talking with noun substantives only. 
 
 " Ah ! mon Dicu ! il faut envoyer pour Monsieur de 
 Fontanges," cried the lady ; " va le chercher, Louise." 
 
 M. de Fontanges soon made his appearance, Avhen the 
 lady explained to him their dilemma, and requested his 
 assistance. M. de Fontanges laughed, and explained to 
 Newton, and then, by means of his interpretation, connected 
 sentences were made, according to the fancy of the lady, 
 some of which were the cause of great merriment. After 
 an hour, the gentlemen made their bows. 
 
 " I think," observed M. de Fontanges, as they walked 
 away, " that if you really are as anxious to learn our lan- 
 guage as madame is to teach you. you had better come to me 
 every morning for an hour. I shall have great pleasure in 
 giving you any assistance in my power, and I trust that in 
 a very short time that, with a little study of the grammar 
 and dictionaiy, you will be able to hold a conversation with 
 Madame do Fontanges, or even with her dark-complexioned 
 page." 
 
 Newton expressed his acknowledgments, and the next 
 day he received his first lesson ; after which he was sum- 
 moned to support the theory by practice in the boudoir of 
 Madame de Fontanges. It is hardly necessary to observe 
 that each day increased the facility of communication. 
 
 For three months Newton was domiciled with Monsieur 
 and JVIadame Fontanges, both of whom had gradually 
 formed such an attachment to him, that the idea of part- 
 ing never entered their head. He was now a very tole- 
 rable French scholar, and his narratives and adventures Avere 
 to his benefactors a source of amusement, which amply re- 
 
 L
 
 146 
 
 NEWTOX rORSTEH ; 
 
 paid them for the trouble and kindness whicli they had 
 shown to him. Newton was, in fact, a general favourite 
 with every one on the plantation, from the highest to the 
 lowest ; and his presence received the same smile of wel- 
 come at the cottage of the slave, as at the boudoir of Ma- 
 dame de Fontanges. 
 
 Whatever may have been the result of Newton's ob- 
 servations relative to slavery in the English colonies, his 
 feelings of dislike insensibly wore away during his residence 
 at Lieu Desiree ; there he was at least convinced that a slave 
 might be perfectly happy. It must be acknowledged that 
 the French have invariably proved the kindest and most 
 considerate of masters, and the state of bondage is much 
 raitigated in the islands which appertain to that nation. 
 The reason is obvious: in France, there is a bonhommie, a 
 degree of equality established between the different grades 
 of society by universal pohteness. A French servant is 
 familiar Avith his master at the same time that he is re- 
 spectful : and the master, in return, condescends to his 
 inferior without forgetting their relative positions. This 
 runs through society in general, and as no one can well be 
 polite without some goodnature (for politeness, frivolous as 
 it- may appear, is a strong check upon those feelings of sel- 
 fishness, too apt to be indulged in), it leads to a general 
 feeling of good will towards others. This has naturally 
 been practised by Frenchmen wherever they may be ; and 
 the consequence is, that the slaves are treated with more 
 consideration, and, in return, have warmer feelings of at- 
 tachment towards their owners than are to be found in 
 colonies belonging to tjther nations. Newton perceived 
 and acknowledged this, and, comparing the condition of 
 the people at Lieu Desiree with that of most of the pea- 
 santry of Europe, Avas unAvilUngly obliged to confess that 
 the former were in every respect the more fortunate and 
 the more happy of the two. 
 
 One morning, soon after Newton had breakfasted with 
 M. de Fontanges, and had been summoned to the boudoir, 
 a letter was brought in. It was from the governor to 
 M. de Fontanges, stating that he had heard with great 
 surprise that M. de Fontanges concealed an English pri-
 
 OR, THE ML'.UCUANT SICRVICK. 147 
 
 soner in his house, and desiring that he might he imme- 
 diately sent up to head-quarters. That there might be no 
 delay or refusal, a corporal, accompanied by two file of 
 men, brought down the intimation to the plantation. 
 
 Newton was in the very middle of a long story, Madame 
 de Fon ranges on the ottoman, and her attendants collected 
 round her, seated on the floor — even Cupidon had ad- 
 vanced from his corner to within half distance, his mouth 
 and eyes wide open, when M. de Fontanges entered the 
 boudoir, with anxiety and chagrin expressed in his coun- 
 tenance. 
 
 " Qu' est ce qui'l y a, mon ami.?" said Madame de 
 Fontanges, rising hastily and running up to her husband. 
 
 M. de Fontanges answered by putting the governor's 
 letter into his wife's hands. 
 
 "Ah! les barbares!" cried Madame de Fontanges, 
 " est il possible } Pauvre Monsieur Nutong ! on I'amene 
 au cachot." 
 
 " Au cachot ! " cried all the coloured girls at a breatn, 
 and bursting into tears — " oh ciel !" 
 
 M. de Fontanges then explained to Newton the order 
 which he had received. Newton replied that he had had 
 no right to expect otherwise on his first landing on the 
 island ; that he had incurred a heavy debt of gratitude to 
 them for having preserved him so long from a prison ; and 
 that the remembrance of their kindness would tend to be- 
 guile the tedious hours of captivity (from which it may 
 appear that Newton, in point of expressing himself, was 
 half a Frenchman already). He then kissed the hand of 
 Madame de Fontanges, tried to console the little slave 
 girls, who were all au dSsespoir, patted Cupidon on the 
 head, by way of farewell, and quitted the boudoir, in which 
 he had passed so many happy hours. When he was out- 
 side, he again expressed his obligations to M. de Fontanges, 
 who then stated his determination to call upon his brother^ 
 the governor, and try to alleviate the hardships of his lot 
 as much as was possible. In less than an hour Newton, in 
 company with his host, was on the road to Basse Terre, 
 leaving the corporal and his two file of men to walk back 
 L 2
 
 148 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 as fast as they could ; the corporal having sufficient savoir 
 vivre not to refuse the pledge of the governor's brother for 
 the safe delivery of the prisoner. 
 
 It was not until late in the evening that they arrived at 
 Basse Terre, when they immediately proceeded to the 
 house of the governor, and were admitted to his presence. 
 
 The governor, who had been much displeased at the 
 circumstance of Newton having remained so long on the 
 island^ was more pacified when M. de Fontanges explained 
 to him the way in which he had been made prisoner, and 
 the hardships which he had previously endured. M. de 
 Fontanges accounted for his long detention at Lieu De- 
 siree by stating the real fact, viz., the pertinacity of 
 Madame de Fontanges ; which, although it might have 
 been considered a very poor argument in England, had its 
 due weight in a French colony. 
 
 The governor entered into conversation with Newton, 
 who detailed to him the horrors of the shipwreck which he 
 had undergone. The narrative appeared to affect him 
 much. He told Newton that under such circumstances 
 he could hardly consider him as a prisoner, and would take 
 the first opportunity of releasing him, and would accept 
 his parole for not quitting the island. Newton returned 
 his thanks for so much courtesy, and withdrew in com- 
 pany with M. de Fontanges. 
 
 " Monsieur le Marquis has much sympathy for those 
 who have been shipwrecked," observed Monsieur de Fon- 
 tanges, after they had quitted the room. " Poor man ! 
 he lost his wife, a beautiful young woman, and his only 
 child, a little girl, about seven years back, when they were 
 proceeding home in a vessel bound to Havre. The vessel 
 has never been heard of since, and he has never recovered 
 the loss." 
 
 " In what year was it ? " inquired Newton. 
 
 " In the autumn of the year — " 
 
 " There were many vessels wrecked on our coast during 
 that dreadful winter," replied Newton : " I myself, when 
 in a coaster, picked up several articles belonging to a Fi'ench 
 vessel. I have them in my possession noAv; — they are of 
 some val le."
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 149 
 
 "What dill they consist of?" inquired Monsieur de 
 Fontanges. 
 
 " A large trunk, containing the wearing apparel of a 
 female and a child : there were also several orders of 
 knighthood, and some jewels; hut I hardly know what they 
 were, as it is some time since I have looked at them." 
 
 " How strange that you could find no clue to discover 
 the names of the parties ! " 
 
 " There were French letters," replied Newton, " which 
 1 could not read ; they were only signed by initials, which 
 did not correspond with (he marks on the linen belonging 
 to the lady, althougli the surname might have been the 
 same as that of the child." 
 
 " Do you recollect the initials ? " 
 
 '^ Perfectly well : the marks on the lady's apparel were 
 L. C, that on the linen of the infant J. F.'' 
 
 " Men Dieu ! mon Dieu I " cried Monsieur de Fon- 
 tanges ; "• then it may indeed have been the apparel of the 
 Marquise de Fontanges. The linen must have been some 
 marked with her maiden name, which A\*'as Louise de Colmar. 
 The child was christened Julie de Fontanges, after her 
 grandmother. My poor brother had intended to take his 
 passage home in the same vessel, his successor being hourly 
 expected ; but the frigate in v^hich the new governor had 
 embarked was taken by an English squadron, and my 
 brother was forced to remain here." 
 
 " Then the property must undoubtedly belong to the 
 marquis," repUed Newton : I only wish I could have been 
 able to assure him that his wife and child were equally 
 safe ; but that I am afraid is impossible, as there can be 
 no doubt but that they were all lost. Do you mean to 
 communicate what I have told you to the marquis ? " 
 
 " By no means ; it will only tear open a wound which 
 has but partially healed. If you will send me all the par- 
 ticulars Avheu you return I shall feel much obliged, not 
 that the effects are of any consequence. The marquise and 
 her child are undoubtedly lost, and it could be no co.iso- 
 lation to my brother to ascertain that a trunk of their 
 effects had been saved." 
 
 L 3
 
 150 NEWTON FORSTEU ; 
 
 Here the conversation dropped, and was never again 
 renewed. 
 
 Newton was heartily welcomed again at Lieu Desin'e, 
 "Rfhere he remained three weeks, when a note from the 
 governor informed him that a cartel was about to sail. 
 
 It was with mutual pain that Newton and his kind 
 friends took their farewell of each other. In this instance 
 M. de Fontanges did not accompany him to Basse Terre ; 
 but bade him adieu at his own door. Newton, soon after 
 he was on the road, perceived that M. de Fontanges had 
 acted from a motive of delicacy, that he might not receive 
 the thanks of Newton for two valises, well furnished, which 
 overtook Newton about a quarter of a mile from the plant- 
 ation, slung on each side of a horse, under the guidance of 
 a little negro, perched on the middle. Newton made his 
 acknowledgments to the governor for his kind consideration, 
 then embarked on board of the Marie Therese schooner, 
 and in three days he once more found himself on shore in 
 an English colony ; with which piece of information I con- 
 clude this chapter. 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 Mercy on us ! a bairn, a very pretty bairn, 
 
 A boy, a child. SHAKSPEAnE. 
 
 When Nev/ton was landed from the cartel at Jamaica, he 
 found the advantage of not being clad in the garb of a 
 sailor, as all those who were in such costume were immedi- 
 ately handed over to the admiral of the station, to celebrate 
 their restoration to liberty on board of a man-of-war ; but 
 the clothes supplied to him by the generosity of M. de 
 Fontanges had any thing but a maritime appearance, and 
 Newton was landed with his portmanteaus by one of the 
 man-of-war's boats, whose crew had little idea of his being 
 a person so peculiarly suited to their views, possessing as 
 he did the necessary qualiiications of youth, activity, and
 
 OR, THR MEUCIIANT SEllV'IClj;. 151 
 
 a thorough knowledge of his profijssion. Newton was so 
 anxious to return home, that after a few daya' expensive 
 sojourn at an liotel, frequented chiefly by the officers of 
 the man-of-war in ))ortj he resolved to apply to the captain 
 of a frigate ordered home with despatclies, to permit him 
 to take a passage. He had formed a slight intimacy with 
 some of t!ie officers, who assured him that he woidd cx])e- 
 rience no difficulty in obtaining his request. His appU- 
 cation was made in person, and after his statement that he 
 had been released in the last cartel which had come from 
 Gua(Ia]ou[)e, his request was immediately granted, without 
 any farther questions being put relative to his profession, 
 or the manner in which he had been captured. The cap- 
 tain very civilly gave him to understand, that he might 
 mess with the gun-room officers, if he could arrange with 
 them, and that lie expected to sail on the evening of the 
 ensuing day. Newton immediately repaired on board of the 
 frigate, to ascertain if the officers would receive him as a 
 messmate ; and further, whether the amount of his mess- 
 money Avould be more than he could in prudence afford. 
 At the bottom of one of the portmanteaus he had found a 
 bag of two hundred dollars, supplied by his generous host, 
 and in the same bag there was also deposited a small note 
 from Madame de Fontanges, wishing him success, and en- 
 closing (as a souvenir) a ring, which he had often per- 
 ceived on her finger ; but, adequate as was this supply to 
 his own wants, Newton did not forget that his father was, 
 in all probability, in great distress, and would require his 
 assistance on his return. He was therefore naturally 
 anxious not to expend more than was absolutely necessary 
 in defraying his passage. The old first-lieutenant, to whom, 
 upon his arrival on board, he was introduced as command- 
 ing officer, received him with much urbanity ; and when 
 Newton stated that he had obtained the captain's permis- 
 sion to make the application immediately acceded to his 
 "wishes on the part of his messmates as well as of himself. 
 Wlien Newton followed up his application, by requesting 
 to know the expense which he would incur, as, in case of 
 its being greater than his finances could meet, he'vvould re- 
 quest permission to choose a less expensive mess. 
 '. 4
 
 152 N'liWTOX FORSTEIl ; 
 
 " I am aware," replied the veteran, " that those who 
 have been shipwrecked, and in a PVencli prison, are not 
 hkely to be very flush of cash. It is, however, a point on 
 which I must consult my messmates. Excuse me one 
 moment, and I will bring you an answer : 1 have no doubt 
 but that it will be satisfactorily arranged ; but tliere is 
 nothing like settling these points at once. Mr. Webster, 
 see that the lighter shoves off the moment that she is cleai-," 
 continued the first-lieutenant to one of the midshipmen as 
 he descended the quartei'-deck ladder, leaving Newton to 
 ivalk the quarter-deck. 
 
 In a few minutes the first-lieutenant reappeared, with 
 one or two others of the gun-room mess, who greeted him 
 most cordially. 
 
 '•' I have seen all that are requisite," said he to Newton. 
 " Two I have not spoken to, the master and the purser ; 
 they are both poor men, with families. If, therefore, you 
 will not be too proud to accept it, 1 am requested to offer 
 you a free passage from the other officers of the mess, as 
 we feel convinced that your company will more than repay 
 us. The proportion of the expense of your passage to the 
 other two will be but one or two pounds ; — a trifle, 
 indeed, but still of consequence to them ; and that is the 
 only expense which you Avill incur. If you can afford to 
 pay that, any time after your arrival in England, we shall 
 be most happy to receive you, and make the passage as 
 comfortable and pleasant as circumstances will permit." * 
 
 To this most liberal proposition Newton most gladly 
 acceded. The officers who had come on deck with the 
 first-lieutenant invited Newton below, where he was intro- 
 duced to the remainder of the mess, who Avere most of 
 them fine young men, as happy and careless as if youth 
 was to Jast for ever. Having pledged each other in a 
 glass of grog, Newton returned on shore. The next morn- 
 ing he made his arrangements, paid his bill at the hotel, 
 and before twelve o'clock was again on board of the frigate, 
 which lay with the Blue Peter hoisted, and her fore-top- 
 sail loose, waiting for her captain, who was still detained 
 on shore while the admiral and governor made up their 
 'lespatches.
 
 OK^ TIIK MEKCilANT SKBVICK. 153 
 
 When Newton had applied to the captain of the i'ri^ite 
 for a passage home, he could hardly helievc it possible thit 
 the person to whom he was introduced could be entrusted 
 with the command of so fine a vessel. He was a slight- 
 made, fair- com i)lexioned lad of nineteen or twenty years at 
 the most, without an incipient mark of manhood on his 
 chin. He appeared lively, active, and good-natured ; but 
 what were the other qualifications he possessed, to discover 
 such a mark of confidence, were to Newton an enigma re- 
 quiring solution. 
 
 It was, however, to be explained in very i'cw words. 
 He was the son of the admiral of the station, and (as at 
 tliat period there was no regulation witli respect to age, to 
 check the most rapid promotion), after he had served his 
 time as midshipman, in less than two months he had been 
 raised through the different ranks of lieutenant, connnamler, 
 and post-captain. On receiving the latter step, he was at 
 the same time appointed to the frigate in question, one of 
 the finest which belonged to his majesty's service. In 
 order, however, that he should to a certain degree be in 
 leading-strings, a very old and efficient officer had heeii 
 selected by the admiral as his first-lieutenant. ^V'hether, 
 in common justice, the captain and his subordinate ought 
 not to have changed places, I leave the reader to guess ; 
 and it was the more unfair towards the worthy old first- 
 lieutenant, as, if the admiral had not entertained such a 
 •high opinion of his abilities and judgment, as to confide to 
 him the charge of his son, he would long before have been 
 promoted himself to one of the many vacancies which so 
 repeatedly occurred. 
 
 Captain Carrington had all the faults, Avhich, if not inhe- 
 rent, will naturally be acquired by those who are too early 
 intrusted with power. He was self-sufficient, arbitrary, 
 and passionate. His good qualities consisted in ii generous 
 disposition, a kindness of heart when not irritated, a manly 
 courage, and a frank acknowledgment of his errors. Had 
 he been allowed to serve a proper time in the various 
 grades of his profession, — had he been taught to obeij 
 before he had been permitted to conunand, — he had 
 within him all the materials for a good officer : as it was,
 
 154 ' NiCWTON lOKSiEIi; 
 
 lie was neither officer, sailor^ nor any thing else, except a 
 spoiled boy. He would often attempt to carry on the duty 
 as captain, and as often failed from want of knowledge. 
 He would commence manoeuvring the ship, but find 
 himself unable to proceed. At these unfortunate break 
 downs, he would be obliged to resign the speaking-trumpet 
 to the first-lieutenant ; and if, as sometimes happened, the 
 latter (either from accident, or perhaps from a pardonable 
 pique at having the duty taken out of liis hands), was not 
 at his elbow to prompt him when at fault — at these times 
 the cant phrase of the officers, taken from some farcC; used 
 to be, " York, you're wanted." 
 
 About an hour before sunset the juvenile captain made 
 his appearance on board, rather fresh from taking leave of 
 his companions and acquaintances on shore. The frigate 
 was got under weigh by the first-lieutenant, and before the 
 sun had disappeared was bounding over the foaming seas in 
 the direction of the country which had nurtured to maturity 
 the gnarled oak selected for her beautiful frame. Newton 
 joined his new messmates in drinking a prosperous passage 
 to old England ; and, with a heart grateful for his im- 
 proved prospects, retired to the hammock which had been 
 prepared for him. 
 
 When Newton rose in the morning, he found that the 
 wind had shifted contrary during the night, and that the 
 frigate was close hauled, darting through the smooth water 
 with her royals set. *At ten o'clock the master proposed 
 tacking the ship, and the first-lieutenant went down to re- 
 port his wish to the captain. 
 
 " Very well, Mr. Nourse," replied the captain ; " turn 
 the hands up." 
 
 " Ay, ay, sir," replied the first-lieutenant, leaving the 
 cabin. 
 
 " Call the boatswain, quarter-master — all hands ' bout 
 ship." 
 
 " All hands 'bout ship," was now bellowed out by the 
 boatswain, and re-echoed by his mates at the several 
 hatchways, with a due proportion of v/histling from their 
 pipes. 
 
 "^ Tum'ule up, there — tumble up smartly, my lads."
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 155 
 
 In a minute every man was on deck, and at his station ; 
 many of them, however, tumblin-g down in their laudable 
 hurry to tumble rip. 
 
 " Silence there, fore and aft — every man to his station," 
 cried the iirst-lieutciiant, through his speaking trumpet. 
 " All ready, sir," reported the first-lieutenant to the cap- 
 tain, who had followed him on deck. " Shall we put the 
 helm down ? 
 
 '^ If you please, Mr. Nourse." 
 
 " Down with the helm." 
 
 When the master reported it down, "The helm's a-lee," 
 roared the first-lieutenant. 
 
 But Captain Carrington, who thought light winds and 
 smooth water a good opportunity for practice, interrupted 
 him as he was walking towards the weather gangway : 
 "Mr. Nourse, ]\Ir. Nourse^ if you please, I'll work the 
 ship." 
 
 " A^ery good, sir," replied the first-lieutenant, handing 
 him the speaking-trumpet. " Rise tacks and sheets, if you 
 please, sir," continued the first-lieutenant {sotto voce), 
 " the sails are lifting." 
 
 " Tacks and sheets ! " cried the captain, 
 
 " Gather in on the lee main-tack, my lads," said the 
 first-lieutenant, going to the lee gangway to see the duty 
 performed. 
 
 No\v Captain Carrington did know that " mainsail 
 haul " was the next word of command ; but as this order 
 requires a degree of precision as to the exact time at which 
 it is given, he looked over his shoulder for the first- 
 lieutenant, who usually prompted him in this exigence. 
 Not seeing him there, he became disconcerted ; and during 
 the few seconds that he cast his anxious eyes about the 
 deck, to discover where the first-lieutenant was, the ship 
 had passed head to wind. 
 
 " Mainsail haul ! " at last cried the captain ; but it was 
 too late ; the yards would not swing round ; every thing 
 went wrong ; and the sliip was in irons. 
 
 •' You hauled a little too late, sir," observed the first- 
 lieutenant, who had joined him. " You must box her off, 
 sir, if you please."
 
 1 56 NEWTON FOUSTEU ; 
 
 But Captain Carringtoii, although he coukl put the ship 
 in irons, did not know how to take her out. 
 
 " The ship is certainly most cursedly out of trim/' oh- 
 served he; " she'll neither wear nor stay. Try her your- 
 self, Mr. Nourse," continued the captain, "I'm sick of 
 her ; " — and with a heightened colour he handed the 
 speaking-trumpet over to the iirst-lieutenant. 
 
 " York, you're Avanted," ohserved the lieutenant abaft 
 to the marine-officer, dropping down the corners of his 
 mouth. 
 
 "York, you're wanted," tittered the midshipmen, ir 
 whispers, as they passed each other. 
 
 "Well, I've won yom- grog, Jim," cried one of the 
 marines, who was standing at the forebrace ; " I knew he' . 
 never do it." 
 
 "He's like me,'' observed another, in a low tone; " he 
 left school too arly, and lost his edication." 
 
 Such were the results of injudicious patronage. A fine 
 ship intrusted to a boy, ignorant of his duty, laughed at, 
 not only by the officers, but even by the men ; and the 
 honour of the country at stake, and running no small risk 
 of being tarnished, if the frigate met with a vigorous op- 
 ponent.* Thank God, this is now over ! Judicious regu- 
 lations have put a stop to such selfish and short-sighted 
 patronage. Selfish, because those who were guilty of it 
 risked the honour of the nation to advance tlie interests of 
 their proteges; short-sighted, because it is of little use 
 making a young man a captain if you cannot make him an 
 officer. I might here enter into a discussion which might 
 be of some use, but it would be out of place in a work in- 
 tended more for amusement than for instruction ; nor 
 would it in all probability be read. I always make it a 
 rule myself, to skip over all those parts introduced in a 
 light work which are of denser materials than the rest; 
 and I cannot expect but that others will do the same. There 
 
 * It is true tliat an officer must now serve a certain time in tlie various 
 grades before promotion, which time is supposed to be sufficient for him to 
 acquire a knowledge of his profession ; but whether that knowledge.is obtained, 
 depends, as before, upon the younu officer's prospects in life. If from famiiv 
 interest he is sutf of promotion, lie is not quite so sure of being a seaman.
 
 on, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 15? 
 
 is a time and place for all things ; and like the master of 
 Ravenscourt, " I bide my time." 
 
 The frigate dashed gallantly through the water, at one 
 time careening to an adverse wind, at another rolling before 
 a favouring gale: and, to judge from her rapid motion, she 
 was not in such very bad trim as Captain Carrington had 
 found out. Each day rapidly brought her nearer to their 
 cherished home, as " she walked the waters like a thing of 
 life." I can conceive no prouder situation in this world 
 than being captain of a fine frigate, with a well-disciplined 
 crew; but d — n your eigJit-and-twenties / 
 
 " We had better take in the royals, if you please, sir," 
 said the first-lieutenant, as he came, with his hat in his 
 hand, into the cabin, where the captain was at dinner with 
 several of the officers, the table crowded with a variety of 
 decanters and French green bottles. 
 
 " Pho ! nonsense! Mr. Nourse, we'll carry them a 
 little longer," replied the captain, who had been carrying 
 too much sail another way. " Sit down and take a glass 
 of wine with us. You always cry out before you're hurt, 
 Nourse.'' 
 
 " I thank you, sir," replied the first-lieutenant, se- 
 riously; "you will excuse me: it is time to beat to 
 quarters.'' 
 
 " Well, then, do so; I had no idea it was so late. Mr. 
 Forster, you don't pass the bottle." 
 
 " I have taken enough, I thank you, sir." 
 The officers present also made the same statement. 
 " Well, then, if you won't gentlemen — steward, let's 
 have some coffee." 
 
 The coffee appeared and disappeared ; and the officers 
 made their bows and quitted the cabin as the first-lieutenant 
 entered it to report the muster at quarters. 
 
 "All present and sober, sir. I am afraid, sir," con- 
 tinued he, " the masts will be over the side, if we do not 
 clew up the royals." 
 
 " Stop a moment, if you please, Mr. Nourse, until I go 
 up and judge for myself," replied the captain, who was 
 inclined to be pertinacious. 
 
 Captain Carrington went on deck. The men were still
 
 158 NKWTON forsteh ; 
 
 ranged round the decks, at their quarters ; more than one 
 pair of eyes were raised aloft to watch the masts, which 
 were bending like coach-whips, and complaining bitterly. 
 
 " Shall we beat a retreat, and pipe hands to shorten sail 
 sir ? We had better take in the third reefs, sir ? it looks, 
 very squally to-night," observed the first-lieutenant. 
 
 " Really, Mr. Nourse, I don ' t exactly perceive the 
 necessity " 
 
 But at that moment the fore and main-top-gallant..masts 
 went over the side ; and the look-out man at the fore- top- 
 gallant-mast-head, who had been called down by the first- 
 lieutenant, but did not hear the injunction, was hurled into 
 the sea to leeward. 
 
 " Helm down ! " cried the master. 
 
 " Man overboard ! — man overboard ! " echoed round 
 tilt decks ; while some of the officers and men jumped into 
 the quarter boats, and off the gripes and laskings. 
 
 Captain Carrington, who was immediately sobered by the 
 catastrophe, which he felt had been occasioned by his own 
 wilfulness, ran aft to the tafFrail ; and when he saw the 
 poor sailor struggling in the waves, impelled by his really 
 fine nature, he darted overboard to save him ; but he was 
 not by any means a powerful swimmer, and, incumbered 
 with his apparel, it was soon evident that he could do no 
 more than keep himself afloat. 
 
 Newton, who perceived how matters stood, with great 
 presence of mind caught up two of the oars from the boat 
 hanging astern, and darted over to the assistance of both. 
 One oar he first carried to the seaman, who was exhausted 
 and sinking. Placing it under his arms, he then swam 
 with the other to Captain Carrington, who could not have 
 remained above water but a few seconds more without the 
 timely relief. He then quietly swam by the side of Cap- 
 tain Carrington, without any attempt at extra exertion. 
 
 The boat was soon lowered down, and in a few minutefi 
 they were all three again on board, and in safety. Captain 
 Carrington thanked Newton for his assistance, and acknow- 
 ledged his error to the first-heutenant. The officers and 
 men looked upon Newton with respect and increased good-
 
 OR, TIIF. MEKCHANT SERVICK 1.^9 
 
 ■will ; and tlic sailors declared that the captain was a prime 
 little fellow, although he had n't had an " edication." 
 
 Nothing worthy of remark occurred during the remainder 
 of the passage. The ship arrived at Plymouth, and New- 
 ton took leave of his friendly shipmates. Captain Carring- 
 ton requesting that Newton would command any interest 
 that he had, if ever it should be required. It was with 
 a throbbing heart that Newton descended from the outside 
 of the coach which conveyed him to Liverpool, and has- 
 tened towards the obscure street in which he left his father 
 residing. It was about four o'clock in the afternoon when 
 Newton arrived at his father's door. To his dehght, he 
 perceived through the shop-window that his father was 
 sitting at his bench ; — but his joy was checked when he 
 perceived his haggard countenance. The old man appeai'ed 
 to be absorbed in deep thought, his cheek resting upon his 
 hand, and his eyes cast down upon the little bench, to 
 which the vice used to be fixed, but from which it was 
 now removed. 
 
 The door was ajar, and Newton entered with his port- 
 manteau in his hand ; but whatever noise he might have 
 made was not sufficient to rouse Nicholas, who continued 
 in the same position. 
 
 ^V^ith one glance round the shop Newton perceived that 
 it was bare of every thing ; even the glazed cases on the, 
 counter, which contained the spectacles, &c., had disap- 
 peared. All bespoke the same tale, as did the appearance 
 of his father — misery and starvation. 
 
 " My dearest father ! " cried Newton, unable to contain 
 himself any longer. 
 
 " How ! — what?" cried Nicholas, starting at the voice 
 but not looking round. '' Pho ! nonsense! he's dead," 
 continued the old man, communing with himself, as he 
 again settled into his former position. 
 
 " My dearest father, I ' m not dead ! — look round — 
 't is Newton ! alive and well." 
 
 " Newton ! " replied the old man, rising from his stool, 
 and tottering to the counter, which was between them, on 
 which be laid both his hands to support himself, as he
 
 160 NKWTON FORSTKR 
 
 looked into his son's face. "■ ' Tis Newton, sure enough . 
 My dear, dear boy ! — then you an' t dead ? " 
 
 ''No, indeed, father ; I am aUve and well, thank God!" 
 
 " Thank God too ! " said Nicholas, dropping his face on 
 the counter, and bursting into tears. 
 
 Newton sprung over to the side where his father was, 
 and embraced him. For some time they were locked in 
 each other's arms ; when Nicholas, who had recovered his 
 composure, looked at Newton, and said, "^ Are you hungry 
 my dear boy .''" 
 
 " Yes, indeed I am," replied Newton, smiling, as the 
 tears coursed down his cheeks; for I have had nothing 
 since breakfast." 
 
 " And I have had nothing for these two days," re- 
 plied Nicholas, ' leaning back to tlie wall in evident 
 exhaustion. 
 
 " Good God! you don't say so.^ " cried Newton, ''where 
 can I buy something ready cooked .'' " 
 
 " At the shop round the corner ; there's a nice piece of 
 boiled beef there ; I saw it yesterday. I offered my im- 
 provement on the duplex for a slice ; but he would not 
 trust me, even for that." 
 
 Newton ran out, and in a few minutes re-appeared with 
 the beef in question, some bread, and a pot of porter, with 
 two plates and knives and forks, which the people had lent 
 him, upon his putting down a deposit. He laid them on 
 the counter before his father, who, without saying a word, 
 commenced his repast : the beef disappeared — the bread 
 vanished — the porter-pot was raised to his mouth, and 
 in a moment it was dry ! 
 
 '' Never made a better dinner, Newton," observed Ni- 
 cholas ; but I wish there had been a little more of it!" 
 
 Newton, who had only been a spectator, immediately 
 went out for another supply ; and on his return assisted 
 his father in its demolition. 
 
 " Newton," said Nicholas, who for a few moments had 
 relinquished his task, "I've been thinking — that — I 
 should like another slice of that beef ! and Newton, as I 
 said before — 1 ' 11 trouble you for the porter ! "
 
 OK. THE MERCHANT SERVICE. l6l 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 Orlando. Then forbear your food a little while, 
 
 While, like a clue, 1 go to find my fawn, 
 
 And give it food. There is a poor old man 
 
 Oppressed with two weak evils, age and hunger. SiIAKSPEARE. 
 
 Reader, were you ever really hungry 'i I do not mean 
 the common hunger arising from health and exercise., and 
 which you have the means of appeasing at the monien* 
 when it may be considered a source of pleasure rather than 
 of pain : — 1 refer to the gnawing of starvation ; because 
 if you have not, you can form no conception of the agony 
 of the suffering- Fortunately, but very few of my readeis 
 can have any knowledge of it ; the general sympathy which 
 it creates is from an ideal, not a practical knowledge. Jt 
 has been my lot during the vicissitudes of a maritime lite 
 to have suffered hunger to extremity ; and although im- 
 possible to express the corporeal agony, yet some notion of 
 it may be conceived from the effect it had upon my mind. 
 I felt that 1 hated the whole world, kin or no kin ; that 
 theft was a virtue, murder excusable, and cannibalism any 
 thing but disgusting; from which tlie inference may be 
 safely drawn, viz. that 1 was devilish hungry. 
 
 I mention this, because Nicholas Forster, although he 
 had been two days without food, and had disposed of every 
 article which was saleable, was endued with so much 
 strength of principle, as not to have thought (or if he had 
 thought of it, immediately to have dismissed the thought) 
 of vending the property found in the trunk by his son, and 
 which had remained so long in their possession. That 
 few would have been so scrupulous, I will acknowledge : 
 whether Nicholas was over-scrupulous, is a question I leave 
 to be debated by those who are fond of argument. I only 
 state the fact. 
 
 Until the arrival of the ship brought home by Mr. Bere- 
 croft, the allotment of Newton's wages hatl been regu- 
 larly paid to his father; but when the owner discovered 
 tha»: the brig had jiarted company with the convoy, and had
 
 162 NEWTON FORSTEIl, 
 
 not since been heard of, the chance of capture was consi- 
 dered so great that the owner refused to advance any more 
 on Newton's account. Nicholas was thus thrown upon 
 his own resources, which were as small as they well could 
 be. The crew of the brig, who quitted her in the boat 
 were picked up by a homeward-bound vessel, and brought 
 what was considered the certain intelligence of Jackson 
 and Newton having i)erished on the wreck. Nicholas^ who 
 had frequently called at the owner's since his allowance had 
 been stopped, to obtain tidings of his son, was overwhelmed 
 with the intelligence of his death. He returned to his 
 own house, and never called there again. Mr. BerecroCt, 
 who wished to find him out and relieve him, could not as- 
 certain in what quarter of the town he resided, and shortly 
 after was obliged to proceed upon another voyage. Thus 
 was the poor optician left to his fate ; and it is probable 
 that, but for the fortunate return of Newton, it would soon 
 have been miserably decided. 
 
 Newton was much pleased when he learnt from his 
 father that he had not disposed of the property which he 
 had picked up at sea, for he now felt assured that he had 
 discovered the owner at Guadaloupej and intended to trans- 
 mit it to M. de Fontanges as soon as he could find a safe 
 conveyance ; but this at present was not practicable. As 
 soon as his father had been re-established in his several 
 necessaries and comforts, Newton, aware that his purse 
 would not last for ever, applied to the owner of the brig 
 for employment ; but he was decidedly refused. The loss of 
 the vessel had soured his temper against any one who had 
 belonged to her. He replied that he considered Newton 
 to be an unlucky person, and must decline his sailing in 
 any of his vessels, even if a vacancy should occur. . 
 
 To every other application made elsewhere Newton met 
 with the same ill fortune. Mr. Berecroft was not there to re- 
 commend or to assist him, and months passed away in anx- 
 ious expectation of his patron's return, when the intelligence 
 was brought home that he had been carried off by the yeilow 
 fever, which that year had been particularly mahgnani and 
 fatal. The loss of his only protector was a heavy biovv to 
 poor Newton; but he bore up against I)is fortune, and
 
 OR, THE aiEKCHANT SERVICE. 163 
 
 redoubled his exertions. As before, he could always obrain 
 employment before the mast; but this he refused, know- 
 ing that if again impressed, however well he miglit be off 
 himself, and however fortvinate in prize-money, his father 
 would be left destitute, and in all probability be starveo 
 before he could return. The recollection of the situation 
 in which he had found him on his return from the West 
 Indies made Newton resolve not to leave his father without 
 some surety of his being provided with the means of sub- 
 sistence. He was not without some employment, and 
 earned sufficient for their mutual maintenance by working 
 as a rigger on board of the ships fitting for sea ; and he 
 adhered to this means of livelihood until something better 
 should present itself. Had Newton beeji alone in the 
 world, or his father able to support himself, he would have 
 immediately applied to Captain Carrington to receive him- 
 in some capacity on board of his frigate, or have entered on 
 board of some other man-of-war. Newton's heart was too 
 generous, and his mind too truly English, not to bound 
 when he read or heard of the gallant encounters between the * 
 vessels of tlie rival nations, and he longed to be one of the 
 many thousands so diligently employed in twining the 
 wreath of laurel round their country's brow. 
 
 Nearly one year of constant fatigue, constant expecta- 
 tion, and constant disappointment was thus passed away ; 
 affairs grew daily worse, employment scarce, money 
 scarcer. Newton^ who had been put off from receiving his 
 wages until the ensuing day, which, as they had no credit, 
 was in fact putting off their dinner also to the morrow, 
 went home, and dropped on a chair in a despondent mood, 
 at the table, where Nicholas was already seated. 
 
 " Well, Newton, what 's for dinner ? " said Nicholas, 
 drawing his chair close to the table, in preparation 
 
 " I have not been paid the money due to me," replied 
 Newton, '^ and, father, I'm afraid there's nothing. 
 
 Nicholas backed his chair from the table again, with an 
 air of resignation, as Newton continued — 
 
 " Indeed, father, I think we must try our fortune else- 
 where. What's the use of staying where we cannot gci 
 employment.'' Every thing is now gone, except our wear- 
 M 2
 
 l64 NEWTON FORSXEU , 
 
 ing apparel. We might raise some money upon mine, ii 
 is true ; but had we not better, before we spend it, try if 
 fortune -will be more favourable to us in some other 
 place ? " 
 
 " Why, yes, Newton, I've been thinking that if we were 
 to go to London, my improvement on the duplex " 
 
 " Is that Oar only chance there, sir ? " replied Newton, 
 half smiling. 
 
 "Why no; now I think of it, I've a brother there, 
 John Forster, or Jack, as we used to call him. It 's near 
 thirty years since I heard of him ; but somebody told me 
 when you were in the ^Fest Indies, that he had become a 
 great lawyer, and was making a large fortune. I quite 
 forgot the circumstance till just now." 
 
 Newton had before heard his father mention that he 
 .had two brothers, but whether dead or alive he could not 
 tell. The present intelligence appeared to hold out some 
 prospect of relief, for Newton could not for a moment . 
 doubt that if his uncle was in such flourishing circum- 
 stances, he would not refuse assistance to his brother. He 
 therefore resolved not to wait until their means were to- 
 tally exhausted : the next day he disposed of all his clothes 
 except one suit, and found himself richer than he had ima- 
 gined. Having paid his landlord the trifle due for rent, 
 without any other incumbrance than the packet of article" 
 picked up in the trunk at sea, three pounds sterling in his 
 pocket, and the ring of Madame de Fontaiiges on his little 
 linger, Newton with his father set off on foot for the 
 metropolis.
 
 OB. THE MERCHANT SERVICK l6' 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 I labour to difTuse tlie imporfant good > 
 
 Till this great truth by all bo umierstood. 
 
 That all the jiious duty which we owe 
 
 Our parents, friends, our country, and our God, 
 
 The seed of every virtue here below, 
 
 I'Yom discipline and early culture grow. Wicsr. 
 
 The diiTereiit chapters of a novel remind me of a convoy 
 of vessels. The incidents and dramatis personce are so 
 many respective freights, all under the charge of the in- 
 ventor, who, like a man-of-war, must see them all safely, 
 and together, into port. And as the commanding officer, 
 when towing one vessel which has lagged behind up to the 
 rest, finds that in the mean time another has dropped 
 nearly out of sight, and is obliged to cast off the one in 
 tow, to perform the same necessary duty towards the stern- 
 most, so am I necessitated for the present to quit Nicholas \ 
 and Newton, while I run down to Edward Forster and 
 his j)7'otegee. 
 
 It must be recollected that during our narrative, " Time 
 has rolled his ceaseless course," and season has succeeded 
 season, until the infant, in its utter helplessness to lift its 
 little hands for succour, has sprung up into a fair blue- 
 eved little maiden of nearly eight years old, light as a fairy 
 in her proportions, bounding as a fawn in her gait ; her 
 cvfs beaming with joy, and her cheeks suffused with the 
 blush of health, when tripping over the sea-girt hills ; 
 meek and attentive when listening to the precepts of her 
 fond and adopted parent. 
 
 Faithful, the Newfoundland dog is no more, but his 
 portrait hangs over the mantle-piece in the little pai'lour. 
 Mrs. Beazeley, the housekeeper, has become inert and 
 querulous from rheumatism and the burden of added 
 years. A little girl, daughter of Robinson, the fisherman, 
 has been called in to perform her duties, while she basks 
 m the summer's sun or hangs over the winter's fire. 
 Edward Forster's whole employment and whole delight 
 M 3
 
 166 NEWTON FORSTKI! ; 
 
 has long been centered in his darling child^ whose Lcautv of 
 person, quickness of intellect, generous disposition, and af- 
 fectionate heart, amply repay him for his kind protection. 
 
 Of all chapters which can be ventured upon, one upon 
 education is perhaps the most tiresome. Most willingly 
 would I pass it over, not only for the reader's sake, but for 
 mine own ; for his — because it cannot well be otherwise 
 than dry and uninteresting ; for mine — because I do not 
 exactly know how to write it. 
 
 But this cannot be. Aml.er was not brought up ac- 
 cording to the prescribed maxims of Mesdames Appleton 
 and Hamilton ; and as effects cannot be satisfactorily com- 
 prehended without the causes are made known, so it be- 
 comes necessary, not only that the chapter should be written, 
 but, what is still more vexatious, absolutely necessary that 
 it should be read. 
 
 Before I enter upon this most unpleasant theme — un- 
 pleasant to all parties, for no one likes to teach and no one 
 likes to learn, I. cannot help remarking how excessively an 
 fait we find most elderly maiden ladies upon every point 
 connected with the rearing of our unprofitable species. 
 They are erudite upon every point ab ovo, and it v;ouId ap- 
 pear that their peculiar knowledge of the theory can but 
 arise from their attentions having never been diverted by 
 the practice. 
 
 Let it be the teeming mother or the new-born babe 
 — the teething infant or the fractious child — the dirty, 
 pin-before urchin or sampler-spoiling girl — school-boy 
 lout or sapling Miss — voice-broken, self-admiring hobby- 
 de-hoy, or expanding conscious and blushing maiden, the 
 whole arcana of nature and of art has been revealed to 
 them alone. 
 
 Let it be the scarlet-fever or a fit of passion, the njeasles 
 or a shocking fib — hooping-cough or apple stealing — 
 learning too slow or eating too fast — slapping a sister or 
 clawing a brother — let the disease be bodily or mental, 
 tliey alone possess the panacea ; and blooming matrons, 
 spreading out in their pride, like the anxious chuckling 
 hen, over their numerous encircling offspring, who have 
 borne them with a mother's throes. Avatched over them "with
 
 OR, THE JIERCHANT SERVICE. 167 
 
 a mother's anxious mind, and reared them with a mother's 
 ardent love, are considered to be wholly incompetent, in 
 the opinion of these dessicated and barren branches of 
 nature's stupendous, ever- bearing tree. 
 
 Mrs. Beazeley, who had lost her husband soon after 
 marriage, was not fond of children, as they interfered with 
 her habits of extreme neatness. As far as Amber's educa- 
 tion was concerned, all we can say is, that if the old house- 
 keeper did her no good, she certainly did her no hann. As 
 Amber increased in years and intelligence, so did her thirst 
 for knowledge on topics upon which Mrs. Beazeley was un- 
 able to give her any correct information. Under these 
 circumstances, when applied to, Mrs. Beazeley, who was too 
 conscious to mislead the child, was accustomed to place 
 her hand upon her back, and complain of the rheumatiz 
 — ''Such a stitch, my dear love, can't talk now — ask 
 your pa' when he comes home." 
 
 Edward Forster had maturely weighed the difficulties of 
 the charge imposed upon him, that of educating a female. 
 The peculiarity of her situation, without a friend in the 
 wide world except himself; and his days, in all proba- 
 bility, numbered to that period at which she would most 
 require an adviser — that period, when the heart rebels 
 against the head, and too often overthrows the legitimate 
 dynasty of reason, determined him to give a masculine 
 character to her education, as most likely to prove the 
 surest safeguard through a deceitful world. 
 
 Aware that more knowledge is to be imparted to a child 
 by conversation than by any other means (for by this 
 system education is divested of its drudgery), during the 
 first six years of her life Amber knew little more than the 
 letters of the alphabet. It was not until her desire of in- 
 formation was excited to such a degree as to render her 
 anxious to obtain her own means of acquiring it that Amber 
 was taught to read ; and then it was at her own request. 
 Edward Forster %vas aware that a child of six years old, 
 willing to learn, would soon pass by another who had been 
 drilled to it at an earlier age and against its wiU, and whose 
 mind had been checked in its expansive powers by the 
 weight which constantly oppressed its infant memory, 
 
 BI 4
 
 l68 NEWTON FORSTF.ll ; 
 
 Until the above age the mind of Amber had been permitted 
 to run as unconfined through its own little regions of fancy 
 as her active body had been allowed to spring up the ad- 
 jacent hills — and both were equally beautified and strength- 
 ened by the healthy exercise. 
 
 Religion was deeply impressed upon her grateful heart ; 
 but it was simplified almost to unity, that it might be 
 clearly understood. It was conveyed to her through the 
 glorious channel of nature, and God was loved and feared 
 from the contemplation and admiration of his works. 
 
 Did Amber fix her eyes upon the distant ocean, or watch 
 the rolling of the surf; did they wander over the verdant 
 hills, or settle on the beetling chft; did she raise her cherub- 
 face to the heavens, and wonder at the studded firmament 
 of stars, or the moon sailing in her cold beauty, or the sun 
 blinding her in his warmth and splendour ; she knew that 
 it was God who made them all. Did she ponder over the 
 variety of the leaf; did she admire the painting of the 
 flower, or watch the motions of the minute insect, which, 
 but for her casual observation, might have lived and died 
 unseen ; — she felt — she knew that all was made for 
 man's advantage or enjoyment, and that God was great and 
 good. Her orisons were short, but they were sincere ; un- 
 like the child who, night and morning, stammers through 
 a "BeUef " which it cannot comprehend, and whose ideas 
 of religion are, from injudicious treatment, too soon con- 
 nected with feelings of impatience and disgust. 
 
 Curiosity has been much abused. From a habit we have 
 contracted in this world of not calling things by their right 
 names, it has been decried as a vice, whereas it ought to have 
 been classed as a virtue. Had Adam first discovered the for- 
 bidden fruit, he would have tasted it, without, like Eve, 
 requiring the suggestions of the devil to lu'ge him on to * 
 disobedience. But if by curiosity was occasioned the fall 
 of man, it is the same passion by which he is spurred to 
 rise again, and reappear only inferior to the Deity. The 
 curiosity of little minds may be impertinent ; but the 
 curiosity of great minds is the thirst for knowledge — the 
 daring of our immortal powers — the enterprise of the soul, 
 to raise itself again to its original high estate. It was
 
 OR, THE MF.KCHANT SKHVICE. l60 
 
 curiosity wiiich stimulated the great Newton to search into 
 the laws of heaven, and enabled his master-mind to trans- 
 late the vast mysterious page of Nature, ever beforfe our 
 eyes since the creation of the world, but never till he ap- 
 peared, to be read by mortal rnan. Il is this jiassion which 
 must be nurtured in our childhood, for upon its healthy 
 growth and vigour depend the future expansion of the 
 mind. 
 
 How I'lttle money need be expended to teach a child, and 
 yet what a quantity of books we have to pay for! Amber 
 liad hardly ever looked into a book, and yet she knew more, 
 that is, had more general useful knowledge than others 
 who were twice her age. How small was Edward Fovster'<6 
 little parlour — how humble the furniture it contained ! — 
 a carpet, a table, a few chairs, a small China vase, as an 
 ornament, on the mantle-piece. How few were the objects 
 brought to Amber's view in their small secluded home ! 
 The plates and knives for dinner, a silver spoon or two, 
 and their articles of wearing ajiparel. Yet how endless, 
 how inexhaustible was the amusement and instruction de- 
 rived from these trifling sources ! — for these were For- 
 ster's books. 
 
 The carpet — its hempen ground carried them to the 
 north, from whence the material came, the inhabitants of 
 the frozen world, their manners and their customs, the 
 climate and their cities, their productions and their sources 
 of wealth. Its woollen surface, with its various dyes — 
 each dye containing an episode of an island or a state, a 
 point of natural history, or of art and manufacture. 
 
 The mahogany table, like some magic vehicle, trans- 
 ported them in a second to the torrid zone, where the 
 various tropical flowers and fruit, the towering cocoa-nut, 
 the spreading palm, the broad-leaved banana, the fragrant 
 pine — all that was indigenous to the country, all that was 
 peculiar in the scenery and the clime, were pictured to the 
 imagination of the delighted Amber. 
 
 The little vase upon the mantle-piece swelled into a 
 splendid atlas of eastern geography, an inexhaustible folio 
 describing Indian customs, the Asiatic splendour of costume, 
 the gorgeous thrones of the descendants of the Prophet, tjie
 
 X70 NE'.VTON fORSTKR : 
 
 history of the Prophet himself, the superior instinct and 
 Klupendous body of the elephant ; all that Edward P'orster 
 liad collected of nature or of art, tiirough these extensive 
 regions, %vere successively displayed^ until they returned tc 
 China, fi-om whence they had commenced their travels. 
 Thus did the little vase, like the vessel taken up by the 
 fishennan in the Arabian Nights, contain a giant confined 
 by the seal of Solomon — Knowledge. 
 
 The knife and spoon brought food unto t'/.e mind as well 
 as to the body. The mines were entered, the countries 
 pointed out in which they were to be found, the various 
 metals, their value, and the uses to which they were applied, 
 'Ihe dress again led them abroad; the cotton liung in pods 
 upon the tree, the. silkworm spun its yellow tomb, all the 
 ])roccss of manufacture was explained. The loom again 
 was worked by fancy, until the article in comment was 
 again produced. 
 
 Thus was Amber instructed and amused ; and thus, 
 with nature for his hornbook, and art for his primer, did 
 the little parlour of Edward Forster expand into " the 
 universe." 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 • they boast 
 
 Their noble birth : conikict us to the tnmbs 
 
 Of their forefathers, and froin age to age 
 
 Ascending, trumpet to thfiir illustrious race. Cowper, 
 
 Devoted as he was to the instruction of his adopted child, 
 Edward Forster was nevertheless aware that more was re- 
 quired in the education of a female than he was competent 
 to fulfil. Many and melancholy were his reveries on the 
 forlorn prospects of the little girl (considering his own 
 precarious life and the little chance that appeared of re- 
 storing her to her friends and relations), still he resolved 
 that all that could should be done; the issue he left to 
 Providence. That she might not be cast wholly unkncwn
 
 OR, THE MEftCIIANT PKIiVICK. 171 
 
 upon the world, in case of his tleath, lie had often taken 
 Amber to a neighbouring mansion, with the owner of which. 
 Lord Aveleyn, he had long been on friendly terms ; al- 
 though, until latterly, he had declined mixing with the 
 society which was there collected. Many years before, the 
 possessor had entered the naval service, and had, during the 
 few months that he had served in the capacity of midship- 
 man, been intrusted to the charge of Edward Forster. 
 
 it is a curious fact, although little commented upon, how 
 much society in general is affected by the entailment of 
 property in aristocratical families upon the male heir ; wq 
 may add, how much it is demoralised. The eldest son, 
 accustomed from his earliest days to the flattery and adu- 
 lation of dependents, is impressed with but one single 
 idea, namely, that he is the fortunate person deputed by 
 chance to spend so many thousands per annum, and that 
 his brothers and sisters, ivith equal claims upon their parent, 
 are to be almost dependent upon him for support. Of this 
 the latter are but too soon made conscious, by the difference 
 of treatment which they experience from those around them; 
 and feelings of envy and ill-v/ill towards their eldest brother 
 are but too often the result of such inequality. Thus one of 
 the greatest charms of life, unity between l)iethren, is 
 destroyed. 
 
 The possessor of the title and the estates is at last borne 
 to his long home, there to lie until summoned before that 
 presence where he and those who were kings, and those 
 who were clowns, will stand trembling as erring men, 
 awaiting the fiat of eternal justice. In his turn, the young 
 lord revels in his youth. 
 
 Then how much more trying is the situation of the younger 
 brothers. During their father's lifetime they had a home, 
 and were brought up in scenes and with ideas commensu- 
 rate with the fortune which had been entailed. Now, they 
 find themselves thrown upon the world, without the means 
 of support, even adequate to their wants. Like the steward 
 in the parable, " they cannot dig, to beg they are ashamed;" 
 and like him, they too often resort to unworthy means to 
 supply their exigences. 
 
 Should the -voung heir prove sickly, what speculations on
 
 172 NKVVTON rORSTKIJ ; 
 
 his demise ! The worldly stake is so enormous, that the 
 ties of nature are dissolved, and a brother rejoices at a 
 brother's death ! One generation is not sufficient to remove 
 these feelings ; the barrenness of his marriage bed, or the 
 weakly state of his children, are successively speculated 
 upon by the presumptive heir. Let it not be supposed that 
 1 would infer this always to be the fact. I have put the 
 extreme case, to point out what must ensue, according to 
 the feelings of our nature, if care is not taken to prevent 
 its occurrence. There is a cruelty, a more than cruelty, in 
 parents bringing up their children with ideas which sel- 
 dom can be realised, and rendering their future lives a pil- 
 grimage of misery and discontent, if not of depravity. 
 
 But the major part of our aristocracy are neither deficient 
 m talent nor in worth. They set a bright example to the 
 nobles of other countries, and very frequently even to the 
 less demoralised society of our own. Trammelled by the 
 deeds of their forefathers, they employ every means in their 
 power to remedy the evil, and a large proportion of their 
 younger branches find useful and honourable employment 
 in the army, the navy, or the churcli. But their numbers 
 cannot all be provided for by these channels, and it is the 
 country at large which is taxed to supply the means of 
 sustenance to the younger scions of nobility; taxed directly 
 in the shape of place and sinecure, indirectly in various 
 ways, but in no way so heavily as by the monopoly of the 
 East India Company, which has so long been permitted to 
 oppress the nation, that these detrimentals (as they have 
 lamed themselves) may be provided for. It is a well-known 
 i'act, that there is hardly a peer in the upper House, or 
 many representatives of the people in the lower, who are 
 not, or Avho anticipate to be, under some obligation to this 
 Company by their relations or connections being provided for 
 in those distant climes ; and it is this bribery (for bribery 
 it is, in whatever guise it may appear) that upholds one of 
 the most glaring, the most oppressive of all monopolies, in 
 the face of common sense, common justice and common de- 
 cency. Other taxes are principally felt by the higher and 
 middling classes ; but this most odious, this most gaUing 
 tax, is felt even in the cottage of the labourer, who cannot
 
 OR;, TIIK MKUCIIANT SKKVICK. 173 
 
 return to refresh himself after his day of toil with his 
 favourite beverage without paying twice its value out of his 
 hard-earned pittance, to swell the dividend of the Company, 
 and support these pruriencies of noble blood. 
 
 And yet, deprecating the evils arising from tlic system 
 of entail, I must acknowledge that there are no other means 
 by Avhich (in a monarchical government) the desirable end 
 of upholding rank is to be obtained. I remember once, 
 when conversing with an American, I inquired after one 
 or two of his countrymen, who but a few years before 
 were of great wealth and influence. To one of my remarks 
 he answered, " In our country all the wealth and power 
 at the time attached to it does not prevent a name from 
 sinking into insignificance, or from being forgotten soon 
 after its possessor is dead, for w'e do not entail property. 
 The distribution scatters the amassed heap, by which the 
 world around him had been attracted ; and although the 
 distribution tends to the general fertilisation of the country, 
 yet with the disappearance, the influence of the possessor 
 and even his name are soon forgotten." 
 
 These remarks, as will appear in the sequel, are apposite 
 to the parties which I am about to introduce to the reader. 
 As, however, they are people of some consequence, it may 
 appear to be a want of due respect on my part, if I v^ere 
 to introduce them at the fag-end of a chapter. 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 'T was his the vast and tracklc::* <iopp to rove. 
 
 Alternate change of climates has ho known. 
 
 And felt the fierce extremes of eitlier zone. 
 
 Where polar skies congeal th' eternal snow, 
 
 Or equinoctial suns for ever glow ; 
 
 Smoto by the freezing or the scorching blast, 
 
 A ship-boy on the high and giddy mast. FArxONEtl. 
 
 TiiK father of the present Lord Aveleyn had three sons, 
 and, in conformity with the usages commented upon in the 
 preceding chapter, the two youngest were condevimed to
 
 I?'* NEWTON FORfcrriOK ; 
 
 the army and navy, the second, wlio had priority of clioict- 
 being dismissed to gather laurels in a red coat, while thf 
 third was recommended to do the same, if he could, in a 
 suit of blue. Fairly embarked in their several professions, 
 a sum of fifty pounds per annum was placed in the handr- 
 of their respective agents, and no more was thought about 
 a pair of detrimentals. 
 
 Lord Aveleyn's father, who had married late in life, waa 
 summoned away when the eldest brother of the present 
 Lord Aveleyn, the heir, was yet a minor, about two years 
 after he had embarked in the ship to which Edward Forster 
 belonged. Now it was the will of Providence that about 
 six months after the old nobleman's decease the young lord 
 and his second brother, who had obtained a short furlough, 
 should most unadvisedly embark in a small sailing boat on 
 the lake close to the mansion, and that owing to some mis- 
 management of the sail the boat upset, and they were both 
 (h-owned. 
 
 As soon as the melancholy intelligence was made known 
 
 to the trustees, a letter was despatched to Captain L , 
 
 who commanded the ship in which young Aveleyn was 
 serving his time, acquainting him with the catastrophe, and 
 requesting the immediate discharge of the young midship- 
 man. The captain repaired on board : when he arrived 
 on the quarter-deck, he desired the first-lieutenant to send 
 do\vn for young Aveleyn. 
 
 " He is at the mast-head, sir," replied the first-lieu- 
 tenant, " for neglect of duty." 
 
 " Really, Mr. "W" ," replied the captain, who had 
 
 witnessed the boy's ascent at least a hundred times before 
 with perfect indifference, and had often sent him up him- 
 se^lf, "' you appear to be very sharp upon that poor lad ; 
 you make no allowance for youth — boys will be boys.'"' 
 
 " He 's the most troublesome young monkey in the ship, 
 ;r," replied the first-lieutenant, surprised at this unusual 
 i:iterfereuce. 
 
 " He has always appeared to me to be a well-disposed 
 
 intelligent lad, Mr. W , and I wish you to understand 
 
 that I do not approve of this system of eternal mast-heading. 
 However, he will not trouble ydu any more, as his die-
 
 Oi;, TllK J1L35CMANT SKKVICE. 175 
 
 cnarge is to bs immediately made out. He is row," con- 
 tinued the captain, jwusing to give more effect to his 
 communication, " Lord Avcleyn." 
 
 " Whew ! now the murder's out," mentally exclaimed 
 tliP first-lieutenant. 
 
 " Call him down immediately, Mr. \V , if you 
 
 please — and recollect that 1 disapprove of the system," 
 
 "Certainly, sir; but really. Captain L , I don't 
 
 know v/hat 1 shall do if you restrict my power of punishing 
 'the young gentlemen; they are so extremely unruly. 
 There 's Mr. Malcolm," continued the first-lieutenant, 
 pointing to a youngster who was walking on the other side 
 of the deck with his hands in his pockets, it was but 
 yesterday that he chopped off at least four inches from the 
 tail of your dog Ponto, at the beef- block, and pretends it 
 was an accident." 
 
 " What! my setter's tail?" 
 
 " Yes, sir, he did, 1 can assure you." 
 
 "■ Mr. Malcolm," 'cried the captain, :n great wrath, 
 " how came you to cut off my dog's tail ?" 
 
 Before I went to sea I had always considered a London 
 cock-sparrow to be the truest emblem of consummate im- 
 pudence ; but I have since discovered that he is quite 
 modest compared to a midshipman. 
 
 "Me, sir.''" replied the youngster, demurely, "I 
 didn't cut off his tail, sir ; he cut it off' himself! " 
 
 " What, sir.-"" roared the captain. 
 
 "If you please, sir, I was chopping a piece of beef, and 
 the dog, who was standing by, turned short round and put 
 his tail under the chopper," 
 
 '• Put his tail under the chopper, you little scamp!" 
 
 rephed Captain L , in a fury. " Now just put your 
 
 head above the maintop-gallant cross-trees, and stay there 
 
 until you are called down, Mr, W , you 'il keep nim 
 
 up till sunset." 
 
 " Ay, ay, sir," replied the first-lieutenant, with a satis- 
 factory smile at the description of punishment inflicted. 
 
 When I was a midshipman, it was extremely difficult 
 to avoid the mast-head. Out of six years served in that 
 capacity, I once made a calculatioi!. that two of them were
 
 17(3 NEWTON I'OUSITCi: ; 
 
 passed away perched upon the cross-trees, looking down 
 with calm philosophy upon the microcosm below. Yet, 
 although I never deserved it, I derived much future ad- 
 vantage from my repeated punishments. The mast-head, 
 for want of something worse to do, became my study, and 
 during the time spent there, I in a manner finished my 
 education. Volumes after volumes were perused to while 
 away the tedious hours, and I conscientiously believe it is 
 to this mode of punishment adopted by my rigid superiors 
 that the world is indebted for all the pretty books which I 
 am writing. 
 
 I %vas generally exalted either for thinking or not 
 thinkiuy ; and as I am not aware of any medium between 
 the active and passive state of our minds (except dreaming, 
 which is still more unpardonable), the reader may suppose 
 that there is no exaggeration in my previous calculation of 
 one-third of my midshipman existence having been passed 
 away upon " the high and giddy mast." 
 
 " Mr. M ," would the first-lieutenant cry out 
 
 " why did you stay so long on shore with the jolly-boat?" 
 
 '• I went to the post-office for the officers' letters, sir." 
 
 '' And pray, sir^ who ordered you?" 
 
 " No one, sir ; but 1 thffiight " 
 
 " You thought, sir ! How dare you think ? — go up to 
 the mast-head, sir." 
 
 So much for thinking. 
 
 " Mr. M ," would he say at another time, when I 
 
 came on board, " did you call at the admiral's office ?" 
 
 " No, sir; I had no orders. I didn't think " 
 
 " Then why didnt you think, sir? up to the mast-head, 
 and stay there till I call you down." 
 
 So nuich for not thinking. Like the fable of the wolf 
 and the lamb, it was all the same ; bleat as I pleased, my 
 ilefence was useless, and- I could not avert my barbarous 
 doom. 
 
 To proceed : Captain L went over the side ; the 
 
 last pipe had been given, and the boatswain had returned 
 his call into his jacket-pocket, and walked forward, when 
 the first-lieutenant, in pursuance of his orders, looked up 
 aloft, intending to have hailed the new lord, and have
 
 OR^ THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 177 
 
 requested tlic pleasure of his company on deck ; but the 
 youngster, feeling a slight degreiJof appetite, after enjoying 
 the fresli air for seven hours witliout any breakfast, had 
 just ventured down the topmast rigging, that he might 
 obtain possession of a bottle of tea and some biscuit, which 
 one of his messmates had carried up for him, and stowed 
 away in the bunt of the maintopsail. Young Aveleyn, 
 who thought that the departure of the captain would 
 occupy tlie attention of the first-lieutenant, had just de- 
 scended to, and was placing his foot on the topsail-yard, 
 
 when Mr. W- looked up, and witnessed this act of 
 
 disobedience. As this v/as a fresh offence committed, he 
 thought himself warranted in not complying with the cap- 
 tain's mandate, and the boy was ordered up again, to 
 remain till sunset. " I Avould have called him down,' 
 
 muttered Mr. W , whose temper had been soured 
 
 from long disappointment ; " but since he 's a lord, he 
 shall have a good spell of it before he quits the service, 
 and then we shall not have his recommendation to others 
 in his own rank to come into it and interfere with our 
 promotion." 
 
 Now, it happened that Mr. W , who had an eye 
 
 like a hawk, when he cast his eyes aloft, observed that the 
 bunt of the main-topsail was not exactly so well stowed as 
 it ought to be on board of a man-of-war ; which is not to 
 be wondered at, when it is recollected that the midshipmen 
 had been very busy enlarging it to make a pantry. He 
 therefore turned the hands up, •' mend sails," and took his 
 station amidship on the booms, to see that this, the most 
 delinquent sail, was properly furled. — " Trice up — lay 
 out — All ready forward?" — "All ready, sir." — ''All 
 ready abaft ?" — " All ready, sir." — " Let fall." — Down 
 came the sails from the yards, and down also came the 
 bottle of tea and biscuit upon the face of the first-lieutenant, 
 who was looking up ; the former knocking out three of 
 his front teeth, besides splitting open both his hps and 
 chin. 
 
 Young Aveleyn, who witnessed the catastrophe, was 
 delighted , the other midshipmen on deck crowded round 
 their superior to oflFer their condoleraents, winking and 
 
 N
 
 178 NKWTOK I'ORSrtll ; 
 
 making faces at each other in by-play until the first-lieu- 
 tenant descended to his cabin^ Avhen they no longer re- 
 strained their mirth. 
 
 About an hour afterwards Mr. W reappeared with 
 
 his face bound up, and sumraoned all the young gentlemen 
 on deck, insisting upon being informed who it was who had 
 stowed away the bottle in the bunt of the sail; but mid- 
 shipmen have most treacherous memories, and not one. 
 of them knew any thing about it. As a last resource, 
 young Aveleyn was called down from the mast-head. 
 
 " Now, sir," said Mr. W , " either inform me di- 
 rectly who it was who stowed away the bottle aloft, or I 
 pledge you my word you shall be discharged from his 
 majesty's service to-morrow morning. Don't pretend to 
 say that you don't know — for you must." 
 
 ''' I do know," replied the youngster, boldly, " but I 
 never will tell." 
 
 " Then either you or I shall leave the service. " Mail 
 the first cutter ; " and when the boat was manned, the first- 
 lieutenant sent some papers on shore, which he had been 
 desired to do by the captain. 
 
 When the boat returned, the clerk was sent for, and de- 
 sired by Mr. W to make out Mr. Aveleyn's discharge,. 
 
 as the officers and jntiidshipmen thought (for Mr, W 
 
 had kept his secret), for his disobedient conduct. The 
 poor boy, who thought all his prospects blighted, was sent 
 on shore, the tears running down his cheeks, as much from 
 the applause and kmd larewells of his shipmates, as from 
 the idea of the degradation which he underwent. Now 
 the real culprit was young Malcolm, who, to oblige the 
 captain, had taken his station at the foretop-gallant mast- 
 head, because the dog Ponto thought proper to cut off his 
 own tail. The first-lieutenant, in his own woe, forgot 
 that of others; and it was not until nine o'clock at night, 
 that Malcolm, who thought that he had stayed up quite 
 long enough, ventured below, when he was informed of 
 what had taken place. 
 
 The youngster immediately penned a letter to the cap- 
 tain, acknowledging that he was the offender, and request- 
 ing that Mr. Aveleyn might not be discharged from the
 
 ORj TilE MERCHANT SERVICE. 179 
 
 service ; lie also ventured to add a ])ostscript, begging that 
 the same lenity might be extended towards himself ; which 
 letter was sent on shore by the captain's gig, when it left 
 the ship the next morning, and was received by Captain 
 
 L at the very same time that young Aveleyu. who had 
 
 not been sent on shore till late in the evening, called upon 
 the captain to request a reprieve from his liard sentence. 
 . The boy sent up his name, and»was immediately admitted. 
 
 " I presume you know why you are discharged from 
 the service ? " said Captain L , smiling benigiiantly. 
 
 " Yes, sir," replied the boy, holding his head down 
 submissively, " because of that accident — I 'm very 
 sorry, sir." 
 
 " Of course you must, and ought to be. Such heavy 
 blows are not common, and hard to bear. I presume you 
 go immediately to Buckhurst } " 
 
 " I suppose I must, sir; but 1 hope, Captani L , 
 
 that you '11 look over it." 
 
 '• I shall have very great pleasure in so doing,'' replied 
 Captain L ; I hear that it is " 
 
 " Thanky, sir, thanky," replied the youngster, inter- 
 rupting the captain. '' Then 1 may go on board again 
 and tell the first-lieutenant? " 
 
 " Tell the first-lieutenant what ? " cried Captain L , 
 
 perceiving some mistake. " Why, has not Mr. W 
 
 told you ? " 
 
 " Yts, ^r, he told me it was your orders that 1 should 
 be dismissed his majesty's service." 
 
 " Diecharged — not dismissed. And! presume he told 
 you why ; because your two elder brothers are dead ; and 
 you are now Lord Aveleyn." 
 
 " No, sir ! " cried the youngster, Avith astonishment ; 
 '•' because his three front teeth are knocked out with a 
 bottle of sculdcliops, and I would not peach who stowed it 
 away in the bunt of the sail." 
 
 " This is excessively strange ! '' replied Captain L . 
 
 " Do rae the favour to sit down, my lord ; the letters 
 from the ship Avill probably explain the affair." 
 
 There Avas, however, no explanation, except from young 
 JMalcolm. The captain read his letter, and put it into the 
 N .Q
 
 i 80 NEWTON FORSTEU ; 
 
 Iiands of Lord Aveleyn, who entered into a detail of the 
 ■whole. 
 
 " Captain L produced the letter from the trustees, 
 
 and, desiring his lordship to command him as to any funds 
 he might require, requested the pleasure of his company to 
 dinner. The boy, whose head wheeled with the sudden 
 change in his prospects, was glad to retire, having first 
 obtained permission to return on board with young Mal- 
 colm's pai'don, which had been most graciously acceded to. 
 To the astonishment of every body on board, young Ave- 
 leyn came alongside in the captain's own gig, when the 
 scene in the midshipmen's berth and the discomfiture of 
 the first-lieutenant may be imagined. 
 
 " You don't belong to the service, Frank," said the old 
 master's mate ; " and, as peer of the realm, coming on 
 board to visit the ship, you are entitled to a salute. Send 
 
 up and say you expect one, and then W must have 
 
 the guard up, and pay you proper respect. I '11 be hanged 
 if I don't take the message, if you consent to it." 
 
 But Lord Aveleyn had come on board to pay a debt of 
 gratitude, not to inflict mortification. He soon quitted the 
 ship, promising never to forget Malcolm ; and, unlike the 
 promises of most great men, it was fulfilled, and Malcolm 
 rose to be a captain from his own merit, backed by the ex- 
 ertions of his youthful patron. 
 
 For the next week the three mast-heads were so loaded 
 with midshipmen, that the boatswain proposed a preventer 
 backstay, that the top-masts might not go over the side ; 
 
 but shortly after Captain L , who was not pleased at 
 
 the falsehood which Mr. W had circulated, and who 
 
 had'iiiany other reasons for parting with him, succeeded in 
 having him appointed to another ship ; after which the 
 midshipmen walked up and down the quarter-deck with 
 their hands in their pockets, as before.
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 181 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 But Adeline determined Juan's wcddinp 
 
 In her own mind, and that 's enough tor woman ; 
 
 But then with whomV tliere was the safje Miss Redding, 
 
 Miss Raw, Miss l''law, Miss Showman, and Miss Knowraan, 
 
 And tlie two fair co-heiresses Giltbedding. 
 
 She deem'd his merits something more than common. 
 
 All these were unobjectionable matches, 
 
 And might go on, if well wound up, like watches. Byron. 
 
 The young Lord Aveleyn returned to the hall of his ances- 
 tors, exchanging the gloomy cockpit for the gay saloon, the 
 ship's allowance for sumptuous fare, the tyranny of his 
 mess -mates and the harshness of his superiors for adulation 
 and respect. AVas he happier ? No. In this world, whe- 
 ther in boyhood or riper years, the happiest state of exist- 
 ence is when under control. Although contrary to received 
 opinion, this is a fact; but I cannot now stop to demonstrate 
 the truth of the assertion. 
 
 Life may be compared to a gamut of music : there are 
 seven notes from our birth to our marriage, and thus may 
 we run up the first octave ; milk, sugar-plums, apples, 
 cricket, cravat, gun, horse; then comes the wife, a da capo 
 to a new existence, which is to continue until the whole 
 diapason is gone through. Lord Aveleyn ran up his scale 
 like others before him. 
 
 " Why do you not marry, my dear Frank ?" said the 
 dowager Lady Aveleyn, one day, when a thick fog debarred, 
 her son of his usual pastime. 
 
 '■ Why, mother, I have no objection to marry, and I 
 suppose I must one of these days, as a matter of duty ; 
 but I really am very difficult, and if I were to make a bad 
 choice, you kiiow a wife is not like this gun, which will 
 go off when I please." 
 
 " But still my dear Frank, there are many very eligible 
 matches to be made just now." 
 
 " I do not doubt it, madam ; but pray who are tney .-* " 
 
 " Why, Miss Riddlesworth." 
 
 " A very pretty girl, and I am told a large fortune. 
 But let me hear the others first." / 
 
 N 3
 
 182 WEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 " Clara Beauchamp^ well connected^ and a very sweet 
 girl." 
 
 " Granted also, for any thing I know to the contrary. 
 Have you more on your list ? " 
 
 " Certainly. Emily Riddlesdale ; not much fortune, 
 but very highly connected indeed. Her brother^ Lord 
 Riddlesdale is a man of great influence." 
 
 '^ Her want of money is no object, my dear mothei, 
 and the influence of her brother no inducement. I covet 
 neither. I grant you that she is a very nice girh Proceed." 
 
 " "Why, Frank, one would think that you were a sultan 
 with his handkerchief. There is Lady Selina Armstrong." 
 Well, she is a very fine girl, and talks well." 
 
 '' There is Harriet Butler, who has just come out." 
 
 " I saw her at the last ball we were at — a very pretty 
 creature." 
 
 "^ Lady Jemima Calthorpe." 
 
 " Not very good-looking, but clever and agreeable." 
 
 " There is Louisa Manners, who is very much admired." 
 
 "^ I admire her very much myself." 
 
 " Well, Frank, you have exhausted my catalogue. 
 There is not one I have mentioned who is not unexception- 
 able, and whom I would gladly embrace as a daughter-in- 
 law. You are now turned of forty, my dear son, and 
 must make up your mind to have heirs to the title and es- 
 tates. I am however afraid that your admiration is so 
 general, that you will be puzzled in your choice." 
 
 " I will confess to you, my dearest mother, that I have 
 many years thought of the necessity of taking to myself a 
 Avife, but have never yet had courage to decide. I admit 
 that if all the young women you have mentioned were 
 what they appear to be, a man need not long hesitate in 
 his choice ; but the great difficulty is, that their real tem- 
 pers and dispositions are not to be ascertained till it is too' 
 late. Allow that I should attempt to discover the peculiar 
 disposition of every one of them, what would be the con- 
 sequence ? — that my attentions would be perceived. I 
 do not exactly mean to accuse them of deceit ; but a woman 
 is naturally flattered by perceiving herself an object of at- 
 traction ; and, when flattered, is pleased. It i^ not likely,
 
 OR, THE WEHCHANT SEIIVTCE. 183 
 
 therefore, that the infirmities of her temper (if she have 
 any) should be discovered by a man whose presence is a 
 source of gratification. If artful, she will conceal her 
 faults; if not so there will be no occasion to bring them to 
 light. And even if, after a long courtship, something wrong- 
 should be discovered, either you have proceeded too far in 
 honour to retract, or are so blinded by your own feelings 
 as to extenuate it. Now it is only the parents and near 
 relations of a young woman who can be witnesses to her 
 real character, imless it be indeed her own maid, whom 
 one could not condescend to interrogate." 
 
 " That is all very true, Frank ; but recollect the same 
 observations apply to your sex as well as ours. Lovers 
 and husbands are very different beings. It is quite a lot- 
 tery on both sides " 
 
 " I agree with you, ray dear mother ; and as marry I 
 must, so shall it be a lottery with me ; I will leave it to 
 chance, and not to myself: then, if I am unfortunate, I 
 will blame my stars and not have to accuse my^ielf of a 
 Avant of proper discrimination." Lord Aveleyn took up 
 a sheet of paper, and dividing it into small slips, wrote 
 upon them the names of the different young ladies proposed 
 by his mother. Folding them up, he threw them on the 
 table before her, and requested that she would select any 
 one of the papers. 
 
 The dowager took up one. 
 
 " I thank you, madam," said Lord Aveleyn, taking the 
 paper from her hand, and opening it — * Louisa Manners.' 
 Well, then, Louisa INIanners it shall be ; always provided 
 that she does not refuse me. I will make my first ad- 
 vances this very afternoon; that is, if it does not clear up, 
 and I can take out the pointers." 
 
 " You surely are joking, Frank ? " 
 
 " 2'^ever was more serious. I have my mother's re- 
 commendation, backed by fate. Marry I must, but choose 
 I will not. I feel myself desperately in love with the fair 
 Louisa already. I Avill report my progress to you, my 
 dear madam, in less than a fortnight." 
 
 Lord Aveleyn adhered to his singular resolution, courted, 
 and was accepted. He never had reason to repent his 
 N 4
 
 184 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 choice ; who proved to he as amiable as her countenance 
 would have indicated. The fruits of his marriage was 
 one son, who Xvas watched over with mingled pride and 
 anxiety, and who had now arrived at the age of fifteen 
 years. 
 
 Such was the history of Lord Aveleyn, who continued 
 to extend his friendship to Edward Forster, and if he had 
 required it, \vould gladly have proffered his assistance, in 
 return for the kindness which Forster had shown towards 
 him when he Avas a midshipman. The circumstances 
 connected with the history of the little Amber were known 
 to Lord Aveleyn and his lady, and the wish of Forster, 
 that his little charge should derive the advantage of mixing 
 in good female society, was gladly acceded to, both on his 
 account and on her own. Amber would often remain for 
 days at the mansion, and was a general favourite, as well 
 as an object of sympathy. 
 
 But the growth of their son, too rapid for his years, and 
 which brought with it symptoms of pulmonary disease, 
 alarmed Lord and Lady Aveleyn ; and by the advice of 
 the physicians, they broke up their establishment, and 
 hastened with him to Madeira, to re-establish his health. 
 Tlieir departure was deeply felt both by Forster and his 
 charge ; and before they could recover from the loss, 
 another severe trial awaited them in the death of Mrs. 
 Beazeley, Avho, full of years and rheumatism, was gathered 
 to her fathers. Forster, habituated as he was to the old 
 lady, felt her loss severely ; he was now with Amber, 
 quite alone ; and it so happened that in the following 
 winter his wound broke out, and confined him to his bed 
 until the spring. 
 
 As he lay in a precarious state, the thought naturally 
 occurred to him, " What will become of this poor child if 
 I am called away ? There is not the slightest provision 
 for her : she has no friends; and I have not even made it 
 known to any of my own that there is such a person in 
 existence." Edward Forster thought of his brother, the 
 lawyer, whom he knew still to be flourishing, although he 
 had never corresponded with him, and resolved that as 
 soon as he was able to undertake the journey, he would go
 
 OR, THE MEROHANT SERVICi;. 185 
 
 to town, and secure his interest for the little Amber, in 
 case of any accident happening to himself. 
 
 The spring and summer passed away before he found 
 himself strong enough to undertake the journey. It was 
 late in the autumn that Edward Forster and Amber took 
 their places in a heavy coach for the metroi)olis, and 
 arrived without accident on the day or two subsequent to 
 that on which Nicholas and Newton had entered it on 
 foot. 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 Tlirougli coaclics, drays, choked tuminkes, and a wliiil 
 
 Of wheels, and roar of voices, and confif'-jn. 
 Here taverns wooing to a pint of" purl," 
 
 There mails fast flying off, /ike a delusit.i. 
 
 Through this, and much and moVc, is the approach 
 
 Of travellers to mighty Babylon ; 
 Whether tlioy come hy horse, or chair, or coach. 
 
 With slight exceptions, all the ways seem one. BvKO.N. 
 
 When Newton Forster and his father arrived at London, 
 they put up at an obscure inn in the Borough. The next 
 day Newton set off to discover the residence of his uncle. 
 The people of the inn had recommended him to apply to 
 some stationer or bookseller^ who would allow him to look 
 over a red-book ; and in compliance with these instructions, 
 Newton stopped at a shop in Fleet-street, on the doors of 
 which was written in large gilt letters — " Law Bookseller." 
 The young men in the shop were very civil and obliging, 
 and, without referring to the Guide, immediately told him 
 the residence of a man so well known as his uncle ', and 
 Newton hastened in the direction pointed out. 
 
 It was one of those melancholy days in which London 
 wears the appearance of a huge scavenger's cart. A lurid 
 fog and mizzling rain, which had been incessant for the 
 previous twenty-four hours ; sloppy pavements, and ken- 
 nels down whic!i the muddy torrents hastened to precipi-
 
 180 NEVVTON FOUSTER ; 
 
 tate themselves in tiie sewers below ; armies of umbrellas, 
 as far as the eye could reach, now rising, now lowering, to 
 avoid collision ; hackney-coaches in active sloth, their 
 miserable cattle plodding along with their backs arched 
 and heads and tails drooping like barn-door fowls crouching 
 under the cataract of a gutter ; clacking of pattens and 
 j)estering of sweepers ; not a smile upon the countenance 
 of one indivitlual of the multitude which passed him ; — 
 all appeared anxiety, bustle, and selfishness. Newton was 
 not sorry when he turned down the narrow court which 
 had been indicated to him, and, disengaged from tlie 
 throng of men, commenced a more rapid course. In two 
 minutes he was at the door of his uncle's chambers, which, 
 notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, stood wide 
 open, as if there should be no obstacle in a man's way, or 
 a single moment for reflection allowed him, if he wished 
 to entangle himself in the expenses and difficulties of the 
 law. Newton furled his weeping umbrella, and first 
 looking with astonishment at the mud which had accumu- 
 lated above the calves of his legs, raised his eyes to tlie 
 jambs on each side, where in large letters he read at the 
 head of a long list of occupants, " Mr. Forster, Ground 
 Floor." A door with Mr. Forster's name on it, within a 
 feiv feet of him, next caught his eye. He knocked, and 
 was admitted by the clerk, who stated that his master was 
 at a consultation, but was expected back in half an hour, 
 if he could wait so long. Newton assented, and v/n:; 
 ushered into the parlour, where the clerk presented th 
 newspaper of the clay to amuse him until the arrival of his 
 uncle. 
 
 As soon as the door was closed Newton's curiosity as to 
 the character of his uncle induced him to scrutinise tlie 
 apartment a^d its contents. In the centre of the room, 
 which might have been about fourteen feet square, stood a 
 table, with a shadow lamp placed before the only part of 
 it which was left vacant for the use of the pen. The re- 
 mainder of the space was loaded with parchment upon 
 parchment, deed upon deed, paper upon paper. Some, 
 especially those underneath, had become dark and dis- 
 coloured by time ; the irik had changed to a dull red, and
 
 Oli, TUB BIKKCHANT SERVICE. 1 87 
 
 the imprint of many a thumb inferred how many years 
 they had been in existence, and how long they had lain 
 as sad mementos of the law's delay. Others were fresh 
 and clean, the japanned ink in strong contrast with tlie 
 glossy parchment, new cases of litigation fresh as the 
 hopes of those who had been persuaded by flattering 
 assurances to enter into a labyrinth of vexation, from 
 which, perhaps, not to be extricated until these documents 
 should assume the hue of the ethers, which silently indi- 
 cated the blighted hopes of protracted litigation. Two 
 massive iron chests occupied the walls on each side of the 
 fireplace; .and round the whole area of the room were 
 piled one upon another large tin boxes, on v^hich, in legible 
 Roman characters, Avera written the names of the parties 
 whose. property was thus immured. There they stood like 
 so many sepulchres of happiness, mausoleums raised over 
 departed competence, while the names of the parties in- 
 scribed appeared as so many registers of the folly and con- 
 tention of man. 
 
 But from all this Xewtcn could draw no other conclusion 
 than that his uncle had plenty of business. The tire in 
 the grate was on so small a scale, that although he sliivered 
 with wet and cold, Nev.'ton was afraid to stir it, lest it 
 should go out altogether. From this circumstance he drew 
 a hasty and unsatisfactory conclusion that his uncle was 
 not very partial to spending his money. 
 
 But he hardly had time to drav/ these inferences and 
 then take up the newspaper, when the door opened, and 
 another party was ushered into the room by the clerk, av ho 
 infonned him, as he handed a chair, that Mr. Forster 
 would return in a few minutes. 
 
 The personage thus introduced was a short young man, 
 with a round face, bushy eyebrows, and dogged counte- 
 nance, implying wilfulness, without ill-nature. As soon 
 as he entered he proceeded to divest his throat of a large 
 shav,-l, which he hung over the back of a chair ; then dof- 
 fing his great-coat, which was placed in a similar position, 
 he rubbed his hands, and walked up to the fire, into which 
 he insinuated the poker, and immediately destroyed the 
 small symptoms of combustion v^hich remained, reducing 
 the whole to one chaos of smoke.
 
 1 88 NEWTON FORSTEK ; 
 
 " Better have left it alone, I believe," observed he, re- 
 inserting the poker, and again stirring up the black mass, 
 for the fire was now virtually defunct. 
 
 " You 're not cold, I hope, sir ? " said the party, turning 
 to Newton. 
 
 " No, sir, not very," replied Newton, good-humouredly. 
 
 " I thought so ; clients never are ; nothing like law for 
 keeping you warm, sir. Always bring on your cause in 
 the winter months. I do, if I can, for it 's positive suffo- 
 cation in the dog-days !" 
 
 '' I really never was at law," replied Newton, laughing; 
 '• but if ever I have the misfortune, I shall recollect your 
 advice." 
 
 " Never was at law ! I was going to say, what the 
 devil brings you here ? but that would have been an im- 
 pertinent question. — Well, sir, do you know there was a 
 time at wliich I never knew what law was," continued the 
 young man, seating himself in a chair opposite to Newton. 
 "It was many years ago, when I v.'as a younger brother 
 and had no property: no one took the trouble to go to law 
 with me ; for if they gained their cause there were no 
 effects. ^Fithin the last six years I have inherited a con- 
 siderable property, and am always in hot water. I heard 
 that the lawyers say, ' causes produce effects.' I am sure 
 I can say that 'effects have produced causes!'" 
 
 " I am sorry tliat your good fortune should be coupled 
 nith such a drawback." 
 
 " Oh, it's nothing ! It's just to a man wha^ clog is 
 to a horse in a field, you know pretty well wheWlta find 
 him. I'm so used to it- — indeed so mucli so^^mat I 
 should feel rather uncomfortable if I had nothing on my 
 hands; just keeps me from being idle. I've been into 
 every court in the metropolis, and have no fault to find 
 with one of them, except the Court of R ts." 
 
 " And pray, sir, what is that Court, and the objection 
 you have to it .'^" " 
 
 " Why, as to the Court, it 's the most confounded 
 ras — ; but I must be careful how I speak before strangers, 
 you j^U excuse me, sir (not that I suspect you, but I know 
 what may be considered as a libel). I shall therefore just
 
 OK, THE MEHCIIANT SERVICE. 189 
 
 state, that it is a court at vvhicli no gentleman can a]>pcar; 
 and if he does, it 's of no use, for he 'II never get a \ erdict 
 in his favour." 
 
 " What, then it is not a court of justice? " 
 " Court of justice! no, it's a court for the recovery of 
 small debts: but I 'II just tell you, sir, exactly what took 
 place with me in that court, and then you will be able to 
 judge for yourself. I had a dog ; sir, it was just after I 
 came into my property ; his name was Ca?sar, and a very 
 good dog he was. Well, sir, riding out one day about four 
 miles from town, a rabbit put his nose out of a cellar, where 
 they retailed potatoes. Caesar pounced upon him, and the 
 rabbit was dead in a moment. The man who owned the 
 rabbit and the potatoes, came up to me and asked my nanle, 
 which I told him ; at the same time, I expressed my 
 sorrow at the accident, and advised him in future to keep 
 his rabbits in hutches. He said he would, and demanded 
 three shillings and sixpence for the one which the dog had 
 killed. Now, although he was welcome to advice, money 
 was quite another thing ; so he went one way, muttering 
 something about law, and I another, with Ciesar at my - 
 heels, taking no notice of his threat. Well, sir, in a few 
 days my servant came up to say that somebody wished to 
 see me upon particular business, and I ordered him to be 
 shown up. It was a blackguard-looking fellow^ who put 
 a piece of dirty paper in my hand ; summoned me to ap- 
 pear at some dog-hole or another, 1 forget where. No^ 
 understanding the business, I enclosed it to a legal friend. 
 who returned an answer, that it was a summons to the 
 
 Court of 11 ts ; that no gentleman could go there ; 
 
 and that I had better let the thing take its course. I had 
 forgotten all about it, when, in a few days, a piece of paper 
 was brought to me, by which I found that the Court ad- 
 judged me to pay II. 2s. 6d., for damages and costs. I 
 asked who brought it, and was told it was the son of the 
 potato-merchant, accompanied by a tipstaff. I requested 
 the pleasure of their company, and asked the legal gentle- 
 man what it was for. 
 
 " ' Eighteen shillings, for ten rabbits destroyed by your 
 dog, and 4:s. 6d. for costs of court.'
 
 190 .NEWKt.^j vuusTiat ; 
 
 " "^ Ten rabbits I ' exclaimed I ; ' why he only killed one. 
 
 '* ' Yes, sir,' squeaked out the young potato-merchant ; 
 but it v/as a doe rabbit, in the family way ; we counted nine 
 young ones, all killed too ! ' 
 
 " ' Shameful ! ' replied I. ' Pray, sir, did your father 
 tell the Court that the rabbits were not born ? ' 
 
 " ' No, sir ; father only said that there was one doe 
 rabbit and nine little ones killed. He asked As. 6d. for the 
 old one, but only Is. 6d. a-piece for the young ones.' 
 
 " ' You should have been there yourself;, sir,' observed 
 the tipstaff. 
 
 " I wish Ctesar had left the rabbit alone. So it appears,' 
 replied I, ' he only asked 3s. 6d. at first ; but by -this 
 Cesarean operation, I am nineteen shillings out of pocket. 
 — Now, sir, what do you think of that? " 
 
 " I think that you should exclaim against the dishonesty 
 of the potato-merchant, rather than the judgment of the 
 Court. Had you defended your own cause, you might 
 have had justice." 
 
 " I don't know that. A man makes a claim against 
 another, and takes his oath to it ; you must then either 
 disprove it, or pay the sum ; your own oath is of no avail 
 against his. I called upon my legal friend, and told him 
 how I had been treated, and he then narrated the following 
 circumstance, which will explain v/hat I mean : — 
 
 '•' ' He told me that he never knew of but one instance in 
 which a respectable person had gained his cause, and in 
 which, he was ashamed to say, that he was a party impli- 
 cated. The means resorted to were as follows : — A Jew 
 upholsterer sent in a bill to a relation of his for a chest of 
 drawers, which had never been purchased or received. Re- 
 fusing to pay, he was summoned to the Court of R s 
 
 Not knowing how to act, he applied to my informant, who, 
 being under some obligations to his relative, did not like to 
 refuse. 
 
 " ' I am afraid that you '11 have to pay,' said the attor- 
 ney to his relation, when he heard the story. 
 
 " * But I never had them, I can swear to it.' 
 
 " ' That's of no consequence; he will bring men to 
 swear to the delivery. There are hundreds about tile
 
 OR, THE jMKKCHANT SERVICE. 'l<)\ 
 
 Court Avho arc ready to take any oath, at lialf-a-crown a 
 head; and that will be sufficient. But, to oblige you, I '11 
 see what 1 can do.' 
 
 " They parted, and in a day or two my legal acquaint- 
 ance called upon his relation, and told him that he had 
 gained his cause. ' Rather at the expense of my conscience, 
 I must acknowledge,' continued he ; ' but one must fight 
 these scoundrels with their own weapons.' " 
 
 " ' Well, and how was it?'' inquired the other. 
 
 " ' Why, as I prophesied, he brought three men forward, 
 who swore to the delivery of the goods. Aware that this 
 tvould be the case, I had provided three others, who swore 
 to their having been witness to the payment of the hill ! 
 This he was not prepared for ; and the vei'dict was given in 
 your favour.' " 
 
 " Is it possible," exclaimed Newton, " that such a court 
 of Belial can exist in England ? '' 
 
 " Even so ; and, as there is no appeal, pray keep out 
 of it. For my " 
 
 But here the conversation was interrupted by the en- 
 trance of Mr.'John Foister, who had returned from his 
 consultation. 
 
 We have already described Mr. John Forster's character; 
 we have now only to introduce his person. Mr. John For- 
 ster was about the middle height, rather inclined to corpu- 
 lency, but with great shov/ of muscular strength. His 
 black nether garments and silk stockings, fitted a leg which 
 might have been envied by a porter, and his breadth of 
 shoulder was extreme. He had a slouch, probably con- 
 tracted by long pouring over the desk : and his address was 
 as abrupt as his appearance was unpolished. His forehead 
 w^as large and bald, e3'e small and brilliant, and his cheeks 
 had dropped down so as to increase the width of his lower 
 jaw. Deep, yet not harsh, hues were imprinted on the 
 whole of his countenance, which indicated inflexibility and 
 self-possession. 
 
 " Good morning, gentlemen," said he, as he entered the 
 room ; " I ' ■»!ie you have not been Waiting long. May I 
 request the pieasure of knowing who came first } ' First 
 come, first served,' is an old niotto."
 
 1^2 NKWTON FOUSTER ; 
 
 " I beliei^e this gentleman came first,'' replied the young 
 man. 
 
 " Don't you know, sir ? Is it only a believe ? " 
 
 " I did arrive frrst, sir," replied Newton ; " but as I 
 am not here upon legal business, I bad rather wait until 
 this gentleman has spoken to you." 
 
 " Not upon legal business — humph ! " replied Mr. 
 Forster, eyeing Newton. " Well, then, if that is the 
 case, do me the favour to sit down in the ofSce until I 
 have communicated with this gentleman." 
 
 Newton, taking up his hat, walked out of the door, 
 which was opened by Mr. Forster, and sat down in the 
 next room until he should be summoned. Although the 
 door between them was closed, it was easy to hear the 
 sound of the voices within. For some minutes they fell 
 upon Newton's ears ; that of the young man like the loud 
 yelping of a cur ; that of his uncle like the surly growl of 
 some ferocious heast. At last the door opened : — 
 
 " But, sir," cried the young man, in alto. 
 
 " Pay, sir, jxn/ ! I tell you pay ! " answered the lawyer, 
 in a stentorian voice. 
 
 " But he has cheated me, sir ! '" 
 
 " Never mind — pay ! " 
 
 '' Charged twice their value, sir ! " 
 
 " I tell you, pay ! " 
 
 " But, sir, such imposition ! "' 
 
 " I have told you twenty times, sir, and now tell you 
 again — and for the last time — pay! " 
 
 " Won't you take up my cause, sir, tlien ? " 
 
 " No, sir ! I have given you advice, and will not pick 
 your pocket ! — Good morning, sir ; " and Mr. Forster, 
 who had backed his client out of the room, shut the door 
 in his face, to prevent further discussion. 
 
 The young man looked a moment at the door after it 
 was closed, and then turned round to Newton. 
 
 " If yours is really law business, take my advice, don't 
 stay to see him ; I '11 take you to a man who is a lawyer. 
 Here you 'U get no law at all." 
 
 " Thankye," replied Newton, laughing, " but mine 
 really is not law business."
 
 OBj THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 1 (>'3 
 
 The noise of the handle of the door indicated that Mr. 
 Forster was about to reopen it, to summon Newton ; and 
 the young man, with a hasty good morning, brushed by 
 Newton, and hastened into the street. 
 
 CHAPTER XI. 
 
 Jia7»lcl. Is not parchment made of sheepskin ? 
 Horntu). Ay, my lord, and of calves' skins too. 
 Hamld. 'I'liey are sheep and calves which 
 
 Seek out their assurance in that — Shakspeaue. 
 
 The door opened, as intimated at the end of our last chap- 
 ter, and Newton obeyed the injunction from the lawyer's 
 eye to follow him into the room. 
 
 " Now, sir, your pleasure ? " said Mr. Forster. 
 
 " I must introduce myself," replied Newton : '^ I am 
 your nephew, Newton Forster." 
 
 " Humph ! where 's your documents in proof of your 
 assertion .'' " 
 
 " I did not consider that any thing further than my 
 word was necessary. I am the son of your brother, 
 Nicholas Forster, who resided many years at Overton." 
 
 '^ I never heard of Overton : Nicholas I recollect to have 
 been the name of my third brother ; but it is upwards of 
 thirty years since I have seen or heard of him. 1 did not 
 know whether he was alive or dead. VTell, for the sake 
 of argument, we'll allow that you are my nephew — what 
 then .? " 
 
 Newton coloured up at this peculiar reception. "What 
 then, uncle? — why I did hope that you would have been 
 glad to have seen me ; but as you appear to be otherwise, 
 I will wish you good morning ; " — and Newton moved 
 towards the door. 
 
 " Stop, young man ; I presume that you did not come 
 for nothing ? Before you go, tell me what you came for." 
 
 " To tell you the truth," replied Newton, with emotion, 
 
 " It was to ask your assistance and your advice ; but * 
 
 o
 
 X94 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 " But jumping up in a huff is not the way to obtam 
 either. Sit down on that chair^ and tell me what you 
 came for." 
 
 " To request you would interest yourself in behalf of 
 my father and myself; we are both out of employ, and 
 require your assistance." 
 
 " Or probably I never should have seen you ! " 
 
 " Most probably : we knew that you were in good cir- 
 cumstances^ and thriving in the world ; and as long as we 
 could support ourselves honestly, should not have thrust 
 ourselves upon you. All we wish now is that you will, by 
 your interest and recommendation, put us in the way of 
 being again independent by our own exertions; which we 
 did not consider too much to ask from a brother, and an 
 uncle.'* 
 
 '^ Humph ! — so first you keep aloof from me, because 
 you knew that I was able to assist you, and now you come 
 to me for the same reason ! " 
 
 " Had we received the least intimation from you that 
 our presence would have been welcome, you would have 
 seen us before." 
 
 " Perhaps so ; but I did not know whether I had any 
 relations alive." 
 
 " Had I been in your circumstanceSj uncle^, I should 
 have inquired." 
 
 " Humph ! " — Well, young man, as I find that I have 
 relations, I should like to hear a little about them; — so 
 now tell me all about your father and yourself." 
 
 Newton entered into a detail of the circumstances, with 
 which the reader is already acquainted. When he had 
 finished, his uncloj who had listened with profound atten- 
 tion, his eye fixed upon that of Newton, as if to read his 
 inmost thoughts, said, '' It appears, then, that your father 
 wishes to prosecute his business as optician. I am afraid 
 that I cannot help him. I wear spectacles certainly when 
 1 read ; but this pair has lasted me elevai years, and pro- 
 bably wili as many more. You wish me to procure you a 
 situation in an East Indiaman as third or fourth mate. I 
 know not'iing about the sea; I never saw it in my life; 
 nor am I aware that I have a sailor in my acquaintance."
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 195 
 
 "■ Then, uncle, I will take my leave." 
 
 " Nc't so fast, young man ; you said that you wanted 
 my assistance and my advice. My assistance I cannot 
 promise you for the reasons I have stated; but my advice 
 is at your service. Is it a legal point? " 
 
 " Not exactly, sir," replied Newton, who was mortified 
 almost to tears ; " stiU I must acknowledge that I now 
 more than ever wish that the articles were in safe keeping, 
 and out of my hands." Newton then entered into a detai^ 
 of the trunk being picked up at sea ; and stated his having 
 brought with him the most valuable of the property, that it 
 might be deposited in safe hands. 
 
 " Humph ! " observed his uncle, when he had finished. 
 " You say that the articles are of value." 
 
 '•' 'i'hose who are judges consider the diamonds and the 
 other articles to be worth nearly one hundred pounds ; 1 
 cannot pretend to say what their real value is." 
 
 '^ And you have had these things in your possession 
 these seven years } " 
 
 " I have, sir." 
 
 * Did it never occur to you, since you have been in 
 uistress, that the sale of these articles would have assisted 
 \viu ? " 
 
 •'' It often has occurred to me, when I have found that 
 tbe little 1 could earn was not sufficient for my father's 
 support ; but we had already decided that the property was 
 iiot legally mine, and I dismissed the idea as soon as I could 
 Irom my thoughts. Since then I have ascertained to whom 
 the property belongs, and of course it has become more 
 sacred." 
 
 " You said a minute ago that you noAV more than ever 
 wished the property in safe keeping. Wh^ so } " 
 
 " Because, disappointed in the hopes I had entertained of 
 receiving your assistance, I foresaw that we should have 
 more difficulties than ever to struggle against, and wished 
 not to be in the way of temptation." 
 
 " You were right. Well,, tlien bring me those articles 
 
 to-morrow, by one o'clock precisely ; 1 will take charge of 
 
 them, and give you a receipt. Good morning, nephew ; 
 
 very happy to have had the pleasure of making your ac- 
 
 2
 
 J 96 NEWTON FORSTER j 
 
 quaintancc. Remember me kindly to my brother, and tell 
 him I shall be happy to see him at one, precisely." 
 
 "Good morning, sir," replied Newton, with a faltering 
 voice, as he hurried away to conceal his disappointment 
 and indignation, which he felt at this cool reception and 
 dismissal. 
 
 " Not legally mine — humph ! I like that boy," mut- 
 tered the old lawyer to himself, when Newton had (lis •■ 
 appeared. — " Scratton ! " 
 
 '•' Yes, sir," replied the clerk, opening the door. 
 
 " Fill up a check for five hundred pounds, self or bearer, 
 and bring it to me to sign." 
 
 " Yes, sir." 
 
 *' Is it this evening or to-morrow, that I attend the 
 arbitration meeting .'' " 
 
 " This evening, seven o'clock." 
 
 " What is the name of the party by whom I am em- 
 ployed } " 
 
 " Bosanquet, sir." 
 
 " East India director, is he not t " 
 
 " Yes, sir." 
 
 " Humph ! — That will do." 
 
 The clerk brought in the draft, which was put into his 
 pocket-book without being signed ; his coat was then 
 buttoned up, and Mr. John Forster repaired to the chop, 
 house, at which for twenty-five years he had seldom failed 
 10 make his appearance at the hour of three or four at the 
 latest. 
 
 It was with a heavy heart that Newton returned to the 
 inn in the Borough, at which he left his father, whom he 
 found looking out of window, precisely in the same Beat 
 and position where he had left him. 
 
 " Well, Newton, my boy, did you see my brother ? " 
 
 " Yes, sir ; but I am sorry to say that I have little 
 hopes of his being of service to us." 
 
 Newton then entered into a narration of what had 
 passed. 
 
 " Why really, Newton," said his father in his single- 
 heartedness, '^ I do not see such cause of despair. If he 
 did doubt your being his nephew, how could he tell that
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 197 
 
 you were ? and if he had no interest with naval people 
 why it 's not his fault. As for my expecting him to break 
 his spectacles on purpose to buy new ones of me, that 's too 
 much, and it would be foolish on his part. He said that he 
 was very happy to have made your acquaintance, and that 
 he should be glad to see me. T really don't know what 
 more you could expect. I will call upon him to-morrow, 
 since he wishes it. At five o'clock precisely, don't you 
 say ? " 
 
 " No, sir, at one." 
 
 " Well, then, at one ; those who have nothing to do 
 must suit their hours to those who are full of business. 
 Recollect now, two o'clock precisely." 
 
 " One o'clock, sir." 
 
 " Ay, very true, one o'clock I meant ; now let 's go to 
 dinner.'' 
 
 Nicholas Forster appeared in excellent spirits : and 
 Newton,' who did not like to undeceive him, was glad to 
 retire at an early hour, that he might be left to his own re- 
 flections, and form some plan as to their proceedings in 
 consequence of this unexpected disappointment. 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 Now, by two-headed Janus, 
 Nature hath framed strange fellows in her time ; 
 Some that will ever more pctp through their eyes, 
 And laugli like parrots at a bagpiper; 
 And others of such vinegar aspect. 
 That they'll not show their teeth in way of smile. 
 Though Nestor swear the jest be laughable. Siiakspeaue. 
 
 The next forenoon Nicholas and his son left the inn in 
 good time to keep their appointment. The weather had 
 changed, and the streets through which they passed were 
 crowded with people who had taken advantage of the fine 
 weather to prosecute business which had admitted of being 
 postponed. Nicholas, who stared every way except the 
 right, received many shoves and pushes, at which he ex^ 
 o 3
 
 •'1 98 NEWTON FORSTER , 
 
 postulated, without the parties taking even the trouble to 
 look behind them as they continued their course. Tliis 
 conduct produced a fit of reverie, out of which he was soon 
 roused by another blow on the shoulder, which would twist 
 him half round ; and thus he Continued in an alternate 
 state of reverie and excitement, until he was dragged by 
 Newton to his brother's chambers. The clei-k, who had 
 been ordered to admit them, opened the parloui"-door, 
 where they found Mr. John Forster, sitting at his table, 
 with his spectacles on, running through a brief. 
 
 " Your servant, young man. — Nicholas Forster, I pre- 
 sume,"' said he, taking his eyes off the brief, and looking at 
 Forster without rising from his chair — " How do ye do, 
 brother ? " 
 
 '^ Are you my brother John ? " interrogated Nicholas. 
 
 "■ I am John Forster," replied the lawyer. 
 
 " 'Well, then, I am really very glad to see you, brother,"' 
 said Nicholas, extending his hand, which was taken with a 
 'humph ! ' — (A minute's pause.) 
 
 " Young man, you 're ten minutes past your time," 
 said John, turning to Newton. " I told you one 6 clock 
 precisely.''' 
 
 " I am afraid so," replied Newton ; but the streets were 
 crowded, and my father stopped several times.'' 
 
 " Wliy did he stop } " 
 
 " To expostulate with those who elbowed him : he is 
 not used to it." 
 
 " He soon will be, if he stays here long. — Brother 
 Nicholas," said Forster, turning round, but perceiving that 
 Nicholas had taken up his watch, and was examining the 
 interior, his intended remark was changed. " Brother Ni- 
 cholas, what are you doing with my watch ? " 
 
 " It's very dirty," replied Nicholas, continuing Iws ex- 
 amination ; " it mu&t be taken to pieces." 
 
 " Indeed it shall not," replied John. 
 
 " Don't be alarmed, I'll do it myself, and charge you 
 nothing." 
 
 "Indeed you will not doit yourself, brother. My watch 
 goes very well, whert it 's left alone. — Do me the favour 
 to hand it to me."
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICi:. 199 
 
 Nicholas shut up the watcli, and handed it to his 
 brother over the table. " It ought not to go well in that 
 state, brother." 
 
 " But 1 tell you that it does, brotlier," replied John, 
 putting the watch into his fob. 
 
 " I have brought the things that I mentioned, sir," said 
 Newton, taking them out of his handkerchief. 
 
 " Very well, have you the inventory ? " 
 
 " Yes, sir, here it is." 
 
 " No. 1. a diamond ring." 
 
 "No. 2. " 
 
 " I should rather think that they were No. 3," observed 
 Nicholas, who had taken up his brother's spectacles. 
 " You 're not vei-y short-sighted, brother." 
 
 " I am not, brother Nicholas ; — will you oblige me by 
 giving me my spectacles.'' " 
 
 " Yes, I '11 wipe them for you first,'' said Nicholas, 
 commencing his polish with an old cotton handkerchief. 
 
 " Thanky, thanky, brother, that will do," replied John, 
 holding out his hand for the spectacles, which he imme- 
 diately put in the case and conveyed into his pocket. The 
 lawyer then continued the inventory. 
 
 " It is all riglit, young man ; and I will sign a receipt." 
 
 The receipt was signed, and the articles deposited in the 
 iron chest. " Now, brother Nicholas, I have no time to 
 spare ; have you any thing to say to me.'' " 
 
 "^ No," replied Nicholas, starting up. 
 
 " Well, then, I have something to say to you. In the 
 first place, I cannot help you in your profession (as I told 
 my nephew yesterday), neither can I afford you any time, 
 which is precious; so good bye, brother. Here is some- 
 thing for you to read, when you go home. John Forster 
 took out his pocket-book, and gave him a sealed letter. 
 
 " Nephew, although I never saw the sea, or knew a 
 sailor in my life, yet the law pervades every where. An 
 East India Director, who is under obligations to me, has 
 promised a situation for you as third-mate on board of 
 the Bombay Castle. Here is his address ; call upon him, 
 and all will be arranged. You may come here again before 
 o 4
 
 200 NEWTON FORSTEH ; 
 
 you sail ; and I expect you will make proper arranf^ements 
 for your father^ who, if I can judge from what I have al- 
 ready seen, will lose that paper I have given him, which 
 contains what is not to be picked up every day." Nicholas 
 w^as in a deep reverie ; the letter had dropped from his 
 hand, and had fallen, unnoticed Iry him, on the carpet. 
 Newton picked it up, and, without Nicholas observing him, 
 put it into his own pocket. '^ Now, good bye, nephew , 
 take away my brother, pray. It 's a good thing, I can tell 
 you, sometimes to find out an uncle." 
 
 *' I trust my conduct will prove me deserving of your 
 kindness," replied Newton, who was overjoyed at the un- 
 expected issue of the meeting. 
 
 " I hope it will, young man. Good morning. Now, 
 take away your father, I 'm busy ; " and old Forster pulled 
 out his spectacles, and recommenced his brief. 
 
 Newton went up to his father, touched him on the 
 shoulder, and said in a low tone, and nodding his head 
 towards the door — " Come, father." 
 
 " Nicholas got upon his legs, retreated a few steps, then 
 turned round — " Brother, didn't you say something about 
 a letter I was to put in the post ? " 
 
 . " No, I didn't, replied John, shortly, not raising his 
 eyes from the brief. 
 
 " Well, I really thought 1 heard something " 
 
 " Come, father ; my uncle's busy." 
 
 " Well, then, good bye, brother." 
 
 " Good bye," replied John, without looking up ; and 
 Newton, with his father, quitted the room. 
 
 No conversation passed during the walk to the inn, ex- 
 cept an accidental remark of Nicholas, that it appeared to 
 Lim that his brother was very busy. 
 
 When they arrived, Newton hastened to open the en- 
 closure, and found it to be a draft for 5001., which his 
 uncle had ordered to be filled up the day before. Nicholas 
 was lost in astonishment ; and Newton, although he hati 
 already gained some insight into his uncle's character, was 
 not a little surprised at his extreme liberality. 
 
 "Now," cried Nicholas, rubbing his hands, "^my im- 
 provement upon the duplex ;" and the subject brought up
 
 ORj THE MEKCHANT SERVICE. 201 
 
 by himself, again led him away, and he was in deep 
 thought. 
 
 ITiere was a little piece of advice upon the envelope — 
 " When you cash the draft take the number of your 
 notes." This was all; and it was carefully attended t) 
 by Newton, who took but 201., and left the remainder in 
 tbe hands of the banker. The next day Newton called 
 upon the East India Director, who gave him a letter to 
 the captain of the ship, lying at Gravesend, and expecting 
 to sail in a few days. To Gravesend he immediately re- 
 paired, and, presenting his credentials, was favourably re- 
 ceived ; Avith an intimation that his company was required 
 as soon as convenient. Newton had now no other object to 
 occupy him than to secure an asylum for his father ; and 
 this he was fortunate enough to meet with when he little 
 expected. He had disembarked at Greenwich, intending 
 to return to London by the coach, when having an hour to 
 spare, he sauntered into the hospital, to view a building 
 which had so much of interest to a sailor. After a few min- 
 utes' survey, he sat down on a bench, occupied by several 
 pensioners, outside of the gate, wishing to enter into con- 
 versation with them relative to their condition, when one 
 addressed the other — " ^^hy, Stephen, since the old 
 man's dead, there's no one that'll suit us ; and I expects 
 that we must contrive to do without blinkers at all. Jim 
 Nelson told me the other day, that the fellow in town as 
 has his shop full of polished brass, all the world like the 
 quarter-deck of the Le Amphitrite, when that sucking 
 Honourable (what was his name .'' ) commanded her — 
 Jim said to me, as how he charged him one-and-sixpence 
 for a new piece of flint for his starboard eye. Now you 
 know that old Wilkins never axed no more than threepence. 
 Now, how wer're to pay at that rate, comes to more than 
 my knowledge. Jim hadn't the dirt, although he had 
 brought his threepence ; so his blinkers are left there in 
 limbo." 
 
 " We must find out another man : the shop's to let, and 
 all handy. Suppose we speak to the governor ? " 
 
 "No use to speak to the governor; he don't use 
 blinkers • and so won't have no fellow feeling."
 
 202 NEWTON Jt'ORSTER ; 
 
 Newton entered into conversation^ and found that an 
 old man, who gained his HveUhood in a small shop close 
 to the gate, by repairing the spectacles of the pensioners, 
 had lately died, and that his loss was severely felt by them, 
 as the opticians in town did not work at so reasonable a 
 rate. Newton looked at the shop, which was small and 
 comfortable, commanding a pleasant view of the river, and 
 he was immediately convinced that it would suit his father. 
 On his return, he proposed it to Nicholas, who was de- 
 lighted at the idea ; and the next day tliey viewed the 
 premises together, and took a short lease. In a few days 
 Nicholas was settled in his new habitation, and busily 
 employed in enabling the old pensioners to read the news- 
 papers and count their points at cribbage. He liked his 
 customers, and they liked him. His gains were equal to 
 his Avants ; and, unless on particular occasions — such as a 
 new coat, which, like his birth-day, occurred but once a 
 year, — he never applied to the banker's for assistance 
 Newton, as soon as his father was settled and his own af- 
 fairs arranged, called upon his uncle previous to his em- 
 barkation. Old Forster gave a satisfactory "humph! " to 
 his communication : and Newton, who had tact enough to 
 make his visit short, received a cordial shake of the hand 
 when he quitted the room. 
 
 CHAPTER XIII. 
 
 Poor short-lived things ! what plans we lay ! 
 
 Ah ! why forsake our native home. 
 To distant climates speed away, 
 
 For self sticks close,- where'er we roam. 
 
 Care follows hard, and soon o'ertakes 
 
 The well-rigg'd ship; the warlike steed 
 Her destin'd quarry ne'er forsakes : 
 
 Nor the wind flees with half the speed. Cowper. 
 
 Newton, who had made every pi-eparation, as soon as he 
 had taken leave of his uncle, hastened to join his ship, 
 which still remained at Gravesend, waiting for the despatches
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 203 
 
 eo be closed by the twenty-four leaden heads, presiding at 
 Leadenhall Street. The passengers, with the exception 
 of two, a Scotch presbyterian divine and his wife, were 
 still on shore, divided amongst the inns of the town, un- 
 willing until the last moment to quit terra firma for so 
 many months of sky and water, daily receiving a visit from 
 the captain of the ship, who paid his respects to them all 
 round, imparting any little intelligence he miglit have re- 
 ceived as to the probable time of his departure. 
 
 "WTien Newton arrived on board, he was receivetl by 
 the first-mate, a rough, good-humoured, and intelligent 
 man, about forty years of age, to whom he had already 
 been introduced by the captain, on his previous appear- 
 ance with the letter from the director. 
 
 "Well, Mr. Forster, you're in very good time. As in 
 all probability we shall be shipmates for a voyage or two, 
 I trust that we shall be good friends. Now for your 
 traps : " then turning round, he addressed, in the Hindos- 
 tanee language, two or three Lascars (fine olive-coloured 
 men, with black curling bushy hair), who immediately 
 proceeded to hoist in the luggage. 
 
 The first-mate, with an " excuse me a moment," went 
 forward to give some directions to the English seamen, 
 leaving Forster to look about him. What he observed, we 
 shall describe for the benefit of our readers. 
 
 The Indiaman was a twelve hundred ton ship, as large 
 as one of the small class seventy-four in the king's service, 
 strongly built, with lofty bulwarks, and pierced on the 
 upper deck for eighteen guns, -which were mounted on the 
 quarter-deck and forecastle. Abaft, a poop, higher than 
 the bulwarks, extended forward, between thirty and forty 
 feet, under which was the cuddy or dining-room, and 
 state-cabins, appropriated to passengers. The poop, upon 
 which you ascended by ladders on each side, was crowded 
 with long ranges of coops, tenanted by every variety of 
 domestic fowl, awaiting in happy unconsciousness the day 
 when they should be required to supply the luxurious table 
 provided by the captain. In some, turkeys stretched forth 
 their long necks, and tapped the decks as they picked up 
 some ant who crossed it, in his industry. In others, the
 
 204 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 crowing of cocks and calling of the hens were incessant* 
 or the geese, ranged up rank and file, waited but the signal 
 from one of the party to raise up a simultaneous clamour, 
 which as suddenly was remitted. Coop answered coop, 
 in variety of discord, while the poulterer walked round and 
 round to supply the wants of so many hundreds com 
 mitted to his charge. 
 
 The booms before the main-mast were occupied by the 
 large boats, which had been hoisted in preparatory to the 
 voyage. They also composed a portion of the farm yard. 
 The launch contained about fifty sheep, wedged together so 
 close tliat it was with difficulty they could find room to 
 twist their jaws i-ound, as they chewed the cud. The 
 stern-sheets of the barge and yawl were filled with goats 
 and two calves, who were the first destined victims to the 
 butcher's knife ; while the remainder of their space was 
 occujjieti by hay and other provender, pressed down by 
 powerful machinery into the smallest compass. The oc- 
 casional ba-aing and bleating on the booms were answered 
 by the lowing of three milch-cows between the hatchways 
 of the deck below ; where also were to be descried a few 
 more coops, containing fowls and rabbits. The manger 
 forward had been dedicated to the pigs ; but, as the 
 cables were not yet unbent or bucklers shipped, they at 
 present were confined by gratings between the main-deck 
 guns, where they grunted at each passer-by, as if to ask 
 for food. 
 
 The boats hoisted up on the quarters and the guys of 
 the davits, to which they were suspended, formed the 
 kitchen gardens, from which the passengers were to be 
 supplied, and were loaded with bags containing onions, 
 potatoes, turnips, carrots, beets, and cabbages, the latter 
 fti their full round proportions, hanging in a row upon the 
 guys, like strings of heads, which had been demanded in 
 the wrath or the caprice of some despot of Mahomed's 
 creed. 
 
 Foister descended the ladder to the main-deck which he 
 found equally encumbered with cabins for the passengers, 
 trunks and bedding belonging to them, and many other 
 articles which had not yet found their way into the hold.
 
 OK, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 205 
 
 the hatches of which were open, and in wliich lanterns in 
 every direction partially dispelled the gloom, and 6fFered to 
 his view a confused outline of bales and packages. Car- 
 penters sawing deals, saihnakers roping tlie foot of an old 
 main-sail, servants passing to and fro with dishes, Lascars 
 
 jabbering in their own language, British seamen d g 
 
 their eyes, as Usual, in plain Enghsh, gave an idea of con- 
 fusion and want of method to Newton Forster, Avhich, in a 
 short Hme, he acknowledged himself to have been pre- 
 mature in having conceived. Where you have to provide 
 for such a number, to separate the luggage of so many 
 parties, from the heavy chest to the fragile bandbox, to 
 take in cargo, and prepare for sea, all at the same time, 
 there must be apparently confusion. In a few days 
 every thing finds its place ; and, what is of more conse- 
 quence, is itself to be found as soon as it may be required. 
 
 According to the regulations on board of East India 
 ships, Forster messed below with the junior mates, mid- 
 shipmen, surgeon's assistant, &c. ; the first and second 
 mates only having the privilege of constantly appearing at 
 the captain's table ; Avhile the others receive but an occa- 
 sional invitation, Forster soon became on intimate terms 
 with his shipmates. As they will however appear upon the 
 stage when required to perform their parts, we shall at 
 present confine ourselves to a description of the captain 
 and the passengers. 
 
 Captain Drawlock was a man of about fifty years of 
 age. Report said that in his youth he had been wild, and 
 some of his contemporary commanders in the service were 
 wont to plague him by narrating divers freaks of former 
 days, the recollection of which would create any thing but 
 a smile upon his face. Whether report and the other 
 captains were correct or not in their assertions, Captain 
 Drawlock was in appearance quite a different character at 
 the time we introduce him. He was of sedate aspect, 
 seldom smiled, and appeared to be wrapt up in the im- 
 portance of the trust confided to him, particularly with re- 
 spect to the young women who were sent out under his 
 protection. He talked much of his responsibility, and di- 
 vided the whole of his time between his chronometers and
 
 206 
 
 NEWTOiV FORSTEK 
 
 his young ladies ; in both of which a trifling error was a 
 source of irritation. Upon any deviation on the part of 
 either, the first were rated carefully, the latter were 7'ated 
 soundly ; considering the safety of the ship to be en- 
 dangered on the one hand, and the character of his ship to 
 be equally at stake on the other. It was maliciously ob- 
 served that the latter were by far the more erratic of the 
 two ; and still more maliciously, that the austere behaviom 
 on the part of Captain Drawlock was all pretence ; that he 
 was as susceptible as the youngest officer in the ship ; 
 and that the women found it out long before the voyage 
 was completed. 
 
 It has been previously mentioned that all the passengers 
 were on shore, except two, a Presbyterian divine and his 
 wife, tlie expenses attending whose passage out were pro- 
 vided for by a subscription which had been put on foot by 
 some of the serious people of Glasgow, who prayed fer- 
 vently, and enlivened their devotions with most excellent 
 punch. The worthy clergyman (for worthy he was) 
 thought of little else but his calling, and was a sincere, 
 enthusiastic man, who was not to be checked by any con- 
 sideration in what he considered to be his duty ; but 
 although he rebuked, he rebuked mildly, and never lost his 
 temper. Stern jn his creed, which allowed no loophole by 
 which the offender might escape, stiU there was a kindness 
 and even a humility in his expostulation, which caused his 
 zeal never to offend, and often to create serious reflection. 
 His wife was a tall, handsome woman, who evidently had 
 usurped an ascendancy over her husband in all points un- 
 connected Avith his calling. She too was devout ; but hers 
 "was not the true religion, for it had not charity for its 
 basis. She was clever and severe; spoke seldom; but the 
 few words which escaped from her lips were sarcastic in 
 their tendency. 
 
 The passengers who still remained on shore were nu- 
 merous. There was an old colonel, returning from a three 
 years' furlough, the jnajor part of which had been spent at 
 Cheltenham. He was an Adonis of sixty, wdth yellow 
 cheeks and white teeth ; a man who had passed through 
 life doing nothing ; had risen m his profession without
 
 OB, THE 3IERCUANT SERVICE. 207 
 
 having seen service, except on one occasion, and of that 
 circumstance he made the most. With a good constitution 
 and happy temperament, constantly in society, and con- 
 stantly in requisition, he had grown old without being 
 aware of it, and considered himself as much an object of 
 interest with the other sex as he was formerly when a gay 
 captain of five-and-twenty, with good prospects. Amusing 
 and easily amused, he had turned over the pages of the 
 novel of life so uninterruptedly, that he had nearly arrived 
 at the last page without being conscious that the finis was 
 at hand. 
 
 Then there were two cadets from the college, full of 
 themselves and their own consequence, fitted out with 
 plenty of money and plenty of advice, both of which were 
 destined to be thrown away. There was also a young 
 ■writer, who talked of his mother Lady Elizabeth, and 
 other high relations, who had despatched him to India, 
 that he might be provided for by a cholera morbus or a 
 lucrative post ; a matter of perfect indifference to those 
 who had sent him from England. Then, let me see, — 
 oh ! there were two officers of a regiment at St. Helena, 
 with tongues much longer than their purses ; who in the 
 forepart of the day condescended to talk nonsense to the 
 fairer of the other sex, and in the evening to win a few 
 pounds from the weaker of their own. 
 
 But all these were nobodies in the eyes of Captain 
 Drawlock ; they were a part of his cargo, for which he 
 was not responsible. The important part of his consign- 
 ment were four unmarried women ; three of them were 
 young, good-looking, and poor; the other ill-favoured, old, 
 but rich. 
 
 We must give precedence to wealth and age. The lady 
 last mentioned was a Miss Tavistock, born and educated 
 in the city, where her father had long been at the head of 
 the well-established firm of Tavistock, Bottlecock, & Co., 
 Dyers, Callenderers, and Scourers. As we before observed, 
 she was the fortunate sole heiress to her father's accu- 
 mulation, which might amount to nearly thirty thousand 
 pounds ; but had been little gifted by nature. In fact, 
 she was what you may style most' preposterously ugly;
 
 208 NEWTON FOIISTER ; 
 
 her figure "vvas large and masculine ; her hair red ; and 
 her face very deeply indented with the small pox. As a 
 man, she would have been considered the essence of vul- 
 garity ; as a woman she was the quintessence : so much 
 so, that she had arrived at the age of thirty-six without 
 having, notwithstanding her property, received any atten- 
 tions which could be construed into an offer. As we always 
 seek most eagerly that which we find most difficult to 
 obtain, she was possessed with tine fureur de se marier ; 
 and, as a last resource, had resolved to go out to India, 
 where she had been informed that " any thing white" was 
 acceptable. This passion for matrimony (for with her it 
 had so become, if not a disease) occupied her whole 
 thoughts ; but she attempted to veil them by always pre. 
 tending to be extremely sensitive and refined ; to be 
 shocked at any thing which had the slightest allusion to 
 the " increase and multiply ;" and constantly lamented 
 the extreme fragility of her constitution ; to which her 
 athletic bony frame gave so determined a lie, that her 
 hearers were struck dumb with the barefaced assertion. 
 Miss Tavistock had kept up a correspondence with an old 
 sclioolmate, who had been taken away early to join her 
 friends in India, and had there married. As her hopes of 
 matrimony dwindled away, so did her affection for her old 
 friend appear, by her letters, to increase. At last, in 
 answer to a letter, in which she declared that she would 
 like to come out, and (as she had long made a resolution 
 to continue single) adopt one of her friend's children, and 
 pass her days with them, she received an answer, stating 
 how happy they would be to receive her, and personally 
 renew the old friendship, if indeed she could be persuaded 
 to venture upon so long and venturous a passage. Whether 
 this answer was sincere or not, INIiss Tavistock took ad- 
 vantage of the invitation ; and writing to intimate her 
 speedy arrival, took her passage in the Bombay Castle. 
 
 The other three spinsters were sisters; Charlotte, Laura, 
 and Isabel Revel, daughters of the Honourable Mr. Ilevel, 
 a roue of excellent family, who had married for money, 
 and had dissipated all his wife's fortune except the mar- 
 riage settlement of (iOO/. per annum. Their mother was a
 
 OB, THE MEUCHANT SERVICE. 209 
 
 selfish, short-sighted, manoeuvring woman, whose great 
 anxiety was to form establishments for her daughters, or, 
 in other terms, remove the expense of their maintenance 
 from her own to the shoulders of other people, very indif- 
 ferent whether the change might contribute to their hap- 
 piness or not. Mr. Revel may be said to have long 
 deserted his family ; he lived nobody knew where, and 
 seldom called, unless it was to " raise the wind," upon his 
 wife, who by intreaties and threats was necessitated to 
 purchase his absence by a sacrifice of more than half her 
 income. Of his daughters he took little notice^ when he 
 did make his appearance ; and if so, it was generally in 
 terms more calculated to raise the blush of indignant 
 modesty than to stimulate the natural feelings of affection 
 of a daughter towards a parent. Their mother, whose 
 income was not sufficient to meet the demands of a worth- 
 less husband, in addition to the necessary expenses attendant 
 on three grown-up women, was unceasing in her attempts 
 to get them off" her hands : but we will introduce a con- 
 versation which took place between her and a sedate- 
 looking, powdered old gentleman, who had long been 
 considered as a " friend of the family," as thereby more 
 light will perhaps be thrown upon her character. 
 
 " The fact is, my dear Mr. Heaviside, that I hardly 
 know what to do. Mr. Revel, who is very intimate with 
 the theatre people, proposed that they should try their 
 fortune on the stage. He says (and indeed there is some 
 truth in it) that, now-a-days, the best plan for a man to 
 make himself popular, is to be sent to Newgate, and the 
 best chance that a girl has of a coronet, is to become an 
 actress. Well, I did not much like the idea ; but at last 
 I consented. Isabel, my youngest, is, you know, very 
 handsome in her person, and sings remarkably well, and 
 we arranged that she should go on first ; and if she suc- 
 ceeded, that her sister Charlotte should follow her ; but 
 Isabel is of a very obstinate disposition, and when we pro- 
 posed it to her, she peremptorily refused, and declared 
 that she would go out as governess, or any thing rather 
 than consent. I tried what coaxing would do, and her 
 father tried threatening ; but all was in vain. This was 
 P
 
 210 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 about a year ago, and she is now only seventeen ; but she 
 ever was a most decided^ a most obstinate character." 
 
 " Very undutiful, indeed, ma'am ; she might have been 
 a duchess before this : — a very fooUsh girl, indeed, ma'am," 
 observed the gentleman. 
 
 " Well, Mr. Heaviside, we then thought that Charlotte, 
 our eldest, had the next best chance of success. Although 
 not by any means so good-looking as her sister ; indeed, 
 to tell you the truth, Mr. Heaviside, which I would not 
 do to every body, — but I know that you can keep a secret, 
 Charlotte is now nearly thirty years old, and her sister 
 Laura only one year younger." 
 
 '- Is it possible, madam ! " replied Mi*. Heaviside, 
 looking at the lady with well feigned astonishment. 
 
 " Yes, indeed," replied the lady, who had forgotten 
 that in telling her daughters' secrets, she had let out her 
 own ; " but I was married so young, so very young, that I 
 am almost ashamed to think of it. Well, Mr. Heaviside, 
 as I was saying, although not so good-looking as her sister, 
 Mr. Revel, who is a good judge in these matters, declared 
 that by the theatre lights Charlotte would be reckoned a 
 very fine woman. We proposed it to her, and, after a 
 little pouting, she consented ; the only difficulty was, 
 whether she should attempt tragedy or comedy. Her fea- 
 tures were considered rather too sharp for comedy, and her 
 figure not quite tall enough for tragedy. She herself pre- 
 ferred tragedy, which decided the point ; and Mr. Revel, 
 
 who knows all the actors, persuaderl Mr. Y (you 
 
 know whom I mean, the great tragic actor) to come here, 
 
 and give his opinion of her recitation. Mr. Y was 
 
 excessively polite ; declared that she was a young lady of 
 great talent ; but that a slight lisp, which she has, unfitted 
 her most decidedly for tragedy. Of course it was aban- 
 doned for comedy, which she studied some time ; and 
 when we considered her competent, Mr. Revel had interest 
 
 enough to induce the great Mr. M to come and give 
 
 his opinion. Charlotte performed her part as I thought 
 remarkably well, and when she had finished she left the 
 room, that Mr. M might not be checked by her pre- 
 sence from giving me his unbiassed ojiinion."
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 211 
 
 *' WTiich was favourable, ma'am, I presume ; for, if 
 not fitted for tlie one, she naturally must have been fit for 
 the other.'' 
 
 " So I thought," replied the lady, to this polite non 
 
 sequitur of the gentleman. '•' But Mr. M is a very 
 
 odd man, and, if I must say it, not very polite. What do 
 you think, Mr. Heaviside, as soon as she left the room he 
 rose from his chair, and, twisting up the corner of his 
 mouth, as he looked me in the face, he said, ' Madam, it is 
 my opinion that your daughter's comedy, whenever she 
 makes her appearance on the boards, will, to use a Yankee 
 expression, he most particularly damned ! I wish you a 
 very good morning.' " 
 
 " Very rude indeed, madam ; most excessively unpolite 
 of Mr. M . I should not have thought it possible." 
 
 " Well, Mr. Heaviside, as for Laura ; poor thing ! you 
 are aware that she is not quite so clever as she might be ; 
 she never had any memory: when a child, she never could 
 recollect the evening hymn if she missed it two nights 
 running ; so that acting was out of the question with her. 
 So that all my hopes of their forming a splendid establish- 
 ment by that channel have vanished. Now, my dear Mr. 
 Heaviside, what would you propose?" 
 
 " ^^'hy, really, ma'am, it is so difficult to advise in 
 these times ; but, if anxious to dispose of your daughters, 
 why not send them out to India.''" 
 
 " We have thought of it several times ; for Mr. Revel 
 has an uncle there unmarried, and they say very rich 
 He is a colonel in the Bombay marine, I believe." 
 
 " More probably in the Bengal army, ma'am." 
 
 " Well, I believe you are right ; but I know it 's in the 
 Company's service. But the old gentleman hates my 
 husband, and will not have any thing to say to him. I 
 did write a very civil letter to him, in which I just hinted 
 how glad one or two of my daughters would be to take 
 care of his house ; but he never condescended to give me 
 an answer. I am told that he is a very unpleasant man." 
 
 " A difficult thing to advise, ma'am, very difficult indeed! 
 but I can tell you a circumstance which occurred about five 
 years ago^ when a similar application to a relative in India 
 p 2
 
 212 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 was made by a friend of mine. It was no more attended 
 to than yours has been. Nevertheless, as it was supposed 
 the answer had miscarried, the young lady was sent out to 
 her relative with a decent equipment, and a letter of intro- 
 duction. Her relation was very much surprised : but 
 what could he do ? he could not permit the young lady to 
 remain without a roof over her head ; so he received her ; 
 and as he did not like to say how he had been treated^ he 
 held his tongue. The young lady in the course of three 
 months, made a very good match ; and is, to my know- 
 ledge, constantly sending home India shawls and other 
 handsome presents to her mother." 
 
 " Indeed, Mr. Heaviside, then do you advise " 
 
 " It is difficult, extremely difficult to advise upon so 
 nice a point. I only state the fact, my dear madam : I 
 should think the colonel must feel the want of female 
 society; but, God bless me! it's nearly two o'clock. — 
 Good morning, my dear Mrs. Revel — good morning." 
 
 " Good morning, my dear Mr. Heaviside ; it 's very 
 kind of you to call in this sociable v/ay, and chat an hour 
 or two. — Good morning." 
 
 The result of the above conversation was a consultation 
 between Mr. Revel and his wife upon their first meeting. 
 Mr. Revel was delighted with the plan, not so much caring 
 at the disposal of his daughters as he was pleased with the 
 idea of annoying his uncle, from whom he, at one time, 
 had had great expectations : but, as it was necessary to be 
 circumspect, especially with Isabel, Mr. Revel took the 
 opportunity of a subsequent visit to state that he had re- 
 ceived a letter from his uncle in India, wishing one of his 
 daughters to go out and live with him. In a few months 
 he read another letter (composed by himself, and copied in 
 another hand), earnestly desiring that they might all come 
 out to him, as it would be much to their advantage. The 
 reluctance of the two eldest was removed by pointing out 
 the magnificent establishments they might secure : the 
 consent of Isabel by a statement of difficulty and debt on 
 the part of her parents, which would end in beggary if not 
 relieved from the burden of their support. 
 
 By insuring her hfe, a sum of money sufficient for their
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 213 
 
 outfit and passage was raised on Mrs. Revel's marriage 
 settlement ; and the three Miss Revels were thus shipped 
 off by their affectionate parents, as a " venture," in the 
 Bombay Castle. 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 Thus the rich vessel moves in trim array. 
 Like some fair virgin on her bridal day : 
 Thus lilie a swan, she cleaves the watery plain. 
 The pride and wonder of the ^gean main. 
 
 The natives, while the ship epairts tlic land. 
 
 Ashore, with admiration gazing stand : 
 
 Majestically slow before the breeze. 
 
 In silent pomp, she marches on the seas. Falconer. 
 
 Much to the satisfaction of Captain Drawlock, the chro- 
 nometers and the ladies were safe on board, and the Bom- 
 bay Castle proceeded to the Downs, where she was joined 
 by the purser, charged with the despatches of the august 
 directors. Once upon a time a director was a very great 
 man, and the India board a very great board. There 
 must have been a very great many plums in the pudding, 
 for in this Avorld people do not take trouble for nothing ; 
 and until latter years, how eagerly, how perseveringly was 
 this situation applied for — what supplicating advertise- 
 ments — what fawning and wheedling promises of atten- 
 tion to the interests of the proprietors —" your voices, 
 good people ! " But now nobody is so particularly anxious 
 to be a director, because another board " bigger than he" 
 has played the kittiwake, and forced it to disgorge for the 
 consumption of its superior, — I mean the Board of Con- 
 trol : the reader has probably heard of it ; the board 
 which, not content with the European residents in India 
 being deprived of their proudest birthright, "^ the liberty 
 of the press," would even prevent them from having jus- 
 tice awarded to them, by directing two tame elephants 
 
 (thereby implying two ) to be placed on 
 
 each side of a wild one (thereby implying an honest and 
 p 3
 
 214 NEWTON fokster; 
 
 conscientious man). Notwithstanding all which, for the 
 present, the tongue, the ears and the eyes are permitted to 
 be made discreet use of, although I believe that the new 
 charter is to have a clause introduced to the contrary. 
 
 The prevalent disease of the time we live in is ophthal- 
 mia of intellect, affecting the higher classes. Monarchs, 
 stone-blind, have tumbled headlong from their thrones, and 
 princes have been conducted by their subjects out of theii 
 principalities. The aristocracy are purblind, and cannot 
 distinctly decipher the " signs of the times." The hier- 
 archy cannot discover why people would have religion at a 
 reduced price : in fact, they are all blind, and will not 
 perceive that an enormous mass, in the shaj^e of public 
 opinion, hangs over their heads and threatens to annihilate 
 them. li'orgetting that kings, and princes, and lords, 
 spiritual or temporal, have all been raised to their various 
 degrees of exaltation by public opinion alone, they talk of 
 legitimacy, pf vested rights, and Deuteronomy. — Well, 
 if there is to be a general tumble, thank God, I can't fall far ! 
 
 We left the Bombay Castle in the Downs, where she 
 remained until joined by several other India vessels. On 
 the arrival of a large frigate, who had orders to escort 
 them as far as the Island of St. Helena, they all weighed, 
 and bore down the Channel before a strong S. E. gale. The 
 first ten days of a voyage there is seldom much communi- 
 cation between those belonging to the ship and the passen 
 gers ; the former are too much occupied in making things 
 shipshape, and the latter with the miseries of sea-sickness. 
 An adverse gale in the Bay of Biscay, with which they 
 had to contend, did not at all contribute to the recovery of 
 the digestive powers of the latter ; and it was not until a' 
 day or two before the arrival of the convoy at Madeira that 
 the ribbon of a bonnet was to be seen fluttering in the 
 breeze which swept the decks of the Bombay Castle. 
 
 The first which rose up from the quarter-deck hatchway 
 was one that encircled the head of Mrs. Ferguson, the Avife 
 of the presbyterian divine, who crawled up the ladder, sup- 
 portea on one side by her husband, and on the other by the 
 assiduous Captain Drawlock. 
 
 " Very well done, ma'am, indeed ! " said the captain,
 
 OR,- TUE JtKIlClIA.VT SERVICE. 215 
 
 with an encouraging smile, as the lady seized hold of the 
 copper stanchions which surrounded the sky-lights, to sup- 
 port herself, when she had gained the deck. " You "re a 
 capital sailor, and have by your conduct set an example to 
 the other ladies, as I have no doubt your husband does to 
 the gentlemen. Now allow me to oiFer you my arm." 
 
 '' Will you take mine also, my dear," said Mr. Ferguson. 
 
 " No, Mr. Ferguson," replied the lady, tartly ; " I think 
 it is enough for you to take care of yourself. Recollect 
 your Scripture proverb of ' the blind leading the blind.' I 
 have no inclination to tumble into one of those pits," 
 added she, pointing to the hatchway. 
 
 Captain Drawlock very civilly dragged the lady to the 
 weather-side of the quarter-deck, where, after in vain at- 
 tempting to walk, she sat down upon one of the carronade 
 slides. 
 
 *' The fresh air will soon revive you, ma'am ; you 'II be 
 much better directly," observed the attentive captain. "■ I 
 beg your pardon one moment, but there is another lady 
 coming out of the cuddy." 
 
 The cabins abaft the cuddy or dining-room were 
 generally occupied by the more distinguished and wealthy 
 passengers (a proportionate sum being charged extra for 
 them). The good people of Glasgow, with a due regard 
 to economy, had not run themselves into such unnecessary 
 expenses for the passage of Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson. Mr. 
 Revel, aware of the effect produced by an appearance of 
 wealtli, had taken one of them for his daughters. The 
 other had been secured by Miss Tavistock, much to the gra- 
 tification of the captain, who thus had his unmarried ladies 
 and his chronometers both immediately under his own eye. 
 
 The personage who had thus called away the attention 
 of the captain was Isabel Revel, whom, although she has 
 already been mentioned, it will be necessary to describe 
 more particularly to the reader. 
 
 Isabel Revel was now eighteen years old, endowed with 
 a mind so superior, that had not her talents been checked 
 by a natural reserve, she might have stepped from the 
 crowd, and have been hailed as a genius. She had been 
 brought up by a foolish mother, and had in her earlier 
 p l
 
 2J6 NEWTON FORSTER 
 
 years been checked by her two insipid sisters, who assumed 
 over her an authority which their age alone could warrant. 
 Seldom, if ever, permitted to appear when there was 
 company, that she might not " spoil the market" of the 
 eldest, she had in her solitude applied much to reading, 
 and thus had her mind been highly cultivated. 
 
 The conduct of her father entitled him to no respect ; 
 the heartlessness of her mother to no esteem ; the tyranny 
 of her sisters, to no aflPection ; yet did she strive to render 
 all. Until the age of sixteen she had been the Cinderella 
 of the family, during which period of seclusion she had 
 learned to think and to act for herself. 
 
 Her figure was a little above the middle size, light and 
 elegant ; her features beautiful, with an expression of 
 seriousness, arising probably from speaking little and re- 
 flecting much. Yet she possessed a mind ardent and 
 enthusiastic, which often bore her away in animated dis- 
 course, until the eye of admiration fixed upon her, would 
 suddenly close her lips, for her modesty and her genius 
 were at perpetual variance. 
 
 It is well known to most of my readers that Avoman is a 
 problem ; but it may not be as \vell known that now-a- 
 days, she is a mathematical problem. Yet so it is. As 
 in the latter you have certain known quantities given by 
 which you are to find a quantity unknown, so in a lady 
 you have the hand, the foot, the mouth, &c. apparent ; and 
 't is only by calculation, now that modern dresses are made 
 so full, that you can arrive at a just estimate of her ap- 
 proach to total perfection. All good arithmeticians, as they 
 scrutinised the outward and the visible of Isabel Revel, 
 were perfectly assured as to her quotient. But if I talked 
 for hours, I could say no more than that she was one of 
 those ideal images created in the dream of youth and 
 poetry, fairly embodied in flesh and blood. As her father 
 had justly surmised, could she have been persuaded to 
 have tried her fortune on the stage, she had personal 
 attractions, depth of feeling, and vivacity of mind to h-ave 
 rendered her one of the very first in a profession, to excel 
 in which, perhaps, there is more correct judgment and 
 versatility of talent required than in any other, and would
 
 OK, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. ' 217 
 
 have had a fair prospect of obtaining that coronet which 
 has occasionally been the reward of those fair dames who 
 " stoop to conquer." 
 
 Mr. Revel, who had been made acquainted with the 
 customs on board of East India ships, had been introduced 
 to Mrs. Ferguson, and had requested her to take upon her- 
 self the office of chaperons to his daughters, during the 
 passage ; a nominal charge indeed, yet considered to be 
 etiquette. Mrs. Ferguson, pleased with the gentleman- 
 like demeanour and personal appearance of Mr. Revel, and 
 perhaps at the same time not sorry to have an authority to 
 find fault, had most graciously acquiesced, and the three 
 Miss Revels were considered to be under her protection. 
 
 As I said before, Miss Isabel Revel made her appearance 
 not unattended, for she was escorted by Doctor Plausible, 
 the surgeon of the ship. And now I must again digress 
 while I introduce that gentleman. I never shall get that 
 poor girl from the cuddy-door. 
 
 Doctor Plausible had been summoned to prescribe for 
 Miss Laura Revel, who suffered extremely from the motion 
 of the vessel, and the remedies which she had applied to 
 relieve her uneasiness. Miss Laura Revel had been told 
 by somebody, previous to her embarkation, that the most 
 effectual remedy for sea-sickness was gingerbread. In 
 pursuance of the advice received, she had provided herself 
 with ten or twelve squares of this commodity, about one 
 foot by eighteen inches, which squares she had commenced 
 upon as soon as she came on board, and had never ceased 
 to swallow, notwithstanding various interruptions. The 
 more did her stomach reject it, the more did she force it 
 down, until, what, with deglutition, et vice versa, she had 
 been reduced to a state of extreme weakness, attended with 
 fever. 
 
 How many panaceas have been offered without success 
 for two evils — sea-sickness and hydrophobia ! and between 
 these two there appears to be a link, for sea-sickness as 
 surely ends in hydrophobia, as hydrophobia does in death. 
 The sovereign remedy prescribed, when I first went to sea, 
 was a piece of fat pork, tied to a string, to be swallowed, 
 and then pulled up again ; the dose to be repeated until
 
 218 NEWTON FOKSTEU ; 
 
 effective. I should not have mentioned this well-known 
 remedy, as it has long been superseded by other nostrums, 
 were it not that this maritime prescription has been the 
 origin of two modern improvements in the medical cata- 
 logue — one is the stomach pump, evidently borrowed from 
 this simple engine ; the other is the very successful pre- 
 scription now in vogue, to tiiose who are weak in the diges- 
 tive organs, to eat fat bacon for breakfast, which I have no 
 doubt was suggested to Doctor Vance, from what he had 
 been eye-witness to on board of a man-of-war. 
 
 But here I am digressing again from Doctor Plausible 
 to Dr. Vance. Reader, I never lose the opportunity of 
 drawing a moral ; and what an important one is here ! 
 Observe how difficult it is to regain the right ])ath when 
 once you have quitted it. Let my error be a warning to 
 you in your journey through life, and my digressions pre- 
 serve you from diverging from the beaten track, which, as 
 the Americans would say, leads clean slick on to happiness 
 and peace. 
 
 Doctor Plausible was a personable man, apparently about 
 five-and-thirty years old : he wore a little powder in his 
 hair, black silk stockings, and knee-breeches. In this I 
 consider Doctor Plausible was right ; the above look much 
 more scientific than Wellington trousers ; and much de- 
 pends upon the exterior. He was quite a ladies' man ; 
 talked to them about their extreme sensibility, their peculiar 
 fineness of organic structure, their delicacy of nerves ; and 
 soothed his patients more ' by flattery than by physic. 
 Having discovered that Miss Laura was not inclined to 
 give up her gingerbread, he immediately acknowledged its 
 virtues, but recommended that it should be cut into ex- 
 tremely small dice, and allowed, as it were, to melt, aw»y 
 upon the tongue ; stating, that her digestive organs were 
 so refined and delicate, that they would not permit them- 
 selves to be loaded with any large particles, even of farina- 
 ceous compound. Isabel Revel, who had been informed 
 that Mrs. Ferguson was on deck, expressed a wish to escape 
 from the confined atmosphere of the cabin ; and Doctor 
 Plausible, as soon as he had prescribed for Miss Laura,
 
 ORj THE llIERCn.\NT SERVICE. 219 
 
 offered Miss Isabel his services ; wliicli^ for want of a 
 better, perhaps, were accepted. 
 
 The ship at this time had a great deal of motion. The 
 gale was spent ; but the sea created by the violence of the 
 wind had not yet subsided, and the waves continued still to 
 rise and fall again, like the panting breasts of men who 
 have just desisted from fierce contention. Captain 
 Drawlock hastened over to receive his charge from the 
 hands of the medical attendant ; and paying Isabel some 
 compliments on her appearance, was handing her over to 
 the weather-side, where Mrs. Ferguson was seated, when 
 a sea of larger dimensions than usual careened the ship to 
 what the sailors term a '■' heavy lurch." The decks were 
 wet and slippery. Captain Drawlock lost his footing, and 
 was tlirown to leeward. Isabel would have most certainly 
 kept him company ; and indeed was already under weigh 
 for the lee-scuppers, had not it been that Newton Forster, 
 who stood near, caught her round the Avaist, and prevented 
 her from falling. 
 
 It certainly was a great presumption to take a young 
 lady round the waist previous to any introduction ; but, 
 at sea, we are not very particular ; and if we do perceive 
 that a lady is in danger of a severe fall, we do not stand 
 upon etiquette. What is more remarkable, we generally 
 find that the ladies excuse our unpolished manners, either 
 upon the score of our good intentions, or because there is 
 nothing so very impertinent in them after all. Certain 
 it is, that Isabel, as soon as she had recovered from 
 her alarm, thanked Newton Forster, with a sweet smile, 
 for his timely aid, as she again took the arm of Captain 
 Drawlock, who escorted her to the weather-side of the 
 quarter-deck. 
 
 " I have brought you one of your protegees, Mrs. Fergu- 
 son," said Captain Drawlock. " How do you feel. Miss 
 Revel } " 
 
 " Like most young ladies, sir, a little giddy," replied 
 Isabel. " I hope you were not hurt. Captain Drawlock ; 
 I'm afraid tliat you fell by paying more attention to me 
 than to yourself."
 
 220 NEWTON FORoTER ; 
 
 ' My duty. Miss Revel. Allow ma to add, my plea- 
 sure," replied the captain, bowing. 
 
 " That's very politely said, Captain Drawlock," replied 
 Isabel. 
 
 "Almost too polite, I think," observed Mrs. Ferguson 
 (who was out of humour at not being the first object of 
 attention), '• considering that Captain Drawlock is a 
 married man, with seven children." The captain looked 
 glum, and Miss Revel observing it, turned the conversation, 
 by inquiring — " Who was that gentleman who saved me 
 from falling ? " 
 
 " Mr. Newton Forster, one of the mates of the vessel. 
 AVould you like to walk Miss Revel or remain where you 
 are ? " 
 
 " Thank you, I will stay with Mrs. Ferguson." 
 
 The gentlemen passengers had as yet but occasionally 
 appeared on deck. Men generally suffer more from the 
 distressing sickness than women. As soon, however, as 
 the news had been communicated below, that the ladies 
 were on deck, some of the gentlemen immediately repaired 
 to their trunks, to make themselves presentable, and then 
 hastened on deck. The first on deck was the old colonel, 
 who tottered up the hatchway, and by dint of seizing rope 
 after rope, at last succeeded in advancing his lines to 
 within hearing range of Mrs. Ferguson, to whom he had 
 been formally introduced. He commenced by lamenting 
 his unfortunate sufferings, which had prevented him from 
 paying those attentions, ever to him a source of enjoyment 
 and gratification ; but he was a martyr — quite a martyr ; 
 never felt any sensation which could be compared to it, 
 except when he was struck in the breast with a spent ball, 
 
 in the battle of ; that their appearance had made him 
 
 feel revived already ; that as the world would be a dark 
 prison without the sun, so would a ship be without the 
 society of ladies; commenced a description of Calcutta, and 
 then — made a hasty retreat to the lee-gangway. 
 
 The young writer next made his appearance, followed 
 by two boys, who were going out as cadets ; the first, with 
 a new pair of grey kid gloves, the others in their uniforms. 
 The writer descanted long upon his own miseries, withoit
 
 OR, TffE MERCHANT SERVICE. 221 
 
 any inquiry or condolement for the sufferings of the ladies. 
 Tlie cadets said nothing; but stared so much at Isabel 
 Revel, that she dropped her veil. 
 
 The ladies had been about a quarter of an hour on deck 
 when the sun, which had not shown itself for two days, 
 gleamed through the clouds. Newton, who was officer of 
 the watch, and had been accustomed when with Mr. 
 Berecroft, to work a chronometer, interrupted the captain, 
 who was leaning on the carronade, talking to Mrs. Fer- 
 guson. 
 
 " The sun is out, and the horizon pretty clear, sir ; you 
 may have sights for the chronometers." 
 
 " Yes, indeed," said the captain, looking up; " be quick, 
 and fetch my sextant. You'll excuse me, ladies, but the 
 chronometers must be attended to." 
 
 " In preference to us. Captain Drawlock ? — Fie for 
 shame ! " replied Mrs. Ferguson. 
 
 '' Why, not exactly," replied the captain, " not exactly; 
 but the fact is that the sun may go in again." 
 
 "And we can stay out, I presume.^" replied Isabel, 
 laughing. " I think, Mrs. Ferguson, we ought to go in 
 too," 
 
 " But, my dear young lady, if the sun goes in, I shall 
 not get a sight ! 
 
 " And if we go in, you will not get a sight either," re- 
 plied Mrs. Ferguson. 
 
 " Between the two, sir," observed Newton, handing 
 Captain Drawlock his sextant, " you stand a chance of 
 losing both. There's no time to spare; I'm all ready." 
 
 Captain Drawlock walked to the break of the gangways, 
 so far concealed from the ladies that they could not per- 
 ceive that he was looking through his sextant, the use of 
 which they did not comprehend, having never seen one 
 before. Newton stood at the caps' ern, with his eyes fixed 
 on the watch. 
 
 " Captain Drawlock," said Mrs. Ferguson, caUing to 
 him, " allow me to observe " 
 
 ' Stop," cried Captain Drawlock, in a loud voice. New 
 ton, to whorn this was addressed, noted the time. 
 
 " Good heavens ! what can be the matter ; " said Mrs.
 
 222 NEWTON FORSTER ," 
 
 Ferguson, v.'itli astonishment, to those near her ; " how 
 excessively rude of Captain Drawlock ; — what can it be?" 
 continued she, addressing the colonel, -who had rejoined 
 them. 
 
 " Really, madam, I cannot tell ; but it is my duty to 
 inquire," replied the colonel, who, going up to Captain 
 Drawlock, commenced — " Have the ladies already so fallen 
 in your estimation ' 
 
 " Forty degrees ! " cried Captain Drawlock, who was 
 intent upon his sextant. '' Excuse me, sir, just now." 
 
 " When will you be at leisure, sir ? '' resumed the 
 colonelj haughtily. 
 
 " Twenty- six minutes," continued the captain, reading 
 off his sextant. 
 
 "A little sooner, I shoidd hope, sir," retorted the 
 colonel. 
 
 '^ Forty-five seconds." 
 
 " This is really quite insufferable ! Miss Revel, we had 
 better go in." 
 
 "Stop!" again cried Captain Drawlock, in a loud 
 voice. 
 
 "Stop!" repeated Mrs. Ferguson, angrily; '^' surely we 
 are not slaves." 
 
 Newton, who heard, what was passing, could not repress 
 his laiighter. 
 
 " Indeed, I am sure there must be some mistake, Mrs. 
 Ferguson," observed Isabel. " Wait a little." 
 
 " Forty-six minutes, thirty seconds," again read off the 
 captain. Capital sights both ! but the sun is behind, that 
 dark cloud, and we shall have no more of his presence." 
 
 " Nor of ours, I assure you, sir," said Mrs. Ferguson, 
 rising, as Captain Drawlock walked from the gangway to 
 the capstern. 
 
 " Why, my dear madam, what is the matter ? " 
 
 " We have not been accustomed to such peremptory lan- 
 guage, sir. It may be tlie custom on board ship to holla 
 ' stop ' to ladies when they address you, or express a wish 
 to leave the deck," 
 
 " j\Iy dearest madam, I do assure you, upon my honour
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 223 
 
 that you are under a mistake. I ordered Mr, Forster to 
 stop, not you." 
 
 "Mr. Forster!" replied the lady; "why, he Avas 
 standing still the whole time ! " 
 
 It was not until the whole system of taking sights for 
 chronometers had been satisfactorily explained that the 
 lady recovered her good-humour. "While the captain was 
 thus employed with Mrs. Ferguson, Newton, although it 
 was not necessary, explained the mystery to JMiss Revel, 
 who, with Mrs. Ferguson, soon after quitted the deck. 
 
 The sights taken proved the ship to be to the eastward 
 of her reckoning. The other ships in company had made 
 the same discovery, and the course was altered one quarter 
 of a jDoint. In two days they dropped their anchor in 
 Funcl^l Roads. 
 
 But I must for a little while recross the Bay of Biscay, 
 and with "my reader look into the chambers of Mr. John 
 Forster. 
 
 CHAPTER XV 
 
 Look 
 Upon this child — I saved her, must not leave 
 Her life to chance; but point me out some nook 
 
 Of safety, where she less may shrink and grieve. 
 • »»«** 
 
 This child, vho parentless, is therefore mine. 
 
 A FEW minutes after Newton had quitted the chambers 
 of his uncle the clerk made his appearance, announcing 
 to Mr. John Forster that a gentleman requested to speak 
 to him. 
 
 " I asked the gentleman's name, sir," observed the clerk, 
 shutting to the door, " but he did not choose to give it. 
 He has a little girl with him." 
 
 " Very well, Scratton, the little girl cannot concern me," 
 replied the old lawyer ; " ask him to walk in ;" — and he 
 again conned over the brief, not choosing to lose the 
 minute which might elapse before he was again to be
 
 224 NEWTON FORSTEIt ; 
 
 interrupted. The door was reopened, and Edward Forster, 
 with Amber holding him by the hand, entered the room. 
 
 " Your servant, sir. Scratton, a chair — two chairs, 
 Scratton. I beg your pardon, young lady." 
 
 When the clerk had retired, Mr. John Forster com- 
 menced as usual. " Now, sir, may I request the favour of 
 asking your business with me.''" 
 
 " You do not recollect me ; nor am I surprised at it, as 
 it is fifteen years since we last met. Time and suffering, 
 which have worn me to a skeleton, have also worn out the 
 remembrance of a brother. I am Edward Forster." 
 
 " Edward Forster ! — humph ! Well, I did not re- 
 collect you ; but I ' m very glad to see you, brother. Very 
 strange — never have heard of one of my family for years, 
 and now they all turn up at once ! No sooner get rid of 
 one than up starts another. Nicholas came from the Lord 
 knows where, the other day." 
 
 Edward Forster, who was better acquainted with his 
 brother's character than Newton, took no notice of the 
 abruptness of his remarks, but replied : — 
 
 ''Nicholas! Is he then alive? I shall be delighted to 
 see him.' 
 
 " Humph !" replied John, " I was delighted to get rid 
 of him. Take care of your watch or spectacles when you 
 meet him." 
 
 " Indeed, brother ! " I trust he is not such a character." 
 
 " Btit he is a character, I can tell you ; not what you 
 suppose — he 's honest enough. Let me see — if my 
 memory serves me, brother Edward, we last met when you 
 
 were passing through London on your way to , 
 
 having been invalided, and having obtained a pension 
 of forty pounds per annum for a severe wound received 
 in action. 7\nd pray, brother, where have you been ever 
 5ince ? " 
 
 " At the same spot, from which I probably never should 
 have been induced to remove, had it not been for the sake 
 of this little girl who is now with me." 
 
 "And pray who may be that little girl.'' is she your 
 daughter?" 
 
 " Only by adoption.
 
 on, THE MERCHANT SKllVICE. 225 
 
 " Humph, brother ! for a half-pay heutenant that appears 
 rather an expensive -whim! — bad enough to maintain 
 children of our own begetting." 
 
 " You say true," replied Edward ; " but if in this in- 
 ' stance I have incurred an expense and responsibility, it 
 must be considered to be more my misfortune than my 
 fault." Edward Forster then entered into the particulars 
 connected with Amber's rescue. " You must acknowledge, 
 brother John," observed Edward, as he closed liis narrative, 
 " that I could not well have acted otherwise ; you would 
 not have yourself." 
 
 " Humph ! I don't know that ; but this I do know, 
 that you had better have stayed at home ! " 
 
 " Perhaps so, considering the forlorn prospects of the 
 child ; but we must not judge. The same Providence 
 which willed that she should be so miraculously saved, also 
 willed that I should be her protector ; — wliy otherwise 
 did the dog lay her at my feet ? " 
 
 " Because it had been taught to ' fetch and carry,' I 
 suppose: but, however, brother Edward, I have no right 
 to question your conduct. If the girl is as good as she is 
 pretty, why all the better for her ; but, as I am rather 
 busy, let me ask if you have any more to say to me ? " 
 
 '■' 1 have, John ; and the discourse Ave have had is pre- 
 liminary. I am here with a child, forced upon me I may 
 say, but still as dear to me as if she were mine own. You 
 must be aware that I have nothing but my pension and 
 half-pay to subsist upon. I can save nothing. J\Iy health 
 is undermined and my life precarious. Last winter I 
 never expected to quit my bed again ; and, as I lay in it, 
 the thought naturally occurred of the forlorn and helpless 
 state in which this poor little girl would be in case of my 
 decease. In a lonely cottage, without money — without 
 J'amily or friends to apply to — without any one near her 
 being made acquainted with her unfortunate history, 
 ^Yhat would have become of her .f* It was this reflection 
 which determined me, if my life was spared, as soon as 
 my health would permit, to come to you, the onlv relative 
 I was certain of still having in the world, that I might 
 acquaint you with her existence, and, with her history 
 o
 
 226" NEWTON FORSTER , 
 
 confide to you the few articles of dress which she wore 
 when rescued, and whicli may eventually lead to her re- 
 cognition : — a case of extreme doubt and difficulty^ I 
 grant ; but the ways of Providence are raysterious, and her 
 return to the arms of her friends will not be more wonder- 
 ful than her preservation on that dreadful night. Brother! 
 I never have applied to you in my own behalf, although 
 conscious how ample are your means — and I never will ; 
 but I do now plead in favour of this dear child. Worn 
 out as I am, my pilgrimage on earth can be but short ; 
 and if you would smooth the pillow of a dying brother, 
 promise him now that you will extend your bounty to this 
 poor orphan, when I 'm no more ! " 
 
 Edward Forster's voice was tremulous at the close of 
 his appeal, and his brother appeared to be affected. There 
 was a silence of a minute, when the customary " humph ! " 
 was ejaculated, and John Forster then continued: " A very- 
 foolish business, brother — very foolish indeed. When 
 Nicholas and his son came here the other day and applied 
 to me — why, it. was all very well — there was relation- 
 ship ; but really, to put another man's child upon me ! " 
 
 " Not while it pleases Heaven to spare wy life, brother." 
 
 '' ' May you live a thousand years i ' then, as the 
 Spanish say ; but, however, brother Edward, as you say, 
 the poor thing must not starve ; so, if I am to take care 
 of a child of another man's begetting, as soon as you are 
 dead, I can only say, it will very much increase my sor- 
 row at your loss. Come here, little one: What's your 
 name ? " 
 
 '•Amber." 
 
 " Amber ! who the devil gave you that fool's name ?" 
 
 " I did, brothel-," replied Edward^ " I thought it ap- 
 propriate." 
 
 " Humph I really can't see why. Why did you not 
 call her Sukey, or some name fit for a Christian ? Amber ! 
 Amber's a gum, is it not ? Stop, let's see what Johnson 
 says." 
 
 The lawyer went to a case of books which v/ere in the 
 next room, and returned with a quarto. 
 
 " Now," said he, seating himself; "AG^ — AL — AM
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SEIIVIOK. 23" 
 
 — Ambassador — Ambassadress — Amber ! — humph ! 
 here it is, 'A yellow transparent substance of a gummous 
 or bituminous consistence, but of a resinous taste, and a 
 smell like oil of turpentine ; chiefly found in the Baltic 
 sea or the coast of Prussia.' Humph ! ' Some have 
 imagined it to consist of the tears of birds ; others the ' — 
 humph ! — '^ of a beast ; others the scum of the Lake 
 Cephesis, near the Atlantic ; others a congelation in some 
 fountains, where it is found swimming like pitch.' Really, 
 brother," continued the lawyer, fixing his eyes on the 
 little girl, and shutting the book, " I can't see the 
 analogy." 
 
 " I3e her godfather, my dear brother, and call her any 
 name you please." 
 
 " Humph ! " 
 
 ' Pray, papa," said Amber, turning to Edward Forster, 
 *' what's the meaning of humph ? " 
 
 " Humph ! " repeated the laAvyer, looking hard at 
 Amber. 
 
 " It implies yes or no, as it may be," replied Edward 
 Forster, smiling. 
 
 '' I never heard any one say it before, papa. You 're 
 not angry with me, sir?" continued Amber, turning round 
 to John Forster. 
 
 "No, not angry, little girl; but I 'm too busy to talk 
 to you — or indeed with you, brotlier Edward. Have you 
 any thing more to say ? " 
 
 " Nothing, my dear brother, if I have ycur promise." 
 
 " Well, you have it ; but what am I to do with her, 
 God only knows ! I wish you had kept better hours. You 
 mentioned some clothes which might identify her to her 
 relations ; pray let me have them, for I shall have the 
 greatest ))lcasure in restoring her to them, as soon as pos- 
 sible, alter she is once in my bands." 
 
 "■ Here they are, brother," replied Edward, taking a 
 small packet from his coat-pockec : " you had better take 
 charge of them now; and may God bless you for havi)ig 
 relieved my mind from so heavy a load ! " 
 
 " Humph ! by taking it o\\ my own shoulders," muttered 
 John, as he walked to tlio 'iron safe, to deposit the packet 
 Q 2
 
 228 NEWTON FORSTER : 
 
 of linen ; then returning to the table, " Have you any ihnig 
 more to say, brotlier?" 
 
 •' Only to ask you where I may find my brother Ni- 
 cholas ? " 
 
 " That I can't tell ; my nephew told me somewhere- 
 down the river ; but, it 's a long way from here to the 
 Nore. Nephew's a fine lad ; I sent him off to the East 
 Indies." 
 
 " I am sorry then that I have no chance of seeing him : 
 
 — but you are busy, brother ? " 
 
 " I have told you so three times, as plain as I could 
 speak ? " 
 
 *" I will no longer trespass on your time. We return 
 home to-morrow morning ; and, as I cannot expect ever to 
 see you again, God bless you, my dear John ! and farewell, 
 I am afraid I may say, in this world at least, farewell for 
 ever ! " 
 
 Edward held out his hand to his brother. It was taken 
 with considerable emotion, " Farewell, brother, farewell I 
 
 — I '11 not forget." 
 
 " Good-bye, sir," said Amber, going close up to John 
 Forster. 
 
 " Good-bye, my little girl," replied he, looking earnestly 
 in her face ; and then, as if thawing towards her, as he 
 scanned her beautiful and expressive features, removing his 
 spectacles and kissing her, " Good-bye." 
 
 " Oh .' papa," cried Amber, as she went out of the room, 
 " he kissed me ! " 
 
 " Humph ! " said John Forster, as the door closed upon 
 them. 
 
 The spectacles were put on, and the reading of the brief 
 iiRmediatclv continued.
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SEKVICE. !J29 
 
 CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 Sh-icMand. Tliese doings in my house distract me. . 
 
 I met a fine gentleman ; when I inquired who 
 
 He was — why, he came to Clarinda. 1 met 
 
 A footman too, and he came to Clarinda. 
 
 Mv wile had tlic character of a virtuous 
 
 Woman • Suspicions IIusbantL 
 
 Let us no more contend , 
 Kach other, blamed enough elsewhere, but strive 
 In olfices of love, how we may liglitcu 
 Each other's burden in our share of woe. Milton. 
 
 1 no not know a spot on the globe which astonishes antl 
 deUghts, upon your first lancUng, as the island of Madeira. 
 The voyager embarks, and is in all probability confined to 
 his cabin, suffering under the dreadful protraction of sea- 
 sickness. Perhaps he has left England in the gloomy close 
 of the autumn, or the frigid concentration of an English 
 winter. In a week, or even in a shorter period, he again 
 views that terra firma Avhich he had quitted with regret, 
 and Avhich in his sufferings he would have given half that 
 he possessed to regain. When he lands upon the island, 
 what a change ! Winter has become summer, the naked 
 trees which he left are exchanged for the most luxuriant 
 and varied foliage, snow and frost for warmth and splen 
 tlour ; the scenery of the temperate zone for the profusion 
 and magnificence of the tropics ; fruit which he had never 
 before seen, supplies for the table unknown to him ; a 
 bright sky, a glowing sun, hills covered with vines, a deep- 
 blue sea, a picturesque and novel costume ; all meet and 
 delight the eye, just at the precise moment, when to have 
 been landed even upon a barren island would have been 
 considered as a luxury. Add to all this, the unbounded 
 hospitality of the English residents, a sojourn too short to 
 permit satiety ; and then is it to be wondered that the 
 island of jMadcira is a " green spot " in the memory of all 
 those who land there, or that they quit it with regret? * 
 The Bombay Castle had not been two hours at anchor 
 before the passengers had availed themselves of an invitae 
 Q S
 
 230 NswTOpr FORSTEiT ; 
 
 tion from one of the English residents, and v/cre quartered 
 in a splendid house, whicli looked ujion a square and one 
 of the principal churches in the city of Funchal. While 
 the gentlemen amused themselves at the extensive range of 
 vi^indows with the novelty of the scene, and the ladies 
 retired to their f^partments to complete the hasty toilet of 
 their disembarkation, Captain Drawlock was very busy in 
 the counting-house belov;, with the master of the house. 
 There were so many jiipes of Madeira for the Honourable 
 Company ; so many for the directors' private cellars, be- 
 sides many other commissions for friends, which Captain 
 Drawlock had undertaken to execute ; for at that period 
 Madeira wine had not been so calumniated as it latterly 
 has been. 
 
 A word upon this subject. — I am a mortal enemy to 
 every description of humbug ; and I believe there is as 
 much in the medical world as in any other. Madeira wine 
 had for a century been in high and deserved reputation, 
 when on a sudden some fashionable jihysician discovers 
 that it contained more acid than sherry. Whether he was 
 a sleeping partner in some Spanish house, or whether he 
 had received a present of a few pipes of sherry, that he 
 might turn the scale of public favour towards that wine, I 
 know not ; but certain it is, that it became fashionable 
 with all medical gentlemen to prescribe sherry ; and when 
 once any thing becomes fashionable, c'est une affaire decide. 
 I do not pretend to be much of a pathologist ; but on 
 
 reading Mr. F- 's analysis on the component parts of 
 
 wine, I observed that in one hundred parts there are per- 
 haps twenty-two parts of acid in Madeira, and nineteen in 
 sherry ; so that, in fact, if you reduce your glass of Ma- 
 deira wine, just one sip in quantity, you will imbibe no 
 more acid than in a full glass of sherry ; and when we 
 consider the variety of acids in sugar and other compounds, 
 which abound in culinary preparations, the fractional 
 quantity upon Avhich has been grounded the abuse of Ma- 
 deira wine, appears to be most ridiculous. 
 
 '^But if not a pathologist, I have a most decided know- 
 ledge of what is good wine ; and if the gout should some 
 day honour me with a visit, I shall at least have the con-
 
 on, THE .MKKCHANT SERVICK. 231 
 
 solation to know that 1 have by potation most honestly 
 earned it. 
 
 But allowing that the medical gentlemen are correct, 
 still their good intentions are frustrated by the knavery of 
 the world ; and the result of their prescriptions is, that 
 people drink much more acid than they did before. I do 
 every justice to good old sherry when it does make its ap- 
 pearance at table ; it is a noble wine when aged and unso- 
 phisticated from its youth : but for once that you meet 
 with it genuine, you are twenty times disappointed. When 
 Madeira wine was in vogue, the island could not produce 
 the quantity required for consumption, and the vintage 
 from the north side of the island, or of TcnerifFe, was sub- 
 stituted. This adulteration no doubt was one cause of its 
 losing its well established reputation. But Madeira wine 
 has a quality which in itself proves its superiority over all 
 other wines — namely, that although no other wine can be 
 passed off as Madeira, yet with Madeira the wine-merchants 
 may imitate any other wine that is in demand. What is 
 the consequence ? that Madeira, not being any longer in 
 request as Madeira, now that sherry is the '' correct thing," 
 and there not being sufficient of the latter to meet the in- 
 creased demand, most of the wine vended as sherry is made 
 from the inferior Madeira wines. Reader, if you have 
 ever been in Spain, you may have seen the Xerez or sherry 
 wine brought from the mountains to be put into the cask. 
 A raw goat-skin, with the neck-part and the four legs 
 sewed up, forms a leathern bag, containing perhaps from 
 fifteen to twenty gallons. This is the load of one man, 
 who brings it down on his shoulder exposed to the burning 
 rays of the sun. When it arrives, it is thrown down on 
 the sand, to swelter in the heat with the rest and remains 
 there probably for days before it is transferred into the 
 cask. It is this proceeding which gives to sherry that pe- 
 culiar leather twang which distinguishes it from other 
 wines — a twang easy to imitate by throwing into a cask 
 of Cape wine a pair of old boots, and allowing them to re- 
 main a proper time. Although the public refuse to drink 
 Madeira, as Madeira, they are in fact drinking it in every 
 way disguised — as port, as sherry, &c. ; and it is a well- 
 Q 4
 
 2S2 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 known fact that the poorer wines from the north side of 
 the island are landed in the London Docks, and shipped 
 DfF to the Continent, from whence they reappear in bottles 
 is " peculiarly fine flavoured hock !" 
 
 Now, as it is only the indifferent wines which are thus 
 turned into sherry, — and the more inferior the wine, the 
 more acid it contains, — I think I have made out a clear case 
 that people are drinking more acid than they did before 
 this wonderful discovery of the medical gentlemen, who 
 have for some years led the public by the nose. 
 
 There are, however, some elderly persons of my ac- 
 quaintance who are not to be dissuaded from drinking 
 Madeira, but who continue to destroy themselves by the 
 use of this acid, which perfumes the room when the cork 
 is extracted. I did represent to one of them, that it was 
 a species of suicide, after what the doctors had discovered ; 
 but he replied, in a very gruff tone of voice, " May be, 
 sir; but you can't teach an old dog new tricks !" 
 
 1 consider that the public ought to feel very much in- 
 debted to me for this expose. Madeira wine is very low, 
 while sherry is high in price. They have only to purchase 
 a oask of Madeira and flavour it with Wellington boots or 
 ladies' slippers, as it may suit their palates. The former 
 will produce the high-coloured, the latter the pale sherry. 
 Further, I consider that the merchants of Madeira are 
 bound to send me a letter of thanks, with a pipe of Bual, 
 to prove its sincerity. Now I recollect Stoddart did 
 promise me some wine when he was last in England ; but 
 I suppose he has forgotten it. 
 
 But from the produce I must return to the island and 
 my passengers. The first day of their arrival they eat 
 their dinner, took their coffee, and returned to bed early 
 to enjoy a comfortable night after so many of constant 
 pitching and tossing. The next morning the ladies were 
 much better, and received the visits of all the captains of 
 the India ships, and also of the captain of the frigate who 
 escorted them. 
 
 The ofBcers of the Bombay Castle had been invited to 
 dinner ; and the first-mate jiot being inclined to leave the 
 ship, Newton had for one accepted the invitation. On hij
 
 on. Till-: MERCIIAXT SERVICE. 933 
 
 arrival he discovered in the captain of the frigate his 
 former acquaintance, C'aptain Carrington, in whose ship he 
 had obtained a passage from the A^^est Indies, and who on 
 the former being paid off had been appointed to the com- 
 mand of the Boadicea, Captain Carrington Avas delighted 
 to meet Newton ; and the attention which he paid to him, 
 added to the encomiums bestowed when Newton was out 
 of hearing, raised him very high in the opinion, not only 
 of Captain Drawlock, but also in the estimation of the 
 ladies. At the request of Captain Carrington Newton was 
 allowed to remain on shore till tlieir departure from the 
 island; and from this circumstance he became more inti- 
 mate with tlie ladies than he would in all probability have 
 otherwise been in the whole course of the voyage. 'We 
 must pass over the gallop up to Nostra Senhora da ]Monte, 
 an expedition opposed by C'aptain Drawlock on the score 
 of his responsibility ; but he was over-ruled by Captain 
 Carrington, who declared that Newton and he were quite 
 sufficient convoy, ^Ve must pass over the many compli- 
 ments paid to Isabel Revel by Captain Carrington. who 
 appeared desperately in love after an acquaintance of four- 
 and-twenty hours, and who discovered a defect in the 
 Boadicea which would occupy two or three clays to make 
 good, that he might be longer in her company ; but we 
 will not pass over one circumstance which occurred during 
 their week's sojourn at "this delightful island. 
 
 A certain Portuguese lady of noble birth had been left a 
 widow with two daughters, and a fine estate to share be- 
 tween them. The daughters were handsome ; but the 
 estate was so much handsomer, that it set all the man- 
 dolins of the Portuguese inamoratos strumming under the 
 windows of the lady's abode from sunset to the dawn 
 of day. 
 
 Now it did so occur that a young English clerk in a 
 mercantile house, who had a fresh complexion and a clean 
 shirt to boast of (qualifications unknown to the Portuguese), 
 won the heart of the eldest daugliter ; and the old lady, 
 who was not a very strict Catholic, gave her consent to this^ 
 heretical union. The Catholic priests, who had long been 
 trying to persuade the old lady to shut up her daughters
 
 234 NEWTON FOKSTKR ; 
 
 in a convent^ and endow the church with her property, 
 expressed a holy indignation at the intended marriage. 
 The Portuguese gentlemen, who could not brook the idea 
 of so many fair hills of vines going away to a stranger 
 were equally indignant : in short, the whole Portuguese 
 population of the island were in arms ; but the old lady, 
 whp had always contrived to have her way before her hus- 
 band's death, was not inclined to be thwarted now that she 
 was her own mistress ; and, notwithstanding threats and 
 expostulations from all quarters, she awaited but the arrival 
 of an English man-of-war that the ceremony might be 
 performed, there being at that time no Protestant cler- 
 gyman on the island ; for the reader must know that a 
 marriage on board of a king's ship, by the captain duly 
 entered in the log-book, is considered as valid as if the 
 ceremony were performed by the Archbishop of Canterbury. 
 
 I once married a couple on board of a little ten-gun brig 
 of wJiicli I condescended to take the command, to oblige 
 the first lord of the Admiralty ; offered, I believe to provide 
 for me, and rid the Board of all future solicitations for 
 employment or promotion. 
 
 It was one of my sailors, who had come to a determin- 
 ation to make an honest woman of Poll and an ass of him- 
 self, at one and the same time. The ceremony took place 
 on the quarter-deck. " Who gives this woman away?" 
 said I, with due emphasis, according to the ritual. "^ I 
 do," cried the boatswain in a gruff voice, taking the said 
 lady by the arm and shoving her towards me, as if he 
 thought her not worth keeping. Every thing went on 
 seriously, nevertheless. The happy pair were kneeling 
 down on the union-jack, which had been folded on the 
 deck in consideration of the lady's knees, and I was in the 
 middle of the blessing, when two jiigs which we had pro- 
 cured at St. Jaco's, being then off that island (creatures 
 more like English pigs on stilts than any thing else, unless 
 you could imagine a cross between a pig and a greyhound), 
 in the lightness of their hearts and happy ignorance of 
 their doom, took a frisk, as you often see pigs do on shore, 
 commenced a run from forward right aft, and galloping to 
 the spot where we were all collected, rushed against the
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. ^35 
 
 two just made one, destroying their centre of gravity, and 
 upsetting them ; and, indeed, destroying the gravity and 
 upsetting the seriousness of myself and the Avhole of the 
 
 ship's company. The lady recovered her legs, d d 
 
 the pigs, and, taking her husband's arm, hastened down the 
 hatchAvay ; so that I lost the kiss to which I was entitled 
 for my services. I consoled myself by the reflection that, 
 " please the pigs," I might be more fortunate the next 
 time that 1 officiated in my clerical capacity. This is a 
 digression I grant, but I cannot help it ; it is the nature 
 of man to digress. Who can say that he has through life 
 kept in the straight path? This is a world of digression ; 
 and I beg that critics will take no notice of mine, as I 
 have an idea that my digressions in this work are as agree- 
 able to my readers, as my digressions in life have been 
 agreeable to myself. 
 
 When Captain Carrington anchored with his convoy in 
 Funchal roads, immediate application was made by the 
 parties for the ceremony to be performed on board of his 
 ship. It is true that, as Mr. Ferguson had arrived, it 
 might have taken place on shore ; but it was considered 
 advisable, to avoid interruption and insult, that the parties 
 should be under the sanctuary of a British man-of-war. 
 On the fourth day after the Boadicea's arrival the cere- 
 mony was performed on board of her by Mr. Ferguson ; 
 and the passengers of the Bombay, residing at the house 
 of Mr. , who was an intimate friend of the bride- 
 groom, received and accepted the invitation to the marriage- 
 dinner. The feast was splendid, and after the Portuguese 
 custom. The first course was boiled : it consisted of boiled 
 beef, boiled mutton, boiled hams, boiled tongues, boiled 
 bacon, boiled fowls, boiled turkeys, boiled sausages, boiled 
 cabbages, boiled potatoes, and boiled carrots. Duplicates 
 of each were ranged in opposition, until the table groaned 
 with its superincumbent weight. All were cut up, placed 
 in one dish, and handed round to the guests. When they 
 drank wine, every glass was filled, and every body who 
 filled his glass was expected to drink the health of every 
 guest separately and by name before he emptied it. The 
 first course was removed, and the second made its appear-
 
 236 NEVFTON FOIISTI R J 
 
 ance, all roasted. Roast beef, roast veal, roast mutton, 
 roast Iamb, roast joints of pork, roasted turkeys, roasted 
 fowls, roasted sausages, roasted every thing ; the centre dish 
 being a side of a large hog, rolled up like an enormous 
 fillet of veal. Thi^ too was done ample justice to by the 
 Portuguese part of the company, at least, and all was 
 cleared away for the dessert, consisting of oranges, melons, 
 pine-apples, guavas, citrons, bananas, peaclies, strawberries, 
 apples, pears, and indeed of almost every fruit which can 
 be found in the whole world, all of which appear to na- 
 turalise themselves at Madeira. It was now supposed by 
 the uninitiated that the dinner Avas over ; but not so ; the 
 dessert wa^ cleared away, and on cume an hustc7'on p^'Otcron 
 medley of pies and puddings, in all their varieties, smoking 
 hot, boiled and baked, custards and sweetmeats, cheese and 
 olives, fruits of all kinds preserved, and a hundred other 
 things, from which the gods preserve us ! At last the feast 
 was really over ; the Portuguese picked their teeth with 
 their forks, and the wine was circulated briskly. On such 
 an occasion as the marriage of her daughter, the old lady 
 had resolved to take a pipe of Madeira, Avhich was, at the 
 very least, fifty years old, very fine in flavour, but, from 
 having been so long in the wood, little inferior in strength 
 to genuine Cogniac. The consequence was, that many of 
 the gentlemen became noisy before the dinner was over ; 
 and their mirth was increased to positive uproar upon a 
 message being sent by the bishop, ordering upon pain of 
 excommunication, that the ceremony should proceed no 
 further. The ladies retired to the withdrawing room ; the 
 gentlemen soon followed ; but the effects of the wine were 
 so apparent upon most of them, that Captain Drawlock 
 summoned Newton to his assistance, and was in a state of 
 extreme anxiety until his ^' responsibilities'" were safe at 
 home. Shortly afterwards. Captain Carrington and those 
 who were the least affected, by persuasion or force, re- 
 moved the others from the house ; and the bridal party 
 were left to themselves, to deliberate whether they should 
 or should not obey the preposterous demands of the reve- 
 rend bishop. 
 
 Captain Carrington was excessively fond of a joke, and
 
 i)ii, Tin: .MiJiJciJANT SERVICE. xJ37 
 
 never lost the oppoi'tiinity when it occurred ; now it hap- 
 pened, that in the party invited there was a merchant of 
 the name of Sullivan, who, upon his last visit to England, 
 had returned with a very pretty, and at the same time, 
 a very coquettish young lady as his wife. It happened, in 
 the casualties of a large dinner party, that the old colonel 
 (Ellice was his name, if I have not mentioned it before) 
 was seated next to her, and, as usual, was remarkably at- 
 tentive. Mr. Sullivan, like many otlicr gentlemen, was 
 very inattentive to his wife, and, unlike most Irishmen, 
 was very jealous of her. The very marked attention of the 
 colonel had not escaped his notice ; neither did his fidget- 
 ing upon this occasion escape the notice of those about him, 
 who were aware of his disposition. The poor colonel was 
 one of those upon whose brain the wine had taken the most 
 effect, and it was not until after sundry falls, and being 
 again placed upon his legs, that he had been conveyed home, 
 
 between Captain Carrington and Mr. , the merchant at 
 
 whose house the party from the Bombay Castle were re- 
 siding. The ensuing morning he did not make his ap- 
 pearance at breakfast ; and tlie gentlemen residing on the 
 island, commenting upon the events of the evening before, 
 declared in a joking way that they should not be surprised 
 at Mr. Sullivan sending him a challenge in the course of 
 the morning ; that was, if he was up so soon, as he had 
 quitted the house in a greater state of inebriety than even 
 the colonel. It was upon this hint that Captain Carrington 
 j)roposed to have some amusement ; and having arranged 
 with one of the junior partners of the house, he went into 
 the room of the colonel, whom he found still in bed. 
 
 " Well, colonel, how do you find yourself.-^ " said Cap- 
 tain Carrington, when he had roused him. 
 
 '' Oh ! very bad indeed : my head is ready to split : 
 never felt such a sensation in my head before, except when 
 I was struck with a spent ball at the battle of' 
 
 " I am very sorry for your headache, colonel, but more 
 sorry that the wine should have played you such a trick 
 last night." 
 
 " Trick indeed ! " replied the colonel ; " I was com-
 
 238 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 pletely overcome : I do not recollect a word that passed 
 after I had quitted the dinner table." 
 
 " Are you serious ? Do you not recollect the scene with 
 Mrs. Sullivan ? " 
 
 " Mrs. Sullivan ! My dear sir, what scene r I certainly 
 paid every attention due to a very pretty woman ; but I re- 
 collect no further." 
 
 " Not the scene in the drawing-room ? " 
 
 " God bless me ! — No — I do not even recollect ever 
 going into the drawing-room ! Pray teU me what I said or 
 did : I hope nothing improper." 
 
 ''^ Why that depends very much whether a lady likes it 
 or not : but in the presence of so many people '' 
 
 " ]\Ierciful pov/ers ! Captain Carrington, pray let me 
 know at once what folly it was that I committed." 
 
 " Why, really, I am almost ashamed to enter into par- 
 ticulars : sufBce to say, that you used most unwarrantable 
 freedom towards her." 
 
 '• Is it possible ? " cried the colonel. — " Now, Captain 
 Carrington, are you not joking.'' " 
 
 " Ask this gentleman ; he was present." 
 
 The assertion of the captain was immediately corrobo- 
 rated, and the colonel was quite aghast. 
 
 " Excuse me, gentlemen, I will run immediately — that 
 abominable wine ; I must go and make a most ample 
 apology. I am bound to do it, as a gentleman, as an officer, 
 and as a man of honour." 
 
 Captain Carrington and his confederate quitted the room, 
 satisfied with the success of their plot. The colonel rose, 
 and soon afterwards made his appearance. He swallowed 
 a cup of coffee, and then proceeded on his visit, to make 
 the amende honorable. 
 
 ^I^hen Mr. Sullivan awoke from the lethargy produced 
 from the stupefying effects of the wine, he tried to recollect 
 the circumstances of the preceding evening ; but he could 
 trace no further than to the end of the dinner, after which 
 his senses had been overpowered. All that he could' call to 
 memory was, that somebody had paid great attention to his 
 wife, and that what had passedafterwardswasunknown. This 
 occasioned him to rise in a very jealous humour ; and he
 
 OR, TI[E BIERCHANT SKRVICE. 239 
 
 had not been up more than an hour, when the colonel sent 
 up his card, requesting, as a particular favour that the lady 
 woidd admit him. 
 
 The card and messenger were taken by the pervant,to 
 Mr. Sullivan, whose jealousy was again roused by the cu- 
 cumstance ; and wishing to know if the person who had 
 now called was the same who had been so attentive to his 
 wife on the preceding evening, and the motives of the call, 
 he requested that the colonel might' be shown in, without 
 acquainting his wife, whom he had not yet seen, with his 
 arrival. The colonel, who intended to have made an apology 
 to the lady without the presence of a third person, least of 
 all of her husband, ascended the stairs, adjusting his hair 
 and cravat, and prepared with all the penitent assurance 
 and complimentary excuses of a too ardent lover. The 
 fact Avas, that, although the colonel had expressed to Cap- 
 tain Carrington his regret and distress at the circumstance, 
 yet, as an old Adonis, he was rather proud of this instance 
 of juvenile indiscretion. When therefore he entered the 
 room, and perceived, instead of the lady, Mr. Sullivan 
 raised up to his utmost height, and looking any thing but 
 good humoured, he naturally started back, and stammered 
 out something which was unintelligible. His behaviour did 
 not allay the suspicions of Mr. Sullivan, wlio requested, in 
 a haughty tone, to be informed of the re-ason why he had 
 been honoured with a visit. The colonel became more 
 confused, and totally losing his presence of mind, re- 
 plied : — 
 
 "J called, sir, — on Mrs. Sullivan, — to offer an apology 
 for my conduct last night ; but as I perceive that she is 
 not visible, I will take a more favourable opportunity." 
 
 ''Any apology you may have to offer to my wife, sir," 
 replied Mr. Sullivan, '^ may be confided to me. May I 
 inquire the circumstances which have occurred to render ai' 
 apology necessary ? " and Mr. Sullivan walked to the dooj 
 and closed it. 
 
 " Why, really, ]\Ir. Sullivan, you must be aware thai 
 circunnstsnces may occur," replied the colonel, more con- 
 fv.sed : " the fact is, that I consider it my duty, as a gen-
 
 240 NEWTON FORSTEB ; 
 
 tleman and a man of honour, to express ray regrets to youi 
 fair lady." 
 
 " My fair lady ! for what, sir, may I ask ? " 
 " Why, sir," stammered the colonel, " to state the truth, 
 for, as a gentleman, and a man of honour, I ought not to 
 be ashamed to acknowledge my error — for — the very 
 improper behaviour which I was guihy of last night." 
 
 " Improper behaviour, sir ! — d — nation ! with my 
 wife ? " roared Mr. Sullivan, in his rage. " What be- 
 haviour, sir ? and when, sir ? " 
 
 " Really, sir, I was too much affected with the wine to 
 know any thing which passed. I did hope to have 
 addressed tlie lady in person on the subject, and I came 
 here with that intention." 
 " I dare say you did, sir ? " 
 
 " But," continued the colonel, " as it appears I am not 
 to have that honour, 1 consider that I have done my duty 
 in requesting that you will convey my sentiments of regret 
 for what has passed ; — and, now, sir, I wish you a good 
 morning." 
 
 "Good morning," retorted tlae Imsbandj with a sneer; 
 ' and observe, sir, I will not trouble you to call again, 
 ^^illiam, show this gentleman outside the door." 
 
 The colonel, who was descending the stairs, turned 
 round to Mr. Sullivan at the latter part of his speech, and 
 then, as if thinking better of it, he resumed his descent, 
 and the door was immediately closed upon him. 
 
 Mr. Sullivan, as soon as he was satisfied that the colonel 
 was shut out, immediately repaired to his wife's dressing- 
 room, where he found her reading. 
 
 " Madam," said he, fixing his eyes sternly on her, " I 
 have been informed of what took place last night." 
 
 " I 'm sure I do not know what that was," replied the 
 lady, coolly, " except that you were very tipsy." 
 
 "Granted, madam : you took advantage of it; and your 
 
 conduct ' 
 
 " My conduct, Mr. Sullivan ! " replied his wife, kindling 
 with anger. 
 
 " Yes, Mrs. Sullivan, your conduct. A married woman^ 
 madam, who allows gentlemen "
 
 OR, niE MERCHANT SKRVICIO. 24 i 
 
 " Gentlemen, Mr. Sullivan ! I allow no gentlemen but 
 yourself. Are you sure that you are quite sober ? " 
 
 '' Yes, madam, I am ; but this affected coolness will 
 not avail you : deny, if you can, that Colonel Ellice did 
 not last night " 
 
 " Well, then, I do deny it. Neither Colonel Ellice nor 
 any other man ever did " 
 
 *' Did what, madam ? " interrupted the husljand, in a 
 rage. 
 
 " I was going to observe, if you liad not interrupted me, 
 that no one was wanting in proper respect towards me." 
 replied the lady, who grew more cool as her husband in- 
 creased in choler. " Pray, Mr. Sullivan, may I inquire who 
 is the author of this slander ? " 
 
 " The author, madam ! look at me — to your confusion 
 look at me ! " 
 
 " Well, I 'm looking." 
 
 " 'T was, madam — the colonel himself." 
 
 " The colonel himself ! " 
 
 " Yes, madam, the colonel himself, who called this 
 morning to see you, and renew the intimacy, I presume; 
 but, by mistake, was shown up to me, and then made an 
 apology for his conduct." 
 
 "It's excessively strange! first the colonel is rude, 
 without my knowledge, and then apologises to you ! Mr 
 Sullivan, I'm afraid that jour head is not right this 
 morning " 
 
 " Indeed, madam, I only wish that your heart was as 
 sound," replied the husband with a sneer ; " but, madam, 
 I am not quite blind. An honest woman — a virtuous 
 woman, Mrs. Sullivan, would have immediately acquainted 
 her husband with what had passed — not have concealed 
 it ; still less have had the efFrontei y to deny it, when ac- 
 knowledged by her paramour." 
 
 " Paramour ! " cried the lady, with an hysterical laugh ; 
 " Mr. Sullivan ! when I select a paramour, it shall be a 
 handsome young man — not an old, yellow-faced " 
 
 "Pshaw, madam! there's no accounting for taste; 
 when once a woman deviates from the right path " 
 
 " Right path ! if ever I deviated from the right path,
 
 242 NEWTON KOUSTEB J 
 
 as you call it, it was when I married such u wretch as 
 you ! Yes, sir! " continued tiie lady, bursting into tears, 
 " I tell it you now — my life has been a torment to me ever 
 since I married (sobbing) — always suspected for nothing 
 (sob, sob) — jealous, detestable temper (sob) — go to my 
 friends (sob) — hereafter may repent (sob) — then know 
 what you 've lost " (sob, sob, sob). 
 
 " And, madam," replied Mr, Sullivan, " so may you 
 also know what you have lost, before a few hours have 
 passed away ; then, madam, the time may come when the 
 veil of folly will be rent from your eyes, and your conduct 
 appear in all its deformity. Farewell, madam — perhaps 
 for ever ! " 
 
 The lady made no reply ; Mr. Sullivan quitted the room, 
 and, repairing to his counting-house, wrote a challenge to 
 the colonel, and confided the delivery of it to one of his 
 friends, who unwillingly accepted the office of second. 
 
 CHAPTER XVII. 
 
 He's truly valiant, that can wisely suffer 
 
 The. worst that man can breatlie, and make his wrongs 
 
 His outsides ; to wear them, like his raiment, carelessly. 
 
 And ne'er prefer his injuries to his heart, 
 
 To bring it into danger. Siiakspkare. 
 
 The colonel, in the meantime, had returned to the house 
 where he was residing, when he was immediately accosted 
 by Captain Carrington, and the other gentlemen who had 
 been let into the secret of the plot. During his walk home 
 the colonel had been ruminating on his dismissal, and had 
 not quite made up his mind whether he ought or ought 
 not to resent the conduct of Mr. ojullivan. Naturally more 
 inclined for peace than war, by the time tliat he arrived 
 home he had resolved to pocket the affront, when Captain 
 Carrington called him on one side, and obtained from him 
 a recapitulation of what had passed ; which probably never 
 would have been given if the colonel had not considered the 
 communication as confidential. This, however, did not
 
 ORj THE MEltCHANT SERVICE. 248 
 
 suit the intentions of Captain Carrington, who felt indined 
 for more mischief; and when the colonel had concluded 
 his narrative^ he replied^ " Upon my word^ colonel, as you 
 observe, this conduct on the part of Mr. Sullivan, is not 
 exactly what can be permitted by us military men. I 
 hardly know hov/ to advise ; indeed I would not take the 
 
 responsibility ; however, I will consult with Mr. S 
 
 and Mr. G , and if you will leave your honour in our 
 
 hands, depend upon it we wiU do you strict justice : '' and 
 Captain Carrington quitted the colonel, who would have 
 expostulated, and, walking up to the other gentlemen, 
 entered into a recapitulation of the circumstances. A wink 
 of his eye, as his back was turned to the colonel, fully ex- 
 pressed to the others the tenor of the advice which they 
 were to offer, 
 
 "" Well, gentlemen, what is your opinion ? " said the 
 captain, as he concluded his narrative. 
 
 " I think," replied Mr. S , with a serious face, 
 
 " there can be but one — our gallant friend has been most 
 grossly insulted. I think," continued he, addressing the 
 colonel, who had quitted the sofa, in his anxiety to know 
 the issue of their debate, " that I should most decidedly 
 ask him what he meant." 
 
 " Or rathei: demand an apology," observed Mr. G . 
 
 " Which Mr. Sullivan as a man of honour is bound to 
 offer, and the colonel as a gentleman and an officer has a 
 right to insist upon. Do you not think so, Captain Car 
 rington }" said Mr. S . 
 
 ' Why, I always have been more inclined to be a peace- 
 maker than otherwise, if I can," replied Captain Carring- 
 ton. " If our gallant friend the colonel is not sure that 
 Mr. Sullivan did use the words, ' I won't trouble you to 
 call again, — are you positive as to the exact words, 
 colonel } " 
 
 " Why, to the best of my recollection," replied the 
 colonel, " I rather think those were the words. — I may 
 be mistaken : — it was certainly — most certainly some- 
 thing to that effect." 
 
 "Were they, '^requesting you to call again?'" said 
 Captani Carrington.
 
 244 NEWTON' FORSTER j 
 
 •■ No, nOj — that they certainly were not." 
 
 *' Well, they could be but one or the other. — Then, 
 gentlemen, the case is clear — the words were uttered," 
 
 said Mr. S " Now, Captain Carrington, what would 
 
 you advise.''" 
 
 " I really am vexed to say, that I do not see how our 
 friend. Colonel Ellice, can do otherwise than demand an 
 apology, or a meeting." 
 
 " Coujd not I treat him with contempt, Captain Car ■ 
 rington?" demanded the colonel. 
 
 " Why, not exactly," replied Mr. S " Sullivan is 
 
 of good family ; the Sullivans of Bally cum Poop. He 
 was some time in the 48th regiment, and was obliged to 
 retire from it for challenging his colonel." 
 
 " Well, gentlemen," repHed the colonel, '' I suppose I 
 must leave my honour in your hands, although it does 
 appear to me that our time is very short for such arrange- 
 ments. We sail early to-morrow morning ; Captain Car- 
 rington ; at daylight, I think you said, and it wiU be too 
 late to-night." 
 
 " My dear colonel, I will risk a rebuke from the Ad- 
 miralty," replied the captain, " rather than not allow you 
 to heal your wounded honour. I will stay till the day 
 after to-morrow, should it be requisite for the arrangement 
 of this business." 
 
 " Thank you : many thanks," replied the colonel, with 
 an expression of disappointment. " Then I had better 
 prepare the letter } " 
 
 " Carta por senhor commandante," interrupted a Poi. 
 tuguese, presenting a letter to the colonel ; " O senhor em- 
 baixo ; queir risposta." 
 
 The colonel opened the letter, which contained Mr, 
 Sullivan's challenge, — pistols — to-morrow morn, at 
 daylight — one mile on the road to Machico. 
 
 The colcsel's countenance changed two or three shades 
 less yellow as he read the contents : recovering himself 
 with a giggle, he handed the letter to Captain Carrington. 
 '• You see, captain, the gentleman has saved m.e the 
 trouble — He, he, he ! these little affairs are common to 
 gentlemen of our profession : — He, he ! and since the
 
 OR THE MEKCHANT SERVICE. 24-3 
 
 gentleman wishes it, why, I presume — He, he! that we 
 must not disappoint him." 
 
 " Since you are both of one mind, I think there will 
 
 be some business done," observed ]\Ir. S . " I perceive 
 
 that he is in earnest by the place named for the meeting. 
 We generally settle our affairs of honour in the Loo-fields ; 
 but I suppose he is afraid of interruption. — They want 
 an answer, colonel." 
 
 " Oh ! he shall have one," replied the colonel, titter- 
 ing with excitement ; " he shall have one. What hour 
 does he say ? " 
 
 "Oh! we will arrange all that. Come, colonel," said 
 Captain Carrington, taking him familiarly by the arm, and 
 leading him away. 
 
 The answer was despatched, and they sat down to 
 dinner. Many were the friendly and encouraging glasses 
 of wine drank with the colonel, who recovered his confi- 
 dence, and was then most assidious in his attentions to the 
 ladies to prove liis perfect indifference. He retired at an 
 early hour nevertheless. 
 
 In the mean time Mr. Sullivan had received the answer, 
 and had retired to his counting-house, to arrange his 
 affairs in case of accident. He had not seen his wife since 
 the fracas. And now we will leave them both for awhile^ 
 and make a few remarks upon duelling. 
 
 Most people lament, many abuse the custom as bar- 
 barous ; but barbarous it is not, or it would not be 
 necessary in a state of higli civilisation. It is true that 
 by the practice we offend laws human and divine ; but at 
 the same time, it must be acknowledged, that neither law 
 nor religion can keep society in such good order, or so re- 
 strain crime. The man who would defy the penalty of 
 the law, and thes ommandments of his God against seduc- 
 tion, will, however pause in his career when he finds that 
 there are brothers to avenge an injured sister. And why 
 so? — becaue in this world we live as it were in a 
 tavern, careless of what the bill is which we run up, but 
 dreading the day of reckoning, which the pistol of our ad- 
 versary may bring at once. Thus duelling may be consi- 
 dered as a necessary evil, arising out of our wickedness ; 
 B, 3
 
 24-6 ffEWTON FORSTER j 
 
 a crime iii itself rare in occurrence, but whicli prevents 
 others of equal magnitude from occurring every day ; and 
 until the world is reformed, nothing can prevent it. Men 
 will ever be governed by the estimation of the world : and 
 until the whole world decide against duelling — until it 
 has become the usage to offer the other cheek upon the 
 first having been smitten, then, and not till then, will the 
 practice be discontinued. When a man refuses to fight a 
 duel, he is stigmatised as a coward, his company is 
 shunned ; and, unless he is a wretch without feeling, his 
 life becomes a burden. Men have refused from purely 
 conscientious motives, and have subsequently found them- 
 selves so miserable from the neglect and contumely of the 
 world, that they have hackslided, and have fought to re- 
 cover their place in society. There have been some few, 
 very few, who, having refused from conscientious motives, 
 have adhered to these resolutions, because they feared God 
 and not man. There was more courage in their refusal 
 than if they had run the gantlet of a hundred duels ; a 
 moral courage, whicli is most rare, preferring the contempt 
 of man to the wrath of God. It is, however, the most 
 trying situation on this side of the grave. To refuse to 
 fight a duel, is in fact to obey the stern injunction, " leave 
 all, and follow me." 
 
 For my part, I never have and never v/iU fight a duel, 
 if I can help it. I have a double motive for my refusal ; 
 in the first place, I am afraid to ofiend the Deity ; and in 
 the next, I am afraicL of being shot. I have therefore 
 made up my mind never to meet a man excejjt upon what 
 1 consider fair terms ; for when a man stakes his life, the 
 gambling becomes rather serious, and an equal value should 
 be laid down by each party. If, then, a man is not so big 
 — not of equal consequence in the consideration of his 
 fellow mites — not married, with five small children, as I 
 am — not having so much to lose — Avhy it is clear that 
 1 risk more than he does ; the stake is not equal, and I 
 therefore shall not meet him. If, on the contrary, he pre- 
 sents a broader target, — if he is my superior in rank, 
 more patriarchal at home, or has so many hundreds 
 per annum more, why then the disadvantages will be on his
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE 247 
 
 side ; and I trust I am too much of a gentleioan, even if 
 lie offers to waive all these considerations, to periiut hira tc 
 fight. It would be swindling the man out of his life. 
 
 The best advice I can offer to my friends under these 
 unpleasant circumstances is, first to try if they cannot per- 
 suade their adversaries to make an apology : and if he will 
 not, why tlien let them make one themselves ; for although 
 the making an apology creates a very uneasy sensation, and 
 goes very much against the stomach, yet, depend upon it, 
 a well-directed bullet creates a much more uneasy feeling, 
 and, what is worse, goes directly into it. 
 
 Wg left Mrs. Sullivan sobbing in her anger, when her 
 husband bounded out of the room in his heroics. At the 
 time that he made the threat she was in no humour to 
 regard it ; but as her anger gradually subsided, so did her 
 alarm increa e. Notwithstanding that she was acoquette, she 
 was as warmly attached to her husband as he was to her ; 
 if she trifled, it was only for her amusement, and to attract 
 that meed of admiration to which she had been accustomed 
 previous to her marriage, and which no woman can re- 
 nounce on her first entry into that state. Men cannot 
 easily pardon jealousy in their wives ; but women are more 
 lenient towards their husbands. Love, hand-in-hand with 
 confidence, is the more endearing; yet, when confidence 
 happens to be out of the way, Love will sometimes associate 
 with Jealousy ; still, as this disagreeable companion proves 
 that Love is present, and as his presence is what a woman 
 and ail a woman asks, she suffers Jealousy, nay, sometimes 
 even becomes partial to iiim for the sake of Love. 
 
 Now that Mrs. Sullivan had been most unjustly accused, 
 the reader must know, and moreover, that she had great 
 reason to feel irritated. "W^hen her tears had subsided, 
 for some time she continued in her chair, awaiting with 
 predetermined dignity the appearance and apology of Mr. 
 Sullivan. After some time had elapsed, she wondered 
 why he did not come. LUnner was announced, and she 
 certainly cNpected to meet him then, and she waited for 
 some minutes to see if he would not take this opportunity 
 of coming up to her ; — lut no. She then presumed that 
 he was still in the sulks, and had sat down to table without 
 31 4«
 
 248 Newton PoftsxEU ; 
 
 her;, and therefore, as he would not come — why^ she 
 -went ; but he was not at the table. Every minute she 
 expected him : — Had he been told ? — Where was he? 
 
 — He was in the counting-house, was the reply. Mrs. 
 Sullivan swallowed a few mouthfuls, and then returned up 
 stairs. Tea was made — announced to Mr Sulhvan, yet 
 he came not. It remained on the table; the cup poured 
 out for him was cold. The urn had been sent down, with 
 strict injunctions to keep the water boiling, and all was 
 cleared away. Mrs. Sullivan fidgeted and ruminated, and 
 became uneasy. He never had been at variance for so 
 many hours since their marriage, and all for nothing ! At 
 last the clock struck ten, and she rang the bell. — " NV^here 
 was Mr. Sullivan ?" — " In the counting-house." — " Tell 
 him that I wish to speak with him." Mr. Sullivan had 
 not answered him, and the door was locked inside. This 
 intelligence created a little irritation, and checked the tide 
 of affection. '' Before all the servants — so inconsiderate 
 
 — it was quite insulting!'' With a heavy heart, Mrs. 
 Sullivan lighted the chamber candle, and went up stairs to 
 bed. Once she turned down the stairs two or three steps, 
 intending to go to the counting-house door ; but her pride 
 restrained her, and she re-ascended. In an hour Mrs. 
 Sullivan was in bed, expecting her husband every minutCj 
 listenhig at the slightest sound for his footstep ; but two 
 o'clock came and he was still away. She could bear up 
 against her suspense and agitation no longer ; she rose, 
 threw on her robe dc nuit, and descended the stairs. AU 
 the family had long retired, and every thing was still : 
 her light foot made no noise as she tripped along. As 
 she neared the door, she perceived the light gleaming 
 through the key-hole. "\Fhether to peep or to speak first — 
 he might be fast asleej). Curiosity prevailed — she looked 
 through the key-hole, and perceived her husband very 
 busy writing. After he had finished his letter he threw 
 down the pen, pressed his forehead with both hands, and 
 groaned deeply. Mrs. Sullivan could refrain no longer. 
 ''William! William!" cried she, in a soft imploring 
 voice : but she was not ansAvered. Again and again did 
 she repeat his name, until an answer, evidently wrung from 
 him by impatience, was returned — "It is too late now."
 
 on, TIIK MERCHANl SKllVICK. 249 
 
 " Too late, clear William ! Yes, it is very late, it's 
 almost three o'clock. Let me in William, — pray do !" 
 
 " Leave me alone : it's the last favour I probably shall 
 ever request of you." 
 
 " The last favour ' Oh, William ! you frighten me 
 so : — dear William • ^ do — do let me in. I'm so cold, 
 I shall die: — only for one moment, and I'll bless you. 
 Pray do, William ! " 
 
 It was not until after repeated and repeated entreaties of 
 this kind, that Mr. Sullivan, worn out by importunity, at 
 last opened the door. 
 
 " Mary, I am very busy ; I have opened the door to 
 tell you so, and to request tliat you will not interrupt me. 
 Now oblige me by going to bed." 
 
 But getting in was every thing ; and a young and 
 pretty wife, in dishabille and in tears, imploring, entreating, 
 conjuring, promising, coaxing, and fondling, is not quite so 
 easy to be detached when once she has gained access. In 
 less than half an hour Mr. Sullivan was obliged to confess 
 that her conduct had been the occasion of a meeting being 
 agreed for upon that morning, and that he was arranging 
 his affairs in case of a melancholy termination. 
 
 " You now, Mary, must see the consequences of your 
 conduct. By your imjirudence, your husband's life is 
 risked, probably sacrificed ; but this is no time to be at 
 variance. I forgive you, Mary, — from my soul, I do, as I 
 hope for pardon myself." 
 
 Mrs. Sullivan burst into a paroxysm of tears ; and it 
 was some time before she could answer. " William," 
 cried she energetically, "as you well say, this is no time to 
 oe at variance, neither is it a time for falsehood. AV'hat I 
 stated to you this morning was true : — if not, may I 
 never hope for pardon ! and may Heaven never be opened 
 to me ! You have been deceived, grossly deceived ; for 
 what purpose, I know not ; but so it is. Do not therefore 
 be rash. Send for all who were present, and examine 
 them ; and if I have told you a falsehood, put me away 
 from you, to thf; shame and seclusion I shall so well 
 deserve." 
 
 " It is too late, Mary ; I have challenged him, and he
 
 y50 NEWTON forster; 
 
 has accepted it. I fain would believe you ; but he told 
 me so himself." 
 
 " Then he told a lie ! a base cowardly lie ! which sinks 
 him beneath the notice of a gentleman. Let me go with 
 you and confront him. Only let him dare to say it to 
 my face : 't is all I ask, William, that 1 may clear my 
 fame with you. Come to bed — nay, nay, don 't refuse 
 me ;" and poor Mrs. Sullivan again burst into tears. 
 
 We must leave the couple to pass the remaining hours 
 in misery, which, however, reclaimed them both from 
 faults. Mrs. SulUvan never coquetted more, and her hus- 
 band was, after this, never jealous but on trifles. 
 
 The colonel was just as busy on his side, in jn-eparing 
 for the chances of the morrow: these chances however 
 were never tried ; for Captain Carrington and his con- 
 federates had made their arrangements. Mr. Sullivan was 
 already dressed, his wife clinging to him in frantic despair, 
 when a letter was left at his door, the purport of which was 
 that Colonel Ellice had discovered that his companions had 
 been joking with him, when they had asserted that during 
 his state of inebriety, he had offered any rudeness to Mrs. 
 Sullivan. As therefore no offence had been committed. 
 Colonel Ellice took it for granted that Mr. Sullivan would be 
 satisfied with the explanation. 
 
 Mrs. Sullivan, who devoured the writing over her hus- 
 band's shoulder, sunk down on her knees in gratitude, and 
 was raised to her husband's arms, who, as he embraced her, 
 acknowledged his injustice. 
 
 The same party who wrote this epistle also framed an- 
 other in imitation of Mr. Sullivan's hand-writing, in which 
 Mr. Sullivan acquainted the Colonel, that having been 
 informed by a mutual friend that he had been in error 
 relative to Colonel Ellice's behaviour of the night before, 
 he begged to withdraw the challenge, and apologise for 
 having suspected the colonel of incivility, &c. That hav- 
 ing been informed that Colonel Ellice embarked at an early 
 hour, he regretted that he would not be able to pay his re- 
 spects to him, and assure him, &c. 
 
 The receipt of this letter, just as the colonel had 
 ^nished a cup of coffee, preparatory to starting, made him.
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 
 
 251 
 
 as a single man, quite as happy as the married couple ; he 
 hastened to put the letter into the hands of Captain Car- 
 rington, little thinking that he was handing it over to the 
 writer. 
 
 " You observe, Captain Carrington, he won't come to 
 the scratch. Perhaps as well for him that he does not " 
 said the colonel, chuckling in his glee. 
 
 The breakfast was early ; the colonel talked big, and 
 explained the whole affair to the ladies, quite unconscious 
 that every one in the company knew that the hoax had 
 been played upon him. Before noon, every one had re- 
 embarked on board of their respective ships, and their 
 lofty sails were expanded to a light and favouring breeze. 
 
 CHAPTER XVIII. 
 
 Isabel. Any where to avoid matrimony : the thought of a husband is 
 terrible to me. 
 
 Jnis. Hut if you might choose for yourself, I fancy matrimony would be no 
 such frightful thing to you. 
 
 The n'onder ' 
 
 The Boadicea, with the Indiamen, proceeded on to their 
 destination, Captain Carrington taking every opportunity 
 which light winds and smooth water afforded him, of pay- 
 ing his respects to the ladies on board of the Bombay 
 Castle, or of inviting them on board of the frigate. The 
 fact was, that he had fallen most desperately in love with 
 Isabel llevel, and paid her tlie most marked attention ; 
 but, although a pleasant, light-hearted companion, and a 
 young man of good family and prospects, Isabel llevel 
 had not fallen in love with him : she liked his company, 
 but nothing more. 
 
 In a month the squadron had arrived at the island of 
 St. Helena, to which Captain Carrington had been ordered 
 to convey them : his directions were then to cruise in a 
 certain latitude, and ultimately to proceed on to the East 
 Indies, if be did not fall in with the vessels he expected.
 
 2o2 NEWTON FOUSTKR ; 
 
 It v/as, therefore, but parting to meet again; but during 
 the short time that they refitted and completed their water 
 at St. Helena, Captain Carrington proposed, and was po- 
 litely refused by Isabel Revel. Impatient as a boy who 
 has been denied his plaything, he ordered his stores imme- 
 diately on board, and the next day quitted the island. It 
 may appear strange that a young lady, obviously sent out on 
 speculation, should have refused so advantageous an offer ; 
 for the speculation commences with the voyage. Some 
 ladies are selected at Madeira. Since the Cape has been in 
 our possessit»n, several have been induced to stay in that 
 colony ; and very often ships arrive with only the refuse 
 of their cargo ; for the intended market in the East. But 
 Isabel Revel lad consented to embark on the score 
 of filial duty, not to obtain a husband unless she liked 
 the gentleman who proposed ; and Captain Carrington 
 did not happen to come up to her fanciful ideas of the 
 person to oe chosen for life. Captain f -arrington did not 
 impart the intelligence of his ul suci.<;ss t'^ any one but 
 Newton, who was employed to carry his farewell message. 
 His secret was faithfully kept by both. Isabel Revel was 
 not one of those young ladies who would make use of such 
 an unworthy advantage to heighten her consequence in the 
 eyes of others. But there was anothe. reason, not exactly 
 knov^n to Isabel herself at the time, which prevented her 
 from listening to the proposals of Captain Carrington. 
 Had she questioned her own heart, she would have disco 
 vered that she was prepossessed in favour of one, who as 
 unconsciously had become attached to her. He knew his 
 own feelings, but had checked them in the bud, aware 
 that he had nothing to offer but himself. This person was 
 Newton Forster. His intimacy with Captain Carrington, 
 the attention shown him by Captain Drawlock, (who 
 trusted him to work the chronometers ! !) his own excel- 
 lent character and handsome person, had raised him to 
 more importance than his situation as a junior officer would 
 have Warranted ; and his behaviour was such as to have 
 Htcured him the good-will of every one on board of the 
 ship. Newto.i's imassuming frank manner, added to a 
 large stock of general information, occasioned his society to
 
 OR, THE WBRCHANT SKRVlCy.. "255 
 
 be courted, even by those who would otherwise have been 
 inchned to keep at a distance one in his subordinate rank. 
 
 When they arrived at St. Helena, the tirst-nrnte, for a 
 wonder, no longer made any difficulty of going on shore 
 for an hour or two, if he knew that Newton would be the 
 commanding officer during his absence; nay, so high did he 
 stand in the opinion of his captain, that not only was he 
 permitted to take charge of the chronometers, but, if called 
 away for a time below. Captain Dravvlock would hand over 
 to Newton's charge any one of the unmarried rcspo)isibili~ 
 ties, who might happen to be leaning on his arm. 
 
 The Indiamen being now left to protect themselves, the 
 senior officer. Commodore Bottlecock, issued most elaborate 
 memoranda, as to the order of sailing, exercise of the men 
 at the great guns and small arms, and every other point 
 which could tend to their security by due preparation. 
 Nevertheless, the ladies continued to appear on deck. j\Irs. 
 Ferguson sat in her majesty ; the young ladies tittered, 
 and were reprimanded ; the young gentlemen Avere face- 
 tious, and were rebuked ; the old colonel talked of his ad- 
 venture at Madeira, and compared every thing to the spent 
 
 ball at the battle of . Dr. Plausible had become a 
 
 most assiduous attendant upon Aliss Tavistock, ever since 
 he had satisfactorily ascertained that she had property of 
 her own; every body had become intimate ; every one 
 was becoming tired, when the bearings and distance at 
 noon placed them about two hundred miles from Point de 
 Galle, the southernmost extremity of Ceylon. The wind 
 was fresh and fair, aixl they congratulated each other upon 
 1 speedy termination to their tedious voyage. 
 
 Dinner was announced by the old tune of " Oh ! the 
 roast beef of old England ; " and during a long voyage the 
 announcement of dinner is a very great relief every way. 
 As had been the invariable rule throughout the whole of 
 the voyage, Miss Charlotte and Miss Laura Revel were 
 placed on the one side of Captain Dravvlock, JNIiss Tavistock 
 and Isabel Revel on the other. They were flanked on 
 the other side by Mrs. and Mr. Ferguson, who thus 
 separated them from any undue collision with the gentle- 
 men passengers or officers of the ship. The colonel ^vas
 
 264 NEWTON FOKSTEK ; 
 
 placed next to I\Irs. Ferguson, the young writer next to her 
 husband ; then the two cadets, supported by the doctor and 
 purser, the remainder of the table being filled up with the 
 officers of the ship, with the first-mate at the foot. Such 
 was the order of Captain Drawlock's dinner-sailing ; as 
 strictly adhered to as the memoranda of Commodore Bot- 
 tlecock : the only communication permitted with the young 
 ladies under his charge (unless married inen) being to 
 '^ request the honour of drinking a glass of wine with 
 them." 
 
 All this may appear very absurd ; but a little reflection 
 will convince the reader to the contrary. There is a se- 
 rious responsibility on a captain of an Indiaman, who 
 takes charge of perhaps a dozen young women, who are to 
 be cooped up for months in the same ship with as many 
 young men. Love, powerful every where, has on the 
 waters even more potent sway, hereditary I presume, from 
 his mother's nativity. Idleness is the friend of love ; and 
 passengers have little or nothing to do to while away the 
 tedium of a voyage. In another point, he has great ad- 
 vantage, from the limited number of the fair sex. In a 
 ball or in general society, a man may see hundreds of 
 women, admire many, yet fall in love with noiie. Num- 
 bers increase the difficulty of choice, and he remains 
 delighted, but not enslaved. But on board of a ship, the 
 continued presence of one whom he admires by comparison 
 out of the few, — one who, perhaps, if on shore, would 
 in a short time be eclipsed by another, but who here shines 
 without competition, — gives her an advantage which, 
 assisted by idleness and opportunity, magnifies her attrac- 
 tions, and sharpens the arrow of all-conquering Love, 
 Captain Drawlock perhaps knew this from experience ; he 
 knew also that the friends of one party, if not of both, 
 might be displeased by any contract formed when under 
 his surveillance, and that his character and the character of 
 his ship (for ships now-a-days have characters, and very 
 much depend upon them for their well doing) might suffer 
 in consequence. Strict as he might therefore appear, he 
 was only doing his duty. 
 
 Grace being requested from Mr. Ferguson, he indulged 
 
 I
 
 on, TIIK MEUCHA.VT SKUVICK. 255 
 
 the comj)aiiy with one quite as long as usual ; rather too 
 Zong considering that the ship was very unsteady, anel the 
 ladies had to cling to the table for support. But Mr. 
 Ferguson was not a sailor, or he would have known that it 
 is the custom to reduce the grace in proportion with the 
 canvass. When the royals are set, we submit to a homily ; 
 under double-reefed topsails, a blessing ; but under sionn 
 stay-sails, an ejaculation is considered as orthodox. 
 
 " Mrs. Ferguson, will you permit me to send you a little 
 mulligatawney ? " said Captain Drawlock. " If you pre- 
 fer it, there is sheep's-head broth at the other end of the 
 table." 
 
 " Then I will take a little of the broth, if you please. 
 Captain Drawlock." 
 
 " Mr. Mathews, Mrs. Ferguson will take some broth. 
 I am sorry, Mrs. Ferguson, that our table is so ill-supplied; 
 but a long voyage and bad weather has been very fatal to 
 our hen-coops." 
 
 " Indeed, Captain Drawlock, you need not apologise." 
 Nor was there any occasion, for the table was loaded. 
 
 " Perhaps Miss Laura Revel will permit me to send 
 her a slice of this mutton ? " said the obsequious colonel. 
 
 " No, I thank you ; I have eaten nothing but mutton 
 lately. I think I shall be a sheep myself soon," added the 
 young lady, tittering. 
 
 " That would be very much against your inclination, 
 I should think, Miss Laura," observed Mrs. Ferguson, 
 tartly. 
 
 " La ! why so ? how do you know, Mrs. Ferguson } " 
 
 " Because a sheep never changes its name until after it 
 is dead. I shrewdly suspect you would like to change 
 yours before." • — (This was a hard hit.) 
 
 " .As you have yours, Mrs. Ferguson," quietly answered 
 Isabel, in support of her sister. 
 
 " Very fair on both sides," said the colonel, bowing to 
 the ladies, who sat together. " Pray Miss Laura, don't 
 talk of being a sheep, we are all ready to devour you 
 as it is." 
 
 " La ! you don't say so } " replied the young lady^ 
 much pleased.
 
 550 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 " Colonel EUice/' interrupted Captain Drawlock, with 
 a serious air, " several of the company will thank you to 
 carve that joint, when you have finished paying your com- 
 pliments. Miss Tavistock, the honour of a glass of wine. 
 We have not had the pleasure of your company on deck 
 to-day." 
 
 " No, Captain Drawlock. I did intend to come, but my 
 health is in such a delicate state, that by the advice of Dr. 
 Plausible I remained below." 
 
 " Miss Tavistock will you allow me to send vou some 
 mutton ? " 
 
 '' If you please, colonel ; a very small slice." 
 
 "■ Mr. Forster, what have you in that dish before you ? " 
 
 " A chicken. Captain Drawlock." 
 
 " Miss Isabel Revel, will you take some chicken ? " 
 
 " No, I thank you. Captain Drawlock," replied Isabel. 
 
 " Did you say yes or no ? " inquired Newton, who had 
 caught her eye. 
 
 " I '11 change my mind," said Isabel, smiling. 
 
 Now, I know it for a fact, although I shall not give up 
 my authority, that Isabel Revel never wanted any chicken 
 until she perceived that Newton was to help her. So, if 
 Love occasionally takes away the appetite, let us do him 
 justice — he sometimes creates one. 
 
 " Miss Tavistock, allow me to send you a little of this 
 Turkey," said Dr. Plausible ; it is easy of digestion." 
 
 " If you please, doctor," replied Miss Tavistock, cram- 
 ming the last mouthful of mutton into her mouth, and 
 sending away her plate to be changed. 
 
 " Will you not take a little ham with it. Miss Tavi- 
 stock ? " said Captain Drawlock. 
 
 "'If you please, sir." 
 
 " The honour of a glass of wine, Miss Tavistock," said 
 the colonel. 
 
 " ^^^ith pleasure, sir." 
 
 " Miss Charlotte Revel, you have i-eally eaten nothing," 
 said Captain Drawlock. 
 
 '•' That proves you have not paid me the least attention," 
 replied the young lady. Had you honoured me with a
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 257 
 
 Single glance during dinner, you could not but have ob- 
 served that I have been dining very neartily." 
 
 "I really am quite shocked, Miss Charlotte, and bow 
 to your reproof. Will you take a glass of wine with me 
 in reconciliation ? " 
 
 " I consider a glass of Madeira a very poor bribe, sir." 
 
 "Well, then. Miss Charlotte, it shall be champagne," 
 replied Captain Drawlock, in his gallantry. " Steward, 
 champagne." A fortunate hit for the company, as cham, 
 pagne was in general only produced upon what sailors call 
 ' cjean shirt days,* viz. Sundays and Thursdays. 
 
 " We are highly indebted to Miss Revel," observed the 
 colonel, bowing to her ; and I think we ought to drink her 
 health in a bumper." 
 
 Agreed to, nern con. 
 
 Champagne, thou darling of my heart ! To stupify one- 
 self with other wines, is brutal ; but to raise oneself to the 
 seventh heaven witli thee, is quite ethereal. The soul ap- 
 pears to spurn the body, and take a transient fliglit without 
 its dull associate — the — the — broke down, by Jupiter! 
 All I meant to say was, that champagne is very pretty 
 tipple ; and so thought the dinner party, who were proper 
 tionally enlivened. 
 
 "Is this orthodox, Mr. Ferguson ? " inquired the colonel 
 holding up his glass. 
 
 " So far orthodox, that it is very good ; and what is or- 
 thodox is good," replied the divine, with good-humour. 
 
 " Tlie Asia has made the signal for ' a strange sail — 
 suspicious,' " said the second-mate to Captain Drawlock 
 puttfng his head into the cabin. 
 
 " Very well, Mr. Jones, keep a glafiS ujifii the commo, 
 dore." 
 
 " Mrs. Ferguson, will you take some of this tart * 
 Damascene, I believe," said the first-mate. 
 
 "If you please, Mr. IMathews. — Did not Mr. Jones say 
 suspicious ? — What does that imply .'' " 
 
 " Imply, madam ; why that he don't like the cut of her 
 jib ! " 
 
 " And pray •what does that m.ean '' "
 
 ^58 NEWTON' FORSTEB ; 
 
 " Mean, madam ; why, that for all he knows to the 
 contrary, she may be a French frigate." 
 
 " A French frigate ! a French frigate! Odear ! O dear! * 
 cried two or three ladies at a breath. 
 
 " j\lr. Mathews," said Captain Drawlock, " I am really 
 surprised at your indiscretion. You have alarmed the la- 
 dies. A suspicious sail, Mrs. Ferguson, merely implies 
 
 in fact, that they do not know what she is." 
 
 " Is that all it means ? " replied Mrs. Ferguson, with an 
 -incredulous look. 
 
 " Nothing more, madam ; nothing more, I assure you." 
 
 "Commodore has made a signal that strange vessel is a 
 man-of-war bearing down," said the second-mate, again 
 entering the cabin. 
 
 '' Very well, Mr. Jones," said Captain Drawlock, with 
 assumed indifference, but at the same time fidgeting on his 
 chair. 
 
 The first-mate and Newton immediately quitted the 
 cabin. 
 
 " Miss Tavistock, will you take a little of this pudding? " 
 
 "If you please, sir, a very little." 
 
 " A man-of-war ! I 'U go and have a look at her," said 
 the colonel ; who rose up, bowed to the ladies, and left the 
 cuddy. 
 
 " Most probably one of our cruizers," observed Captain 
 Dra*vlock. 
 
 " The commodore has made the signal to prepare for 
 action, sir," said the second-mate. 
 
 " Very well, Mr. Jones," said Captain Drawlock, who 
 could now restrain himself no longer. " You must excuse 
 me, ladies, for a moment or two, but our commodore is so 
 very prudent a man, and I am under his orders. In a 
 short time I hope to return to the pleasure of your society." 
 
 Captain Drawlock's departure was followed by that of 
 all the male party, with the exception of- Doctor Plausible 
 and Mr. Ferguson, both of whom however were anxious 
 to go upon deck, and ascertain how matters stood. 
 
 '' Mr. Ferguson, where are you going ? " said his wife, 
 sharply. " Pray, sir, do us the favour to remain. Your 
 profession, ii' I mistake not, is one of peace."
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 259 
 
 ' Oh ! Doctor Plausible, I feel very unwell," cried Miss 
 Tavistock. 
 
 " I T\'ill stay with you, my dear madam," replied the 
 doctor. 
 
 A gun from the commodore's ship, which was close to 
 windward of them, burst upon their ears, ratthng the cabin 
 windows, and making every wine-glass on the table to 
 dance with the concussion. 
 
 " Oh I oh ! oh ! " screamed Miss Tavistock, throwing 
 herself back in her chair, and expanding her arms and 
 fingers. 
 
 Doctor Plausible flew to the lady's assistance. 
 
 " The extreme fineness of her organic structure — a little 
 water, if you please, Miss Charlotte Revel.' 
 
 A tumloler of water was poured out, and Doctor Plausi- 
 ble, dipping the tip of his fore-finger into it, passed it 
 lightly over the lady's brows. '' She will be better di- 
 rectly." 
 
 But the lady did not think proper to come too so soon as 
 the doctor prophesied, and Mrs. Ferguson, snatching up 
 the tumbler, dashed the contents with violence in Miss 
 Tavistock's face ; at which Miss Tavistock not only re- 
 vived, but jumped up from her chair, blowing and splut- 
 tering. 
 
 " Are you better now, Miss Tavistock ? " said Mrs. 
 Ferguson, soot4iingly, at the same time glancing her eyes 
 at the other ladies, who could not restrain their mirth. 
 
 " Oh ! Doctor Plausible, that shock has so affected my 
 nerves, I feel tliat I shall faint again, I do indeed — I 'm 
 going " 
 
 " Lean upon me. Miss Tavistock, and permit me to 
 conduct you to your cabin," replied the doctor ; " the ex- 
 treme delicacy of your constitution," continued he, whis- 
 pering as they left the cuddy, " is not equal to the boisterous 
 remedies of Mrs. Ferguson.'' 
 
 As they went out, Newton Forster came in. 
 
 " Vou must not be alarmed, ladies, when I state that I 
 
 am commissioned by Captain Drawiock to inform you that 
 
 the stranger's manoeuvres are so doubtful, that we think 
 
 .she is an enemy. He has desired me to request you will 
 
 s 2
 
 260 NEWTON FORSrEH ; 
 
 accept my convoy to the lower-declc, where you will hi 
 safe from accident, in the event of our coming to an en« 
 gagement, Mr. Ferguson, the captain intrusts the ladies 
 to your charge, and requests that you will not leave thero 
 upon any consideration. Now, Mrs. Ferguson, will you 
 permit me to escort you to a place of security ? " 
 
 At this intelligence Laura Revel stared, Charlotte burst 
 into tears, and Isabel turned pale. Mrs. Ferguson took 
 the arm of Newton without saying a word, when the other 
 was offered and accepted by Isabel. Mr. Ferguson, with 
 the two other sisters, brought up the rear. The ladies had 
 10 pass the quarter-deck, and when they saw tlie prepara- 
 tions, the guns cast loose, the shot lying on the deck, and 
 all the various apparatus for destruction, their fears increased. 
 ■ When they had been conducted to their place of safety, 
 Newton was about to return on deck, when he was seized 
 by Miss Charlotte and Laura Revel, who entreated him 
 not to leave them. 
 
 ^' Do stay Avith us, ]\Ir. Forster ; pray don't go," cried 
 they both. 
 
 " I must indeed, ladies ; you are perfectly safe here." 
 
 " For God's sake, don't you go away, Mr. Forster ! " 
 cried Laura, falling on her knees. "I shall die of fright. — 
 You shan't go ! " screamed Laura, as the two sisters clung 
 on to the skirts of his jacket, and effectually prevented his 
 escape, unless, like the patriarch, he had left his garment 
 behind. 
 
 Newton cast an appealing glance at Isabel, who imme- 
 diately interfered, — " Charlotte, for shame ! you are pre~ 
 venting Mr. Forster from going to his duty. My dear 
 Laura, do not be so foolish ; Mr. Forster can be of no 
 service to us : but he will be on deck. Let go, Laura." 
 
 Newton was released. " I am much obliged to you, 
 Miss Isabel," said Newton, with his foot on the ladder ; 
 but I have no time now to express my thanks — not to be 
 on deck " 
 
 " I know it, Mr. Forster : go up, I beseech you, do no.' 
 wait a moment ; " and Newton sprung up the ladder ; but 
 not before he had exchanged with Isabel a glance, which, 
 had he been deficient in courage, would have nerved him
 
 OR, THE MKRCHANT SlIKVICE. 2(>1 
 
 for the approaching combat. Wc must leave the ladies 
 with Mr. Ferguson (who had no pleasant office), while Vve 
 follow Newton on deck. The stranger had borne down 
 with studding-sailSj until within thr^e miles of the India- 
 men, when she rounded to. She then kept away a little, 
 to close nearer, evidently examining the force opposed to 
 her. The Indiamcn had formed the line of battle in close 
 order, the private signal between English Inen-of-war and 
 East [ndia sliips flying at their mast-heads. 
 
 " Extreniely strange, that she does not answer the 
 private signal," said the colonel to the second-mate. 
 
 '' Not at all, if she don't know how." 
 
 " You are convinced, then, that she is a French frigate ?" 
 
 " No, not positive; but I *11 bet you ten to one she is: — 
 bet off, if either of us are killed, of course ! " 
 
 " Thanky ; 1 never bet,'' answered the colonel, turning 
 away. 
 
 " What do you think of her, Mr. Mathews .^ " said 
 Captain Drawlock to the first-mate, who had his eye on 
 the ship. 
 
 " She is English built and English rigged, sir, that I '11 
 swear ; look at her lower yard-arms, the squaring of her 
 topsails. She may be French now, but the oak in her 
 timbers grew in old England." 
 
 " I agree with you," said Newton : "look at the rake 
 of her stern ; she's English all over." 
 
 " Then why don't she answer liie private signal ? " said 
 Captain Drawlock. 
 
 " She's right in the wind's eye of us, sir, and our flags 
 are blowing end on from her." ^ 
 
 '•' There goes up her bunting, sir," cried the first-mate. 
 
 ■' English, as I said. The commodore is answering, 
 sir. Up with the er.sign there abaft. All 's right, tell the 
 adies." 
 
 "I will; I '11 go and inform them," said the colonel; 
 who immediately descended to impart the joyful intelli- 
 gence. 
 
 The frigate bore down, and hove to. The commodore 
 of the India squadron went on board, when he found that 
 she was cruizing for some large Dutch store-ships and ves- 
 s 3
 
 202 NEWTON forster; 
 
 sels armed en fiute, which were supposed to have sailed 
 from Java. In a quarter of an hour, she again made sail, 
 and parted company, leaving the Indiamen to secure their 
 guns, and pursue their course. 
 
 There are two parties, whose proceedings we had over- 
 looked ; we refer to Miss Tavistock and Dr. Plausible. 
 The latter handed the lady to her cabin, eased her down 
 upon her couch, and, taking her hand gently, retained it in 
 his own, while with his other he continued to watch her 
 pulse. 
 
 '^ Do not alarm yourself, my dear Miss Tavistock ; year 
 sensibility is immense. I %vill not leave you. I cannot 
 think what could have induced you to trust yourself on 
 such a voyage of danger and excitement." 
 
 " Oh ! Dr. Plausible, where my affections are centered, 
 there is nothing, weak creature that I am, but my soul 
 would carry me through : — indeed I am all soul. — I have 
 a dear friend in India." 
 
 " He is most happy," observed the doctor, with a sigh. 
 
 " He, Dr. Plausible ! you quite shock me ! — Do you 
 imagine for a moment that I would go out to follow any 
 gentleman? No, indeed, I am not going out on speculation, 
 as some young ladies : — I have enough of my own, thank 
 God ! I keep my carriage and corresponding establishment, 
 I assure you." — (The very thing that Dr. Plausible re- 
 quired.) 
 
 " Indeed ! my dear Miss Tavistock, is it then really a 
 female friend } '' 
 
 " Yes ! the friend of my childhood. I have ventured 
 this tedious, dangerous voyage, once more to fold her in 
 my arms." 
 
 " Disinterested affection ! a heart like yours. Miss, were 
 indeed a treasure to be won. What a happy man would 
 your husband be ! " 
 
 " Husband ! Oh, Dr. Plausible don't mention it : I feel 
 convinced, — positively convinced, that my constitution is 
 not strong enough to bear matrimony." 
 
 The doctor's answer was too prolix for insertion; it was 
 a curious compound dissertation upon love and physic, 
 united. There was devoted attention, extreme gentle treat-
 
 OBj THE MERCHANT SERVICE. S^*" 
 
 ment, study of pathology, advantage of medical attendance 
 always at hand, careful nursing, extreme solicitude, fragility 
 of constitution restored, propriety of enlarging the circle of 
 her innocent afl'ections, ending at last in devoted love, and 
 a proposal — to share her carriage and establishment. 
 
 Miss Tavistock assumed another faint — the shock was 
 so great; but the doctor knelt by her, and kissed her hand, 
 with well-affected rapture. At last, she murmured out a 
 low assent, and fell back, as if exhausted with the effort. 
 The doctor removed his lips from her hand to her mouth, 
 to seal the contract ; and, as she yielded to his wishes, 
 almost regretted that he had not adhered to his previous 
 less assuming gallantry. 
 
 CHAPTER XIX. 
 
 'T is sweet to hear the watch-dog's honest bark, 
 Bay deip-moiith'd welcome as we draw near home ; 
 
 'Tis sweet to know there is an eye will mark 
 Our coming — and look brighter when we come. Byron. 
 
 Edward Foester, returned home with his little jaro^egr^e, his 
 mind relieved from the weight which had oppressed it : he 
 knew that the word of his brother was his bond, and that 
 under a rough exterior he concealed a generous and sym- 
 pathysing heart. It was in the early part of the autumn 
 that he again took possession of the cottage ; and as he 
 once more seated himself in his old arm-chair, he mentally 
 exclaimed, " Here then am I again at anchor for a short 
 time until summoned to another world." His prophecy 
 was correct ; during the severe winter that followed, his 
 wound opened again, and his constitution, worn out, gave 
 way to repeated suffering. He had not been confined to 
 his bed more than a fortnight when he felt that his end 
 was approaching. He had long been prepared : nothing 
 remained to be done but to write a letter to his brother, 
 which he confided to Robinson, the fisherman, with direc- 
 tions that it should be put into the post-office immediately 
 s 4
 
 •264 NKWTON FORSTER J 
 
 after his death; and a strict charge to watch over the little 
 girl, until she should be sent for by his brother. 
 
 This last necessary act had been completed when 
 Robinson, who was standing by the side of the bed, with 
 the letter in his hand, informed him that the family at the 
 Hall had returned from the Continent on the evening 
 before, with their only son, who was now restored to health. 
 This intelligence induced Forster to alter his plans ; and 
 trusting to the former friendship of Lord Aveleyn, he de- 
 spatched Robinson to the Hall, stating his own condition, 
 and requesting that his lordship would come to the cottage. 
 Lord Aveleyn immediately obeyed the summons, and per- 
 ceiving at the first glance that Forster's situation debarred 
 all chance of recovery, took upon himself with willingness 
 the charge of the letter, and promised to receive Amber 
 into his house until it was convenient that she should be 
 removed. It was dark when Lord Aveleyn, with melan- 
 choly foreboding, took his last farewell ; for, ere tlie sun 
 iiad risen a^rain, the spirit of Edward Forster had regained 
 its liberty, and soared to the empyrean, while the deserted 
 Amber wept and prayed. 
 
 Edward Forster had not concealed from her the pre- 
 carious tenure of his existence, and since their return from 
 London had made her fully acquainted with all the par- 
 ticulars connected with her own history. The last few 
 weeks, every interval of suffering had been devoted by him 
 to enforce those principles which he ever had inculcated, 
 and to prepare for the event which had now taken place. 
 
 Amber was kneeling by the side of the bed ; she had 
 been there so long, that she was not aware that it was 
 broad day. Her face laid upon her hands, was completely 
 hid by her luxuriant hair, which had escaped from the 
 confinement of the comb, when the door of the chamber 
 of death was softly opened. Amber, who either did not 
 hear the noise, or thought it was the daughter of Robinson, 
 who lived as servant in the cottage, raised not her head. 
 The steps continued to approach, then the sound ceased, 
 and Amber felt the arms of some one encircling her waist 
 to raise her from her krieeling posture. She lifted up her 
 head, and dividing the hair from her forehead, that she 
 
 I
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SKRVICK. 255 
 
 might see who it was, perceived that it was young Aveleyn 
 wl)o was hanging over her. 
 
 " My poor little girl ! " said he in a tone of commiseration. 
 
 " Oh ! William Aveleyn/' cried Amber, bursting into 
 a paroxysm of tears, as the was folded in his arms. 
 
 The sorrow of youth is sympathetic, and Wilham Ave- 
 leyn, although seventeen years old, and fast advancing to 
 manhood, did not disdain to mingle his tears with those of 
 his former playmate. It was some time before he could 
 persuade Amber, Avho clung to him in her grief, to any de- 
 gree of serenity. 
 
 " Amber, dear, you must come to us at the Hall; this 
 is no place for you now." 
 
 " And why not, William } Why should I leave so 
 soon ? I 'm not afraid of being here, or lying by his side 
 alone : I 've seen other people die. I saw Mrs. Beazeley 
 die — I saw poor Faithful die ; and now, they all are 
 dead," said Amber, bursting into tears, and burying her 
 face in William Aveleyn's bosom. " 1 knew that he was to 
 die," said she, raising her head after a time — '' he told me 
 so ; but, to think that I shall never hear him speak again 
 — that very soon I shall never see him more — I must 
 cry, William." 
 
 " But your father is happy. Amber." 
 
 " He is happy, I know ; but he was not my father, 
 William. I have no father — no friend on earth I know 
 of. He told me all before he died ; Faithful brought me 
 from the sea." 
 
 This intelligence roused the curiosity of William Ave- 
 leyn, who interrogated Amber, and obtained from her the 
 whole of the particulars communicated by Edward Forster ; 
 and, as she answered to his many questions, she grew more 
 composed. 
 
 The narrative had scarcely been finished, when Lord 
 Aveleyn, who had been summoned by Robinson, drove to 
 the door, accompanied by Lady Aveleyn, who thought that 
 her presence and persuasions Avould more readily induce 
 Amber to leave the cottage. Convinced by her of the pro- 
 priety of the proposal. Amber was put into the carriage 
 without resistance, and conveyed to the Hall, where every
 
 £66 
 
 NEWTON FORSTER 
 
 thiiii^ that kindness and sympathy could suggest was re- 
 sorted to, to assuage her grief. There we must leave her, 
 and repair to the metropolis. 
 
 " Scratton," said Mr. John Forster to his clerk, who 
 had answered the bell, " recollect 1 cannot see any one 
 to-day." 
 
 '^ Yon have several appointments, sir," replied the clerk. 
 
 " Then send, and put them all off." 
 
 " Yes, sir ; and if any one calls, I am to say that you are 
 not at home.? " 
 
 " No, I am at home ; why teU a lie .■' but I cannot see 
 any body." 
 
 The clerk shut the door ; John Forster put on his spec- 
 tacles to reperuse the letter which lay before him. It was 
 the one from Edward, inclosed in a frank by Lord Ave- 
 leyn, with a few lines, announcing his brother's death, and 
 stating that Amber was at the Hall, where they should be 
 glad that she should remain until it was convenient to send 
 for her. Edward's letter repeated his thanks to his bro- 
 ther for his kind promise, and took a last and affectionate 
 farewell. John Forster struggled for a time with his feel- 
 'mgs; but the more he attempted to repress them, the more 
 violent they became. He was alone, and he gave them 
 vent. The legal documents before him, arising from the 
 bitterness of strife, were thus unusually moistened with a 
 tribute to a brother's memory. But in a few moments the 
 old lawyer was himself again ; all traces of emotion had 
 disappeared, and no one who had seen him then would 
 ever have imagined that John Forster could have been 
 thus moved. The next day he was not as usual to be 
 found at his chambers : the fact was, that he had set off 
 immediately after breakfast, upon what is generally termed 
 '^ house hunting."" The apartments which he occupied in 
 his chambers were not sufficient for the intended increase 
 of his establishment ; and when he had given his promise 
 to Edward, he was fully aware of the expense which would 
 be entailed by receiving Amber, and had made up his 
 mind to incur it. He therefore fixed upon a convenient 
 house in Lincoln's-Inn-Fields, which would not detach
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE 26'7 
 
 him far from his chambers. Having arranged for a lease 
 of twelve years, John Forster returned to his chambers. 
 
 " Scratton," said he, "look out for a man-servant, a 
 cook, housemaid, and a steady woman, as housekeeper — 
 good characters, and undeniable reference. The house 
 keeper must De a somewhat superior person, as she will 
 have to take charge of a young miss, and I do not want 
 her spoiled by keeping company with the general descrip- 
 tion of servants. Do you understand ? '' 
 
 Scratton did ; and in less than a month, as every thing 
 is to be obtained for money in the city of London, the 
 house was furnished by a city upholsterer in a plain way, 
 and all the servants installed in their respective situations. 
 
 Mr. John Forster took possession of his new house, and 
 tried for a week if all worked well. Ascertaining that the 
 furniture was complete, the under-servants well behaved, 
 and the housekeeper a mild and very intelligent personage, 
 fit to be intrusted with the charge of a little girl, he then 
 wrote tt' Jiord Aveleyn, reiterating the thanks conveyed in 
 his former letter, and requesting that Amber might be de- 
 livered into the charge of the bearer. With this letter Mr. 
 Scratton was despatched, and, in due time, arrived at the 
 Hall. Amber wept bitterly at the idea of parting with 
 those who had been so kind to hei, and passing into the 
 hands of one who was a stranger. Having exacted a pro- 
 mise from William Aveleyn that he would call as he passed 
 through on his way to Cambridge, she bade her kind 
 friends farewell, entered the chaise in company with Mr. 
 Scratton, and was hurried off to London. 
 
 Mr. Scratton was one of those personages who never 
 spoke except on business; and, having no business to 
 transact with a girl of twelve years old, he never spoke at 
 all except when necessity rendered it imperative. Amber was 
 therefore left to her own reflections, AV'hat they all were 
 I cannot tell ; but one certainly was, that travelling in a 
 chaise for two days with Mr. Scratton was not very agree- 
 able. Most happy was she when they drove up to the 
 door of Mr. John Forster's new habitation. The old gen- 
 tleman, who had calculated the hour of her arrival after the 
 receipt of a letter from her companion, was there to receive
 
 268 NEWTON FOIISTEU, (S-'C. 
 
 lier. Amber, who had been prepossessed in bis favour 
 by Edward Forster, who had told her that in his brother 
 she would find a protector and indulgent parent, ran up to 
 him when she entered the room, and burst into tears as the 
 injunctions of Edward Forster returned to her memory. 
 John Forster took her in his arms, and kissed her. "My 
 little girl," said he, " what my brother was, such will I be 
 to you. Consider me as your father ; for his memory, 
 and I hope soon, for your own sake, 1 shall rejoice to 
 be so" 
 
 After an hour, by which time Amber had recovered her 
 serenity, and become almost cheerful, she was consigned to 
 the charge of Mrs. Smith the housekeeper, and John For- 
 ster hastened back to his chambers and his clients, to make 
 up for so much lost time. 
 
 It was not long before the old gentleman discovered that 
 the trouble and expense which he had incurred to please his 
 brother was the occasion of pleasure and gratification. He 
 no longer felt isolated in the world : in short, he had a 
 home, where a beaming eye met his return, and an affec- 
 tionate heart ministered to his wishes ; where his well- 
 known rap at the door was a source of delight, and his de- 
 parture one of regret. 
 
 In a iew months Amber had entwined herself round the 
 old man's heart ; the best masters were procured for her, 
 and all the affection of a doting parent upon an only child 
 was bestowed by him who, when the proposition was made, 
 had declared that " it was bad enough to maintain cliildren 
 of one's own begetting." 
 
 Bless my soul! how poor authors are obliged to gallop 
 about. Now I must be off again to India, and get on board 
 of the Bombay Castle. 
 
 ENI> OF THE SECOND VOtUMK.
 
 VOLUME THE THJfBD. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 A green anil giWed snake had wroatbod itself. 
 
 Who, with her head, nimble in threats, approach'd 
 
 The opening of liis mouth. Shakspearc, 
 
 The Bombay Castle arrived at Madras without further 
 adventure. A few hours after she had anchored, all the 
 passengers^ receivinp; kind messages from, or escorted on 
 shore by their relatives or consignees, had landed ; all, 
 ■with the exception of the three Miss Revels, whose 
 anxiety to land was increased by the departure of the 
 others, and the unpleasant situation in which they were 
 placed, by remaining a clog upon Captain Drawlock, who 
 would not quit his ship until he had surrendered up his 
 charge. By inquiry of the dubashes. Captain DraAvlock 
 found out that an old Colonel Revel was residing at his 
 Bungalo, about two miles distant from the fort, and sup- 
 posing him not to be aware of the arrival of his grand- 
 nieces, he despatched Newton Forster to acquaint him with 
 the circumstance. It was late in the afternoon when 
 Newton arrived at the residence of the colonel, when he 
 jterceived immediately that every thing was on the estab- 
 lishment of an old Indian nabob. 4 double set of palan- 
 q uin-bearers were stretched under tne verandas ; syces 
 were fanning the horses with their chowries; tailors and 
 various craft?men were at work in the shade, while a herd 
 of consumers, butlers, and other Indian domestics, were 
 loitering about, or very busy doing nothing. 
 
 It will be neccssarv, before Newton is introduced to the .
 
 270 NEWTON FOUSTEH ; 
 
 colonel, that the colonel should be introduced to the reader. 
 He was a man of nearly sixty years of age, forty-five of 
 which, with the exception of occasional furlough, had 
 been passed in the country. Having held several lucrative 
 situations for many years, and, although not parsimonious 
 being very prudent in money concerns, he had amassed a 
 very large fortune. More than once he had returned to 
 England on leave, and with the full intention of remaining 
 there, if he could be comfortable; but a few months in, 
 his native country only made him more anxious to return 
 to India. His habits, his tastes were all eastern; thej 
 close hospitality, the cold winter of England, the loss ofi 
 consequence, naturally resulting when a man mixes in thel 
 crowd of London, all disgusted him, and he invariably re- 
 turned to India long before his furlough had expired. He 
 was a bachelor from choice. When young he had been 
 very cruelly treated by the object of his admiration, who 
 deserted him for a few lacks of rupees, which offered 
 themselves with an old man as tlieir appendage. This had 
 raised his bile against the sex in general, whom he con- 
 sidered as mercenary and treacherous. His parties were 
 numerous and expensive : but women were never to be 
 seen in his house ; and his confirmed dislike to them was 
 the occasion of his seldom visiting, except with those who 
 were like himself, in a state of happy singleness. In 
 other points, he was a liberal, worthy man, and a perfect 
 gentleman, but extremely choleric in his disposition. 
 
 Newton addressed himself to one of the butlers, requests 
 ing to be announced. The man led the way to a spacious 
 hall, coated and floored with chunam, when Newton per- 
 ceived the colonel, who presented rather a singular spec- 
 tacle. " Burra Saib ; Saib," said the Indian ; and imme- 
 diately retired. 
 
 The colonel was a tall gaunt mjin, with high cheek-bones, 
 bushy eyebrows, and white hair. He was seated on a 
 solitary chair in the centre of the hall ; his dress consisting 
 of a pair of white nankeen trousers and a white shirt, the 
 sleeves of the latter tucked up to his shoulders, and ex- 
 posing sinewey arms, covered with hair. By his side la.y 
 a basket of mangoes, and before his chair a large tub of
 
 OB, THE MEHClANT SEllVIOE. 271 
 
 water. As Newton entered, he had an opportunity of 
 witnessing the most approved method of eating this 
 exquisite fruit. The colonel had then one as large as a 
 cassowary's egg, held in both hands, and applied to his 
 mouth, while he held his head over the tub of Avater, to 
 catch the superabundant juice which flowed over his face, 
 hands, and arms, and covered them with a yellow stain, 
 The contents of the mango were soon exhausted ; tlie stone 
 and pulp were dropped into the tub of water, and the 
 colonel's hand was extended to the basket for a repetition 
 of his luxurious feast, when Newton was announced. 
 Newton was sorry to interrupt him, and would have made 
 an apology, had he not observed that the colonel, whose 
 back was towards him, continued his pleasing avocation : 
 the fact was, that the colonel was so intent upon his oc- 
 cupation, that he had neither heard the anouncement, nor 
 could he perceive Newton, who thus had an opportunity 
 of witnessing the demolition of at least two dozen more 
 mangoes without the colonel having turned his eyes in 
 that direction, or being aware that he was not alone. But 
 something at length attracted the attention of Newton, and 
 induced him to come forward, and put an end to the 
 colonel's repast. The colonel had just taJcen another 
 mango out of the basket, when Newton perceived a small 
 snake wind itself over the rim, and curl up one of the feet 
 of the colonel's chair, in such a position that the very next 
 time that the colonel reached out his hand, he must have 
 come in contact with the reptile. Newton hardly knew 
 how to act; the slightest movement of the old gentleman 
 might be fatal to him ; he therefore walked up softly, and 
 was about to strike the animal on the head with his stick, 
 when the colonel, as he leant over the tub, half rose from 
 the chair. In an instant, Newton snatched it from under 
 him, and jerked it, with the snake, to the corner of the hall. 
 The colonel, whose centre of gravity had not been suffi- 
 ciently forward to enable him to keep his feet, fell back- 
 ward, when Newton and he both rolled on the floor 
 together ; and also both recovered their legs at the same 
 tine. 
 
 "You'll excuse me, sir," said Nev/tou,
 
 872 NEWTON FOUSTKU ; 
 
 " I '11 be d — (1 if I do, sir ! " interrupted the colonel, in a 
 rage ; " who the devil are you ? — and how dare you pre- 
 sume to play off such impertinent jokes upon a stranger ? — 
 Where did you come from, sir ? — How did you get in, sir ?" 
 
 " Is that a joke, sir ?" replied Newton, calmly pointing 
 to the snake, which was still hissing in its wrath at the 
 corner of the room where the chair lay. Newton then 
 briefly explained the circumstances. 
 
 " Sir, I beg your pardon a thousand times, and am very 
 much your debtor. It is the most venomous snake that we 
 have in the country. I trust you will accept my apology 
 for a moment's irritation ; and, at the same time, my 
 sincere thanks.'' The colonel then summoned the servants, 
 who provided themselves with bamboos, and soon de- 
 spatched the object which had occasioned the misunder- 
 standing. The colonel then apologised to Newton, while 
 he repaired to the bath, and in a few minutes returned, 
 having undergone the necessary ablution after a mango 
 feast. His dress was changed, and he offered the appear- 
 ance of an ujiright gentlemanlike, hard-featured man, who 
 had apparently gH)ne through a great deal of service 
 without his stamina having been much impaired. 
 
 " I beg your pardon, my dear sir, for detaining you. 
 May I request the pleasure of your name, and the occasion 
 of your providential visit." 
 
 " I have a letter for you, sir," replied Newton, who had 
 been intrusted with the one which I\Ir. Ilevel had given 
 to his daughters on their embarkation. 
 
 " Oh ! a letter of introduction. It is now quite super- 
 fluous ; you have already introduced yourself." 
 
 " No sir, it is not a letter of recommendation in my 
 behalf; but to announce the arrival of your three grand- 
 nieces — daughters of the Honourable Mr. Revel — 
 in the Bombay Castle, the ship to which I belong." 
 
 " What } " roared the colonel, " my three grand-nieces ' 
 daughters of Mr. Revel !" 
 
 " So I have understood from them, sir.'' 
 
 The colonel tore open the letter, in wdiich Mr. Revel 
 very coolly informed him that not having received any 
 answer to his former epistles on the subject, he presumed
 
 Vn, THK BIKRCIIANT SEKVICE. 273 
 
 tliat they had miscarried, and had therefore heen induced 
 in consequence of the difficuUies which he laboured under 
 to send his daughters out to his kind protection. The 
 colonel, as soon as he had finislied the perusal of the letter, 
 tore it into pieces again and again, every renewed action 
 showing an increase of excitement. He then threw thf: 
 fragments on the floor, stamping upon them in an ecstasy 
 of rage. 
 
 " The d -d scoundrel ! — the viham ! — the rascal ! 
 
 — Do you know, sir, that when I was last in England, this 
 fellow swindled me out of a thousand pounds ? Yes, sir, 
 a thousand pounds, by G — d ! promised to pay me in 
 three weeks ; and when I was coming hack, and asked 
 for my money, he laughed at me, and ordered his servant 
 not to let me in. And now he has sent out his three 
 daughters to me — pawned them off upon me, laughing I 
 suppose in his sleeve, as he did when he cheated me before. 
 I'll not receive them, by G — d ! they may find their way 
 back again how they can ;"' and the colonel paced the room 
 up and down, throwing his arms about in his fury. 
 
 Newton waited some time before he ventured to make any 
 observation; indeed he was so astonished at such unheard- 
 of proceeding, and so shocked at the unfortunate situation 
 of Isabel, that he hardly knew what to say. 
 
 "Am I then to inform the young ladies that you will 
 not receive them ? " 
 
 " You don't know me, sir. — When did I ever receive a 
 woman into my house ? They are all alike, sir. — Plotted 
 with their father, I'll answer foi-, with the hopes of getting 
 husbands. Tell them, sir, that I'll see them d — d first I 
 
 — Swindling scoundrel ! — first cheats me out of a thou- 
 sand pounds, and then tries to cheat me into providing for 
 his family ! " 
 
 Newton paused a little, to allow the colonel's wrath to 
 subside, and then observed — "I never was so much dis- 
 tressed as to be the bearer of your message.- The young 
 ladies are certainly no parties to their father's dishonesty, 
 and are in a situation much to be pitied. In a foreign 
 country, thousands of miles from their friends, without 
 
 T
 
 i7^' NEWTON FORSTEB ; 
 
 means of subsistence, or of paying their passage home. 
 ^VTiat is to become of them ? " 
 
 " I don't care." 
 
 " That your indignation is just. Colonel Revel, I admit ; 
 but allowing that you will not receive them, how are they 
 to return home ? Captain Drawlock, I am sure, would give 
 hem a passage ; but we proceed to China. Poor girls ! " 
 continued Newton, with a sigh. " I should like to make a 
 remark, Colonel Revel, if it were not considered too great 
 a liberty in a stranger." 
 
 " You have already taken a liberty, which in all proba- 
 bility has saved my life. I shall be happy to listen to any 
 remark that you may wish to offer." 
 
 ''It was, sir, that reprehensible as their father's conduct 
 may be, common humanity, and a regard for your own 
 character, will hardly warrant their being left thus desti- 
 tute. They at least are your relations, and have neither 
 offended nor deceived you ; on the contrary, are, with you, 
 joint victim.s of their father's deception." 
 
 " You appear to take a great interest in these young 
 ladies,"' observed the colonel, sharply. 
 
 " If I had never seen them, sir, their present unfortu 
 nate dilemma would be sufficient. Knowing them inti- 
 mately as I do, I must say, that this intelligence will be to 
 one, at least, a death-blow. I would to God that I were 
 able to assist and to protect her ! " 
 
 "Very handsome then I presume ?" replied the colonel, 
 with a sneer. 
 
 " She certainly is, sir ; but it was not admiration of her 
 beauty which occasioned the remark. If you knew her, 
 sir, you would be as sorry to part with her, as you .now 
 appear to be to receive her." 
 
 The colonel continued to pace the room, but with less 
 violence than before. Newton observed this, and therefore 
 was silent, hoping that reflection would-induce him to alter 
 his resolution. In a few minutes, apparently forgetting 
 the presence of Newton, the colonel commenced talking to 
 himself aloud, muttering out the following detached phrases: 
 — ''Must take them in by G — d! Couldn't show 
 my face — no where — d — d scoundrel ! Keep them here
 
 ORj THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 275 
 
 till next ship — till they are as yellow as gamboge, then 
 send them home — revenge in that.'' 
 
 Thus did the old gentleman mutter loud enough for 
 Newton to overhear. A few minutes more were spent in 
 perambulation, when he threw himself into the chair. 
 
 " I think, my young acquaintance, you appear to be 
 Interested for these relations of mine ; or at least for one 
 of them." 
 
 " I certainly am, sir ; and so is every one who is ac- 
 quainted with her." 
 
 " Well, I am glad to hear that there is one good out of 
 the three. I have been put in a j)assion — no wonder ; and 
 I have said more than should be repeated. Were it known 
 that these girls had been sent out to me in this way, the 
 laugh would be faised against me, as it is known that I am 
 not very partial to women ; and it would also be of serious 
 injury to them and their prospects. I have determined 
 upon receiving them, for the best of all possible reasons — 
 I can't help myself. You will therefore add to the obliga- 
 tions of this day, by saying nothing about what has been 
 made known to you." 
 
 " Most certainly, sir ; I will pledge you my honour, if 
 it is requested." 
 
 " When I say not mention it, I mean to other parties ; 
 but to the girls, I must request you to state the facts. I 
 will not have them come here, pawing and fondling, and 
 wheedling me as an old bachelor, with a few lacks of 
 rupees to be coaxed out of. It would make me sick ; I 
 detest women and their ways. Now if they are informed 
 of the real state of the case, that they are here only on 
 sufisrance ; that I neither wished nor want them ; and 
 thOT^I have been imposed upon by their scoundrel of a 
 father, I may keep them at the other end of the bungalo, 
 and not be annoyed with their company ; until, upon plea 
 of bad health, or some other excuse, I can pay their 
 passage back again." 
 
 " Could you not state these facts yourself, sir ? " 
 
 " No, I never meddle with women ; besides, it is better 
 that they should know it before they come here. If you 
 will promise me what I now request, why I will consent 
 T 2
 
 276 NEWTON FORSTKR ; 
 
 to give them house-rcom ; if not, they may stay where 
 they are. It will be but a few days laugh at ms, or abuse 
 of me, I care little which," 
 
 " Well, sir, unpleasant as this intelligence must be, 
 their present suspense is still more so. You will allow me 
 to disclose it in as delicate a manner as possible." 
 
 " You may be as refined as you please, provided that 
 you tell the exact truth, which I am convinced that you 
 will, by your countenance." 
 
 " Then I will take my leave, sir," replied Newton. 
 
 " Fare you well, my dear sir; recollect that my house 
 is your home ; and although not fond of the society of 
 women, I shall be delighted with yours. The young 
 ladies may be brought on shore to the hotel, and I will 
 send a carriage for them. Good-bye. — What is your 
 name ? " 
 
 " Forster, sir." 
 
 " Gi.;od-bye then, Mr Forster, for the present;" and 
 tlie colonel quitted the room. 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 Then there were sighs, the deeper for suppression. 
 
 And s-to'-vn glances, sweeter for the thatt. 
 And burring blushes, though for no transgression, 
 
 Tremb'ungs when met, ami restlessness when left. 
 All ihcst are little preludes to possession, 
 
 Of which young passion cannot be bereft. 
 And merely tend to show how greatly love is 
 Embarrassed, at first starting, with a novice. BVRON. 
 
 It was in no very happy frame of m.ind that N^Won 
 quitted the colonel's house to execute his mission to the 
 Miss Revels. That the two eldest, provided they were 
 admitted, would not much take to heart, either the conduct 
 of their father, or the coolness of their relation, he was 
 pretty well assured ; but he was too well acquainted with 
 Isabel's character, not to know that she would deeply feel 
 the humiliating situation in which she was placed, and 
 that it would prey upon her generous and sensitive mind
 
 ORy THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 277 
 
 As, however, there was no remedy, he almost congratulated 
 himself that, as the colonel's message was to he delivered, 
 the commission had been placed in his trust. 
 
 Captain Drawlock, tired of waiting, had escorted the 
 young ladies on shore to the hotel, anxiously expecting the 
 arrival of Newton, who was conducted there by a messen- 
 ger despatched to intercept him. 
 
 "Well, Mr. Forster. is it all right?" said Captain 
 Drawlock, on his appearance. 
 
 " The colonel's carriage will be here for the ladies in 
 less than half an hour," replied Newton, evasively. 
 
 " Then, Miss Revels, as I am extremely busy, I shall 
 wish you good morning, and will have the pleasure of pay- 
 ing my respects before I sail. Allow me to offer you my 
 best thanks for your company during our voyage, and to 
 assure you how much your presence has contributed to en- 
 liven it. Forster, you will of course remain Avilh the Miss 
 Revels, and see them safe in the carriage ; " and Captain 
 Drawlock, who appeared to consider his responsibility over 
 Avith the voyage, shook hands with them and quitted the 
 hotel. 
 
 " Mr. Forster," said Isabel, as soon as Captain Draw- 
 lock was out of hearing, " I am sure by your countenance 
 that, there has been something unpleasant. Is it not so } " 
 
 " I am sorry to answer in the affirmative, and more 
 sorry to be forced to impart the cause." Newton then 
 entered into a detail of what had passed at the colonel's 
 house. Isabel listened to it with attention, her sisters with 
 impatience. Miss Charlotte, with an air of consternation, 
 inouired whether the colonel had refused to receive them : 
 o^Bkeing informed to the contrary, she appeared to be 
 satisfied. Laura simpered, and observed, " How very odd 
 of papa!" and then seemed to think no more about it. 
 Isabel made no observation ; she remained on her chair, 
 apparently in deep and painful thought. 
 
 A few minutes after the communication the colonel's 
 carriage made its appearance, and Newton proposed that 
 they should quit the hotel. Charlotte and Laura were all 
 ready and impatient, but Isabel remained seated by the 
 table. 
 
 T 3
 
 2'/ 8 NEWTON FORurEB ; 
 
 " Come, Isabel," cried Charlotte. 
 
 " I cannot go, my dear Charlotte," replied Isabel ; " but 
 do not let me prevent you or Laura from deciding for 
 yourselves." 
 
 " Not go I " cried the two sisters at once. Isabel was 
 firm ; and Newton, who did not think himself authorised 
 to interfere, was a silent witness to the continued persua- 
 sions and expostulations of the two elder, and the refusal 
 of the younger sister. Nearly half an hour thus passed 
 away when Charlotte and Laura decided that they would 
 go, and send back the carriage for Isabel, who by that time 
 would have come to her senses. The heartless, unthinking 
 girls tripped gaily down to the carriage, and drove off. 
 Newton, who had escorted them, retraced his steps, with a 
 beating heart, to the room where he had left Isabel. 
 
 She was in tears. 
 
 " Do I intrude, Miss Revel ? " said Newton, who could 
 not repress his emotion at the sight. 
 
 "• Oh, no ! I expected and wislied that you Avould re- 
 turn, Mr. Forster. Do you think that you could find 
 Captain Drawlock } I should feel much obliged if you 
 would take that trouble for me." 
 
 " I will immediately go in search of him, if you wish 
 it. Believe me, Miss Revel, I feel most sincerely for your 
 situation ; and, if it were not considered an impertinent 
 question, I should ask you what may be your present 
 intentions ? " 
 
 " Acquainted as you are with all the circumstances, Mr. 
 Forster, the question is not impertinent, but kind. God 
 knows that I require an adviser. I would, if possible, 
 conceal the facts from Captain Drawlock. It is not |^ a 
 daughter to publish a father's errors; but you know all, 
 and I can therefore have no scruple in consulting with you : 
 I do not see why I should. My resolution is, at best a 
 hasty one ; but it is, never to enter the house of my rela- 
 tion, under such humiliating circumstances — that is de- 
 cided : but how to act, or what to do, is where I require 
 advice. I am in a cruel situation. What a helpless 
 creature is a woman ! Were I a man, I could have worked 
 my passage home, or have honestly obtained mv bread in
 
 OR, THE jy.l'IUCHANT SEttVICE. 279 
 
 this place ; but a woman — a young and unprotected 
 woman — in a distant clime, and without a friend " 
 
 " Do not say that you are without a friend ; one who 
 has at least the will, if not the power to serve you," replied 
 Newton. 
 
 " No — not without a friend ; but what avails a friend 
 whose assistance 1 could not accept? It is to Captain 
 Drawlock, therefore, that I must apply, and, painful as it 
 may be, throw myself upon his generosity; for that reason 
 I wished to see him. lie may advise some means by 
 which I may obtain a passage home. 1 will return in any 
 capacity, as a nurse to children, as an attendant — any 
 thing that is creditable. I would watch over the couch of 
 fever, pestilence, and plague, for months, rather than ap- 
 pear to be a party to my father's duplicity. Oh ! Mr. 
 Forster, what must you think of the daughters, after what 
 you have heard of the parent's conduct ? " — and Isabel 
 burst into tears. 
 
 " NewT;on could contain himself no longer. " My dear 
 Miss Revel, let me persuade you to compose yourself," 
 said he, taking her hand, which was not withdrawn ; '■' if 
 you feel on this occasion, so do I most deej)ly ; — most 
 deeply, because I can only lament, and dare not offer to 
 assist you. The means of returning to your own country, 
 I can easily procure from Captain Drawlock ; but would 
 you accept it from me ? I know — I cannot expect that 
 you would ; and that, under such circumstances, it would 
 be insulting in me to offer it. Think, then, what pain I 
 must feel to witness your distress, and yet dare not offer to 
 assist one for whom — oh ! my God — " ended Newton, 
 chei^ng bis feelings. 
 
 '*! feel the kindness and the delicacy of your conduct, 
 Mr. Forster ; and I will candidly acknowledge, that, could 
 I accept it, there is no one to whom 1 would more cheerfully 
 be under an obligation ; but the world will not permit it.'' 
 
 " What shall 1 do. Miss Revel } — shall I go for Cap- 
 tain Drawlock ? " 
 
 " Stay a little while, I wish to reflect. What woald you 
 advise } as a friend, tell me candidly, Mr. Forster." 
 T 4 ■
 
 2S0 NEWT(»N FOUSTKR , 
 
 " 1 am indeed proud that you allov/ me that title, it is 
 all that I ever dare hope for; — hut Isahel (I beg your 
 pardon. Miss Revel, I should have said)- " 
 
 " Nay, nay, I am not displeased. Why not Isabel ? We 
 have known one another long enough, and deserted as I feel 
 
 a kind word now. Isabel covered her face with her hand. 
 
 Newton, who was standing by her, was overcome by the in- 
 tensity of his feelings ; gradually they approached nearer, 
 until by, I suppose, the same principle which holds the uni- 
 verse together, tlie attraction of cohesion, Newton's arm 
 encircled the waist of Isabel, and she sobbed upon his shoul- 
 der. Itwas with difficulty that Newton refrained from pouring 
 out his soul, and expressing the ardent love which he had 
 so long felt for her ; but it was taking advantage of her 
 situation. He had nothing to offer but himself and beg- 
 gary. He did refrain. The words were not spoken ; yet 
 Isabel divined his thoughts, appreciated his forbearance 
 and loved him more for his resolution. 
 
 " Isahel," said Newton, at length, with a sigh, " I 
 never valued or wished for wealth till now. Till this hour 
 I never felt the misery of being poor.'' 
 
 " I believe you, Mr. Forster ; and I am grateful, as 1 
 know that it is for my sake that you feel it ; but," continued 
 she, recovering herself, "crying will do no good. I 
 asked you for your advice, and you have only given ine 
 your arm." 
 
 " I am afraid it is all I shall ever have to offer," replied 
 Newton. " But, Isabel, allow me to ask you one question : 
 — are you resolved never to enter your relation's house? " 
 
 '' Not on the humiliating terms which he has proposed. 
 Let the colonel come here for me and take me home with 
 him, and then I will remain there until I can return to 
 England ; if not, I will submit to any privation, to any 
 honest humiliation, rather than enter under his roof. But 
 indeed, Mr. Forster, it is necessary that Captain Drawlock 
 should be summoned. We are here alone: it is not cor- 
 rect : you must feel that it is not." 
 
 " I do feel that it is not; but, Isabel, I was this morn- 
 ing of some trifling service to the colonel, and may have 
 some little weight with liim. Will you allow me to return
 
 OR, THE MKRCHANT SERVICP:. 281 
 
 to him and try what I can do? It will not be dark for 
 these two hours, and I will soon be back." 
 
 Isabel assented. Newton hastened to the colonel, wlio 
 had already been much surprised when he had been in- 
 fonned by his domestics (for he had not seen them) that 
 only two ladies bad arrived. The old gentleman was now 
 cool. The explanation and strong persuasions of Newton, 
 coupled with the spirited behaviour of Isabel, Avliose de- 
 termination was made known to him, and which was so 
 different from the general estimate he had formed of the 
 sex, at last prevailed. The colonel ordered his carriage, 
 and, in company with Newton, drove to the hotel, made a 
 sort of apology — a wonderful effort on his part, and re- 
 quested his grand-niece to accept of his hospitality. In a 
 few minutes Isabel and the colonel were out of sight, and 
 Newton was left to his own reflections. 
 
 A few days afterwards Newton accepted the colonel's 
 invitation to dine, when he found that affairs were going 
 on better than he expected. The old gentleman had been 
 severely quizzed by those who were intimate with him, at 
 the addition to his establishment, and had winced not a little 
 under the lash ; but, on the whole, he appeared more 
 reconciled than would have been expected. Newton, how- 
 ever, observed tliat, when speaking of the three sisters, he 
 invariably designated them as " my grand-niece, and the 
 two other young women." 
 
 CHA.PTER III. 
 
 Rich In the gems of India's gaudy zone, 
 
 And plunder piled from kingdoms not tlioir own. 
 
 Degenerate trade ! thy minions eould des\)ise 
 
 'I'hy heart-born anguish of a thousand rries : 
 
 Could lock, with impious hands, their teeming store. 
 
 While famish'U nations died along the shore ; 
 
 Coidd mock the groans of fellow men, and bear 
 
 The curse of kingdoms, peopled with despair; 
 
 Could stamp disgrace on man's polluted name, 
 
 And barter with their gold eternal sharne. CAMPniiu.. 
 
 Gold ! — gold ! for thee, what will man not attempt ? — 
 for thee, to what degradation will he not submit ? — foi
 
 282 NEWTON FORSTEK , 
 
 thee, what will he not risk in this world, or prospectively 
 in the next ; — Industry is rewarded by thee ; enterprise 
 is supported by thee ; crime is cherished, and heaven it- 
 self is bartered for thee, thou powerful auxiliary of the 
 devil ! One tempter was sufficient for the fall of man ; 
 but thou wert added, that he ne'er might rise again. 
 
 Survey the empire of India ; calculate the millions of 
 acres, the billions with whicli it is peopled, and then pause 
 while you ask yourself the question — how is it that a 
 company of merchants claim it as their own ? By what 
 means did it come into their possession ? 
 
 Honestly, they will reply. Honestly ! you went there 
 as suppliants ; you were received with kindness and hos- 
 pitality, and your request was granted, by which you ob- 
 tained a footing on the soil. Now you are lords of 
 countless acres, masters of millions, who live or perish as 
 you will ; receivers of enormous tribute. — Why, how is 
 this ? 
 
 Honestly, again you say ; by treaty, by surrender, by 
 taking from those who would have destroyed us, the means 
 of doing injury. Honestly ! say it again, that heaven may 
 register, and hell may chuckle at your barefaced, impudent 
 assertion. 
 
 No ! by every breach of faith which could disgrace an 
 infidel ; by every act of cruelty which could disgrace our 
 nature ; by extortion, by rapine, by injustice, by mockery 
 of all laws or human or diyine. The thirst for gold, and 
 a golden country, led you on ; and in these scorching 
 regions you have raised the devil on his throne, and wor- 
 shipped him in his proud pre-eminence as Mammon. 
 
 Let us think. Is not the thirst for gold a temptation to 
 which our natures are doomed to be subjected — part of 
 the ordeal which we have to pass ? or why is it that there 
 never is sufficient ? 
 
 It appears to be ordained by Providence that this metal, 
 obtained from the earth to feed the avarice of man, should 
 again return to it. If all the precious ore which for a 
 series of ages has been raised from the dark mine were 
 nov/ in tangible existence, how trifling would be its value ! 
 how inadequate as a medium of exchange for the other
 
 OR, THE BIERtSHANT SKRVICE. 98.^ 
 
 productions of nature, or of art ! If all the diamonds and 
 other precious stones which have been collected from the 
 decomposed rocks (for hard as they once were, like all sub- 
 lunary matter, they too yield to Time), why, if all were 
 remaining on the earth, the frolic gambols of the May-day 
 sweep would shake about those gems, which now are to be 
 found in profusion only where rank and beauty pay homage 
 to the thrones of kings. Arts and manufactures consume 
 a large proportion of the treasures of the mine, and as the 
 objects fall into decay, so does the metal return to the 
 earth again. But it is in eastern climes, where it is col- 
 lected, that it soonest disappears. Where the despot reigns, 
 and the knowledge of an individual's wealth is sufficient 
 warranty to seal his doom, it is to the care of the silent 
 earth alone tliat the possessor will commit his treasures ; 
 he trusts not to relation or to friend, for gold is too power- 
 ful for human ties. It is but on his death-bed that he 
 imparts the secret of his deposit to those he leaves behind 
 him ; often called away before he has time to make it 
 known, reserving the fond secret till too late ; still clinging 
 to life, and all that makes life dear to him. Often does 
 the communication, made from the couch of death, in half- 
 articulated words, prove so imperfect, that the knowledge 
 of its existence is of no avail unto his intended heirs ; and 
 thus it is, that millions return again to the earth from 
 which they have been gathered with such toil. What 
 avarice has dug up, avarice buries again; perhaps in future 
 ages to be regained by labour, when, from the chemical 
 powers of eternal and mysterious Nature, they have again 
 been filtered through the indurated earth, and reassumed 
 the form and the appearance of the metal which has lain 
 in darkness since the creation of the world. 
 
 Is not this part of the grand principle of the universe f 
 the eternal cycle of reproduction and decay, pervading all 
 and every thing, blindly contributed to by the folly and 
 the wickedness of man } " So far shalt thou go, but no 
 further," was the fiat ; and, arrived at the prescribed limit, 
 we must commence again. At this moment intellect has 
 seized upor. the seven-league boots of the fable, which 
 fitted every body who drew them on, and strides over the
 
 284 NEWTON PORSTER ; 
 
 universe. How soon, as on the decay of the Roman em- 
 pire, may all the piles of learning wliich human endeavours 
 would rear as a tower of Babel to scale the heavens, dis- 
 appear, leaving but fragments to future generations, as 
 proofs of pre-existent knowledge ! Whether we refer to 
 nature or to art, to knowledge or to power, to accumulation 
 or destruction, bounds have been prescribed which man 
 can nevej- pass, guarded as they are by the same unerring 
 and unseen Power, which threw the planets from his hand, 
 to roll in their appointed orbits. All appears confused 
 below, but all is clear in heaven. 
 
 I have somewhere heard it said, that where heaven may 
 be, those who reach it will behold the mechanism of the 
 universe i^ its perfection. Those stars now studding the 
 fiimament in such apparent confusion, will there appear in 
 all their regularity, as worlds revolving in their several 
 orbits, round suns that gladden them with light and heat, 
 all in harmony, all in beauty, rejoicing as they roll their 
 destined course in obedience to the Almighty fiat; one 
 vast, stupendous, and, to the limits of our present senses, 
 incomprehensible mechanism, perfect in all its parts, most 
 wonderful in the Avhole. Nor do I doubt it: it is but 
 reasonable to suppose it. He that hath made this world 
 and all upon it, can have no limits to His power. 
 
 I wonder whether 1 shall ever see it. 
 
 I said just now, let us think. I had better have said, 
 let us not think ; for thought is painful, even dangerous 
 when carried to excess. Happy is he who thinks but little, 
 whose ideas are so confined as not to cause the intellectual 
 fever, wearing out the mind and body, and often threaten- 
 ing both with dissolution. There is a happy medium of 
 intellect, sufficient to convince us that all is good — suffi- 
 cient to enable us to comprehend that which is revealed, 
 v»'ithont a vain endeavour to pry into the hidden ; to under- 
 stand the one, and lend our faith unto the other ; but when 
 the mind would soar unto the heaven not opened to it, or 
 dive into sealed and dark futurity, how does it return from 
 its several expeditions? confused, alarmed, unhappy; 
 willing to rest, yet restless ; willing to beheve, yet doubting;
 
 OR, TUE aiERCIIANT SERVICE. 285 
 
 willing to end its futile travels, yet setting forth anew. 
 Yet, how is a superior understanding envied ! how coveted 
 by all ! a gift which always leads to danger^ and often to 
 perdition. 
 
 Thank Heaven ! I have not been intrusted with one of 
 those thorough-bred, snorting, champing, foaming sort of 
 intellects, which run away with Common Sense, v.'ho is 
 jerked from his saddle at the beginning of its wild career. 
 Mine is a good, steady, useful hack, who trots along the 
 high-road of life, keeping on his own side, and only 
 stumbling a little now and then, when I happen to be care- 
 less, — ambitious only to arrive safely at the end of his 
 journey, not to pass by others. 
 
 Why am I no longer ambitious? once I was, but 'twas 
 when I was young and foolish. Then methdught *' It 
 were an easy leap to pluck bright honour from the pale- 
 faced moon ;" but now I am old and fat, and there is 
 something in fat which chokes or destroys ambition. It 
 would appear that it is requisite for the body to be active 
 and springing as the mind ; and if it is not, it weighs the 
 latter down to its own gravity. Who ever heard of a fat 
 man being ambitious ? Cajsar was a spare man ; Bona- 
 parte was thin, as long as he climbed the ladder ; Nelson 
 was a shadow. The Duke of Wellington has not sufficient 
 fat in his composition to grease his own Wellington-boots. 
 In short, I think my hypothesis to be fairly borne out, that 
 fat and ambition are incompatible. 
 
 It is very melancholy to be forced to acknowledge this, 
 for I am convinced that it may be of serious injury to my 
 works. An author with a genteel figure will always be 
 more read than one who is corpulent. All his etherealness 
 departs. Some young ladies may have fancied me an ele- 
 gant young man, like Lytton Bulwer, full of fun and 
 humour, concealing all my profound knowledge under the 
 mask of levity, and have therefore read my books with as 
 much delight as has been afforded by Pelham. But the 
 truth must be told. I am a grave, heavy man, with my 
 finger continually laid along my temple, seldom speaking 
 unless spoken to — and when ladies talk, I never open uiy
 
 286 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 mouth ; the consequence is, tliat sometimes, when there 
 is a succession of company, 1 do not speak for a week. 
 Moreover, I am married, with five small children ; and 
 now all I look forward to, and all I covet, is to live in 
 peace, and die in my bed. 
 
 I wonder why I did not commence authorship before ! 
 How true it is that a man never knows what he can do 
 until he tries ! The fact is, I never thought that I could 
 make a novel ; and I was thirty years old before I stumbled 
 on the fact. What a pity ! 
 
 Writing a book reminds me very much of making a 
 passage across the Atlantic. At one moment, when the 
 ideas flow, you have the wind aft, and away you scud, with 
 a flowing sheet, and a rapidity which delights you : at 
 other times, when your spirit flags, and you gnaw your 
 pen (I have lately used iron pens, for I 'm a devil of a 
 crib-biter), it is like unto a foul wind, tack and tack, re- 
 quiring a long time to get on a short distance. But still 
 you do go, although but slowly ; and in both eases we 
 must take the foul wind with the fair. If a ship were to 
 furl her sails until the wind again was favourable, her 
 voyage would be protracted to an indefinite time ; and, jf 
 an author were to wait until he again felt in a humour, it 
 would take a life to write a novel. 
 
 Whenever the wind is foul, which it now most certainly 
 is, for I am writing any thing but " Newton Forster," and 
 which will account for this rambling, stupid chapter, made 
 up of odds and ends, strung together like what we call 
 " skewer pieces " on board of a man-of-war ; when the 
 wind is foul, as I said before, I have, however, a way of 
 going a-hcad, by getting up the steam which I am now 
 about to resort to — and the fuel is brandy. All on this 
 side of the world are asleep, except gamblers, house- 
 breakers, the new police, and authors. My wife is in the 
 arms of Morpheus — an allegorical o'ini. con., which we 
 husbands are obliged to wink at ; and I am making love 
 to the brandy bottle, that I may stimulate my ideas, as 
 unwilling to be roust'd from their dark cells of the brain as 
 the spirit summoned by Lochiel, who implored at each re- 
 sponse, " Leave me, oh ! leave me to repose "
 
 OR, THE JIKKCIIANT SERVICE. 28? 
 
 Now I '11 invoke them,, conjure them up, like little imps, 
 to do my bidding : — 
 
 Cy this glass, which now I drain, 
 
 I5y this spirit, which shall chctr you. 
 As its fumes mount to my brain, 
 
 From thy torpid slumbers rear you. 
 By this head, so tired with thinking, 
 
 liy this hand, no longer trembling. 
 By these lips, so fond of drinking, 
 
 I-et mc foci that you 're assembling. 
 By the bottle placed before me, 
 
 (Food for you, ere morrow's sun). 
 By this second glass, I pour me. 
 
 Come, you litttr beggars, come. 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 British sailors have a knack. 
 
 Haul away, yo ho, boys. 
 Of hauling down a r"renchman's jack 
 
 'Gainst any odds, you know, boys. Old Song. 
 
 There was, I flatter myself, some little skill in the intro- 
 duction of the foregoing chapter, which has played the 
 part of chorus during the time that the Bombay Castle has 
 proceeded on to Canton, has taken in her cargo, and is on 
 her passage home, in company with fifteen other East 
 Indiamen and several country ships, all laden with the 
 riches of the East, and hastening to pour their treasures 
 into the lap of their country. Millions were floating on 
 the waters, intrusted to the skill of merchant-seamcH to 
 convey them home in safety, and to their courage to defend 
 them from the enemy, which had long been lying in wait 
 to intercept them. By a very unusual chance or oversight, 
 there had been no men-of-war despatched to protect a pro- 
 perty of such enormous value. 
 
 The Indian fleet had just entered the Straits of Malacca, 
 and were sailing in open order, with a fresh breeze and 
 smooth water. The hammocks had. been stowed, the decks 
 washed, and the awnings spread. Shoals of albicore were 
 darting across the bows of the different ships ; and the 
 seamen perched upon the cat-heads and sprit.sail-yard, had 
 succeeded in piercing with their harpoons many, which 
 were immediately cut up, and in the frying-pans for break-
 
 288 NEVVTOX FORSTER J 
 
 fast. But very soon they had " other tish to fry : " for one 
 of the Indiamen, the Royal George, made the signal thai 
 there were four strange sail in tlie S. W. 
 
 "A gun from the commodore, sir,"reported Newton, who 
 was officer of the watch. "The flags are up — they are 
 not our pennants." 
 
 It was an order to four ships of the fleet to run down 
 and examine the strange vessels. 
 
 Half an hour elapsed, during which time the glasses 
 were at every mast-head. Captain Drawlock himself, 
 although not much given to climbing, having probably had 
 enough of it during his long career in the service, vvas to 
 be seen in the main. top. Doubts, suspicions, declarations, 
 surmises, and positive assertions were bandied about, until 
 they were all dispelled by the reconnoitring ships tele- 
 graphing, " a French squadron, consisting of one line-of- 
 battle ship, three frigates, and a brig." It was, in fact, 
 the well known squadron of Admiral Linois, who had 
 scoured the Indian seas, ranging it up and down with the 
 velocity as well as the appetite of a shark. His force con- 
 sisted of the Marengo, of eighty-guns ; the famed Belle 
 Poule, a forty-gun frigate, which out-stripped the wind ; 
 the Semillante, of thirty-six guns; the Berceau ship cor- 
 vette of twenty-two, and a brig of sixteen. They had 
 sailed from Batavia on purpose to intercept the China fleet, 
 having received intelligence that it was unprotected, and 
 anticipating an easy conquest, if not an immediate surren- 
 der to their overpowering force. 
 
 " The recall is up, on board of the commodore," said 
 Mathews, the first-mate, to Captain Drawlock. 
 
 " Very %vell, keep a good-look-out; he intends to fight, 
 r 11 answer for it. We must not surrender up millions to 
 these French scoundrels without a tussle." 
 
 " I should hope not," replied Mathews ; " but that big 
 fellow will make a general average among our tea canisters. 
 I expect, when we do come to the scratch. There go the 
 flags, sir," continued Mathews, repeating the number to 
 Captain Drawlock, who had the signal-book in his hand. 
 
 " Form line of battle in close order, and prepare f(< 
 action," read Captain Drawlock from the signal-book.
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 289 
 
 A ch^r resounded through the fleet when the signal was 
 made known. The ships were already near enough to e«ch 
 other to hear the shouting, and the confidence of others, 
 added to their own. 
 
 " If we only had all English seamerx on board, instead 
 of these Lascars and Chinamen, who look so blank," ob- 
 served Newton to Mathews, *■' I think we would show them 
 some play." 
 
 "^ Yes," growled Mathews, " John Company will some 
 day find out the truth of the old proverb, " Penny wise 
 and pound foolish !" 
 
 The Frencli squadron, which had continued on the wind 
 to leeward until they could fetch the India fleet, now 
 tacked and laid up directly for them. In the mean time 
 the English vessels were preparing for action: the clearing 
 of their lumbered decks was the occasion of many a coop 
 of fowls or pig of tlie true China breed, exchanging their 
 destiny for a watery grave. Fortunately, there were no 
 passengers. Homeward-bound China ships are not incum- 
 bered in that way, unless to astonish the metropolis with 
 such monstrosities as the mermaid, or as the Siamese twins, 
 coupled by nature like two hounds (separated lately indeed 
 by Lytton Bulwer, who has satisfactorily proved that 
 " unity between brethren," so generally esteemed a bless- 
 ing, on the contrary, is a bore). In a short time all was 
 ready, and the Indian fleet continued their course under 
 easy sail, neither courting nor avoiding the conflict. 
 
 At night-fall the French squadron hauled to the wind : 
 the conduct of the China fleet rendered them cautious, and 
 the French admiral considered it advisable to ascertain by 
 broad daylight whether a portion of the English ships were 
 not men-of-war ; their cool and determined behaviour cer- 
 tainly warranted the suspicion. It was now to be decided 
 whether the Indiamen should take advantage of the dark- 
 ness of the night to escape, or wait the result of the ensuing 
 day. The force opposed to them was formidable and con-« 
 centrated ; their own, on the contrary, was weak from 
 division, each ship not having more than sixty English 
 seamen on board ; the country ships none at all, tlie few 
 oelonging to them having vohmteered on board of the Jn- 
 u
 
 2S0 NEWTOiV FORSTER ; 
 
 dianien. In his decision Commodore Dance proved his 
 judgment as well as his courage. In an attempt to escape^ 
 the fleet would separate ; and, from the well-known supe- 
 rior sailing of the French squadron, most of them would 
 be overtaken, and, being attacked single-handed, fall an t; 
 easy prey to the enemy. ■] 
 
 In this opinion the captains of the Indiamen, who had 
 communicated during the night, were unanimous, anc 
 equally so in the resolution founded upon it, " to keep to- 
 gether and fight to the last." The India fleet lay to for 
 the night, keeping their lights up and the men at their 
 quarters ; most of the English seamen sound asleep, the 
 Lascars and Chinese sitting up in groups, expressing in 
 their own tongues their fear of the approaching combat, in 
 which, whether risked for national honour or individual 
 property, they could have no interest. 
 
 The morning broke, and discovered the French squadron 
 about three miles to windward. Admiral Linois had cal- 
 culated, that if the fleet consisted only of merchant vessels, 
 they would have profitted by the darkness to have attempted 
 to escape, and he had worked to windward during the night, 
 that he might be all ready to pounce down upon his quarry. 
 But when he perceived that the English ships did not 
 attempt to increase their distance, he was sadly puzzled. 
 
 The French tricolour hardly had time to blow clear from 
 their tafFrails, when the English unions waved aloft in de. 
 fiance ; and that Admiral Linois might be more perplexed 
 by the arrangements of the night, three of the most warlike 
 appearing Indiamen displayed the red ensign, while the 
 remainder of the ships hoisted up the blue. This ruse led 
 the French admiral to suppose that these three vessels were 
 men-of-war, composing the escort of the fleet. 
 
 At nine o'clock the commodore made the signal to fill ; 
 and the French squadron not bearing down, the India fleel 
 continued its course under easy sail. The French admiral 
 then edged away with his squadron, with the intention of 
 cutting off the country ships which had been stationed to 
 leeward ; but which, since the British fleet had hauled 
 their wind, had been left in the rear. It was now requisite 
 tor the British commantier to act decidedly and firmly.
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 291 
 
 (. aptaiH Timmins, an officer for courage and conduct not 
 surpassed by any in our naval service, who commanded the 
 Royal George, edged to within hail of the commodore, and 
 recommended that the order should be given to tack in 
 succession, bear down in a line a-head, and engage the 
 enemy. This spirited advice was acted upon: the Royal 
 George leading into action, followed by the other ships in 
 such close order that their flying jib-booms were often 
 pointed over the tafFrails of their predecessors. 
 
 In a quarter of an hour was to be witnessed the unusual 
 spectacle of a fleet of merchant ships exchanging broad- 
 sides with the best equipped and highest disciplined 
 squadron that ever sailed from France. In less than an 
 hour was presented the more unusual sight of this squadron 
 flying from the merchant ships, and the signal for a ge- 
 neral chase answered Avith enthusiastic cheers. 
 
 That Admiral Linois might have supposed, previous to 
 the engagement, that some of the British ships were men- 
 of-war, is probable ; but tliat he knew otherwise after they 
 had commenced action, must also have been the ca'se. 
 The fact was, he was frightened at their determined couv 
 rage and their decided conduct ; and he fled, not from the 
 guns, but from the men. 
 
 I do not know on record any greater instance of heroism 
 on the part of Britisli seamen ; and I am delighted that 
 Newton Forster was in the conflict, or of course I could 
 not have introduced it in this work. 
 
 And now, those who read for amusement may, if they 
 please, skip over to the next chapter. There are points 
 connected with the India service which I intend to com- 
 ment upon ; and as all the wisdom of the age is conflned 
 to novels, and nobody reads pamphlets, I introduce then; 
 here. 
 
 When one man is empowered to hold in check, and to 
 Insist upon the obedience of a large proportion of his fel- 
 lows, it can only be by " opinion" that his authority can 
 be supported. 
 
 By " opinion," I mean the knowledge that he is so 
 empowered by the laws of the country to which they all 
 belong, and by which laws they will be punished, if they act 
 V 2
 
 292 NEWTON FOBSTEU ; 
 
 in opposition to his authority. The fiat of the individual 
 commanding is in this case the fiat of the nation at large ; 
 to contend with tlas fiat is not contending with the indi- 
 vidual, but witli the nation, to whose laws they must sub- 
 mit, or return to their country no more. A commander 
 of a vessel, therefore, armed with martial law, is in fact 
 representing and executing, not his own will, but that of 
 the nation who have made the law ; for he is amenable, 
 as well as his inferiors, if he acts contrary to, or misuses it. 
 
 In die mercliant service martial law is not permitted ; 
 the bye-laws relative to shipping, and the common law of 
 the country, are supposed to be sufficient, and certainly the 
 present system is more advisable than to vest such excessive 
 power in the hands of men, who, generally speaking, nei- 
 ther require nor are fit to be intrusted with it. Where, as 
 in the greater number of merchant vessels, the master and 
 hrs subordinate officers compose one-third, if not one-half 
 of the complement on board, nothing but the most flagrant 
 conduct is likely to produce insubordination. 
 
 But in the East India service the case is different. The 
 vessels themselves are of dim.ensions equal if not superior 
 to our largest class of frigates, and they carry from thirty 
 to forty guns ; the property embarked in them is also of 
 such an extent, that the loss almost becomes national : 
 their commanders are men of superior attainments, as gen- 
 tlemen and as officers ; finally, the complement of seamen 
 under their command is larger than on board of many of 
 the king's ships. 
 
 The above considerations will at once establish that those 
 by-laws which afford protection to the well-governir.g of 
 the merchant service in general, are not sufficient to main- 
 tain the necessary discipline on board of the East India 
 ships. The greater the disproportion between the unit 
 who commands and the numbers who obey, the greater 
 the chance of mutiny. Sedition is the progeny of assembly. 
 Even where grievances may be real, if there is no contact 
 and no discussion, there will be no insubordination ; but 
 imaginary grievances, canvassed and discussed in assembly, 
 sw-ell into disaffection and mutiny. When therefore num- 
 bers are collected together, as in the vessels of the East
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 2j3 
 
 India service, martial law becomes indispensable ; and the 
 proof of it is, that the commanders of these vessels have 
 been forced to exercise it upon their own responsibility. 
 A letter of marque should be granted to all vessels carrying 
 a certain number of men, empowering the commanders, 
 under certain sureties and penalties, to exercise this power. 
 It would be a boon to the East India ships, and ultimately 
 a benefit to the navy. 
 
 . To proceed. The merchant ships of the Company are 
 men-of-war ; the men-of-war of the Company are — what 
 shall I call them ? By their right names — they are all 
 Bombay Marine : but let me at once assert, in applying 
 their own name to them as a reproach, that the officers 
 commanding them are not included in the stigma. I have 
 served with them, and have pleasure in stating that, taking 
 the average, the vessels are as well officered as those in our 
 own service ; but let us describe the vessels and their crews. 
 Most of the vessels are smaller in scantling than the run- 
 down (and constantly <7oi?/r/ down) ten-gun brigs in our own 
 service, built for a light draft of water (as they were ori- 
 ginally intended to act against the pirates, which occa- 
 sionally infest the Indian seas), and unfit to contend with 
 any thing like a heavy sea. Many of them are pierced for, 
 and actually carry fourteen to sixteen guns ; but, as ef- 
 fective fighting vessels, ought not to have been pierced for 
 more than eight. I have no hesitation in asserting that an 
 English cutter is a match for any of them, and a French 
 privateer, has, before now, proved that she was superior. 
 The crews are composed of a small proportion of English 
 seamen, a small proportion of Portuguese sea-cunnies, a 
 proportion of Lascars, and a proportion of Hindoo Bom- 
 bay marines It requires two or three languages to carry 
 on the duty ; customs, religions, provisions, all different, 
 and all living and messing separate. How is it possible 
 that any officer can discipline a ship's company of this in- 
 congruous description, so as to make them '' pull together.'' " 
 In short, the vessels and the crews are equally contemptible, 
 and the officers in cases of difficulty must be sacrificed to 
 the pride and meanness of the Company. My reason for 
 taking notice of the " Bombay Marine" arises from an 
 u 3
 
 294i NEWTON FOHSTEH : 
 
 order lately promulgated, in which the officers of this ser- 
 vice were to take rank and precedence with those of the 
 navy. Now, as far as the officers themselves are concerned, 
 so far from having any objection to it, I wish, for their 
 own merits and the good-Avill that 1 bear them, that they 
 were incorporated into our navy-list ; but as long as they 
 command vessels of the above description, in the event of 
 a war, I will put a case, to prove the absurdity and dangei 
 which may result. There is not one vessel at this present 
 time in their service which would not be sunk by one well- 
 directed broadside from a large frigate ; yet as many of 
 their officers are of long standing, it is very probable that 
 a squadron of English frigates may fall in with one of these 
 vessels, the captain of which would be authorised by his 
 seniority to take the command of the whole of them. We 
 will suppose that this squadron falls in with the enemy, of 
 equal or superior force ; can the officer in command lead 
 on the attack ? If so, he will be sent down by the first 
 broadside. If he does not, from whom are the orders to 
 proceed during the action ? The consequences would be 
 as injurious as the arrangement is ridiculous. 
 
 The charter of the East India Company will soon ex- 
 pire ; and if it is to be renewed, the country ought to have 
 some indemnification for the three millions which this co- 
 lony or conquest (which you please) annually draws from 
 it. Now there is one point which deserves consideration ; 
 the constitutional protection of all property is by the na- 
 tion, and as a naval force is required in India, that force 
 should be supplied by the armaments of the nation, at the 
 expense of the Company. I have already proved that the 
 Bombay Marine is a useless and incompetent service : let 
 it be abolished altogether, and men-of-war be sent out to 
 supply their place. It is most important that our navy 
 should be employed in time of peace, and our officers gain 
 that practical knowledge, without which the theoretical is 
 useless. Was this insisted upon, a considerable force 
 would be actively employed, at no expense to the country, 
 and many officers become valuable, who now are remaining 
 inactive, and forgetting what previous knowledge they 
 may have acquired of their nautical duties.
 
 OR, XUE MERCHANT SlillV'lCt. 295 
 
 At the same time, every East India ship should be com^ 
 pelled to take on board her whole complement of English 
 seamen, and not be half manned by Lascars and Cliinamen. 
 
 But I presume I must be careful how I attempt to le- 
 gislate for that country, or I shall have two tame elephants 
 sent after me by the man what puts his hair in papers ' 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 What singular emotions fill 
 Their bosoms, who have lioen induced to roamj 
 With Hattering doubts, if ali be well or ill. 
 
 With love for many, and with fears for some ! Byron. 
 
 The China fleet arrived without encountering any further 
 danger ; the commodore and commanders of the several 
 ships composing the fleet received that praise from their 
 countrymen to which their conduct had so fully entitled 
 them. As soon as the Bombay Castle had entered the 
 basin of the East India docks Newton requested, and easily 
 obtained, permission to leave the ship. He immediately 
 directed his s^^eps to Greenwich, that he might ascertain if 
 his father was in existence ; for he had received no letters 
 since his departure, although he had taken several oppor- 
 tunities to write. It is true that he had not expected any; 
 he knew that his father was too absent ever to think about 
 writing to him, and his uncle much too busy to throw 
 away any portion of his time in unnecessary corre- 
 spondence. 
 
 When we approach the dwelling containing, or supposed 
 to contain, an object of solicitude, of whose existence we 
 are. imcertain, what a thrill of anxiety pervades the frame I 
 How quickened is the throbbing of the heart! how checked 
 the respiration ! Thus it was with Newton Forster as he 
 raised his hand to the latch of the door. He oj)ened it, 
 and the first object which delighted his eyes was his father 
 seated upon a high stool, smoking his pipe, in the company 
 of two veterans of the hospital, who had, brought their old 
 u 4
 
 296 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 bones to an anchor upon a large trunk. They were in 
 earnest conversation, and did not perceive the company of 
 Newton, who waited a Httle while holding the door ajar, 
 as he contemplated the group. 
 
 One of the pensioners was speaking, and continued : — 
 " May be, or may not be, Mr. Forster, that's dubersome ; 
 but if so be as how he is alive, why, you'll see him soon, 
 that's sartain — take my word for it. A good son, as you 
 say he was, as soon as he can get over the side of the ship, 
 always bears up for his parent's house. "W^ith the help of 
 your barnacles, I worked my way clean through the whole 
 yarn, and I seed the report of killed and wounded ; and 
 I'll take my affidavy that there warn't an officer in the 
 fleet as lost the number of his mess in th.at action, and a 
 most clipping affair it was ; only think of mounseer turn- 
 ing tail to marchant vessels ! Damn my old buttons ! what 
 will our jolly fellows do next.''" 
 
 " Next, Bill ! why, there be nothing to do, less they 
 shave off the beard of the grand Turk to make a swab for 
 the cabin of the king's yatch, and sarve out his seven 
 hundred wives amongst the fleet. I say, I wonder how 
 he keeps so many of them craft in good order ?" 
 
 " I knows," replied the other, " for I axed the very 
 question when I was up the Dardanelles. There be a black 
 fellow, a unique they calls him, with a large sword and a 
 bag of saw-dust, as always stands centry at the door, and 
 if so be a woman kicks up a bobbery, why plump her head 
 goes into the bag." 
 
 " "Well that 's one way to make a good woman on her ; 
 but, as I was a saying, Mr. Forster, you musn't ])e down 
 iu the mouth ; a seaman as knows his duty, never cares 
 for leave till all the work be done. I 'd bet a yard of pig- 
 tail that Mr. Newton " 
 
 " Is here, my good fellow ! interrupted Newton. '^ My 
 dear father !" 
 
 Nicholas sprung off his seat, and embraced his son. 
 
 " My dear, dear boy ! why did you not come to me be- 
 fore ? I was afraid that you had been killed. Well I'm glad 
 to see you, Newton. How did you like the West Indies ^' 
 
 " The East Hinges, you mean, Mr. Forster. — NewtOH,"
 
 OR, THK BIERCHANT SERVICE. 297 
 
 continued die old pensioner, wiping both sides of his hand 
 upon his bhie breeches, and then extending it — "Tip us 
 your daddle, my lad ; I like to touch the flipper of one 
 who has helped to shame the enemy ; and it will be no 
 disgrace for you to grapple with an old seaman, who did 
 his duty as long as he had a pin to stand upon." 
 
 " AVith pleasure, my friend," replied Newton, taking the 
 old man's hand, while the other veteran seized the one un- 
 occupied, and surveying Newton from top to toe, observed 
 — " If your ship be manned Avith all such lads as you, — 
 why she be damned well manned, that's all." 
 
 Newton laughed, and turned to his father. 
 
 " Well, father, how are you ? Have you been quite 
 well ? And how do you like your berth here ? " 
 
 " Why, Newton, I get on much better than I did at 
 Bristol." 
 
 " It be Liverpool he mean, Mr. Newton ; but your good 
 father be a little damaged in his upper works ; his me- 
 mory-box be like a sieve. — Come, Bill, we be two too 
 many. When father and son meet after an India voyage, 
 there be much to say as wants no listeners. — Good-bye, 
 ]Mr. Forster ; may you never want a son, and may he never 
 want a ship ! " 
 
 Newton smiled his thanks to the considerate old pen- 
 sioners as they stumped out of the door, and left him alone 
 with his father. The communications of Nicholas were 
 as concise as usual. He liked his situation, liked his com- 
 pany, had as much work as he wished for, and had enjoyed 
 good health. When Newton entered upon pecuniary mat- 
 ters, which he was the sooner induced to do by observing 
 that his father's coat and small-clothes were in a most ruin- 
 ous condition, he discovered, that though the old gentleman 
 had provided himself with money from the bankers, during 
 the first year, to purchase a new suit of clothes, latterly he 
 not only had quite forgotten that there were funds at his 
 disposal, but even that he had procured the clothes, which 
 had remained in the chest from the day they had been 
 sent home without having been tried on. 
 
 " Dear me ! now I recollect, so I did, and I put them 
 up stairs somewhere. I was busy at the time with my im- 
 provement on the duplex.''
 
 298 NEWTON FORSTKR ; 
 
 " Have you seen much of my uncle, sir ? " inquired 
 Newton. 
 
 " Your uncle ! dear me, no ! — I don't know where he 
 lives, so I Availed until you came back, We'll go to-mor- 
 row, Newton, or he may think me unkind. I '11 see if his 
 watch goes well. I recollect he said it did; but, Newton, 
 tell me all about your voyage, and the action with the 
 French ships." 
 
 Newton entered into a detail, during which he perceived 
 by his father's questions that his memory had become more 
 impaired, and that he was more absent than ever. Rear- 
 ranged to call upon his uncle the ensuing day, and then it 
 was his intention, without communicating it to his father, 
 to make every inquiry, and advertise to ascertain the fate 
 of his mother. This was a duty which he had long wished 
 to repeat ; but his necessities and want of time had hitherto 
 prevented the renewal of the task. 
 
 Early the next morning Newton and his father went up 
 to London by the Greenwich coach, and a walk of a few 
 minutes after they were put down, brought them to the 
 chambers of Mr. John Forster. 
 
 " How do you do, Mr. Scratton ? Is my uncle at 
 home ? " inquired Mr. Newton. 
 
 Mr. Scratton immediately recognised him, and very gra- 
 ciously replied, that his uncle was at home, and would 
 be very glad to see him, having talked very often of him 
 lately. 
 
 Newton and his father were ushered into the parlour 
 where he found his uncle precisely in the same position as 
 when he last saw him ; — it would almost have appeared 
 that he had not quitted his seat during Newton's tedious 
 voyage. 
 
 " Nephew," said Mr. John Forster, without rising from 
 his chair, " I am very glad to see you. — Brother Nicholas, 
 I am very glad to see you, too. — " Chairs, Scratton," 
 continued the old lawyer, taking his watch off the table 
 and placing it in his fob. " Well, nephew, 1 am very 
 glad to hear such good accounts of you. I saw Mr. 
 Bosanquet yesterday, and he told me that you had for 
 your good conduct been promoted to the rank of second- 
 mate,"
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SEttVICB. 299 
 
 " It is more than T am aware of," replied Newton, 
 much pleased with the information. '' I am much obliged to 
 you for the inteUigence, as I am for your many other acts 
 of kindness." 
 
 " Well, so you ought to be. It's no bad thing, as I 
 told you before, to find out an uncle. By-the-bye, there 
 has been some alteration in my establishment since we 
 parted, nephew. I have a house in Lincoln's-Inn-Fields 
 and a spare bed, if you will accept of it. We dine at six ; 
 brother Nicholas, I shall be very happy to see you, if you 
 can stay. It will be too late to go home after dinner, but 
 you can share my nephew's bed." 
 
 " I shall be most happy to accept your kind offer for a 
 few days, sir, if it does not incommode you," replied 
 Newton. 
 
 " No ; you will not incommode me there, but you do 
 very much here, where I am always busy ; so good-bye, my 
 boy, I shall be at home at six. Brother Nicholas, you did 
 not vouchsafe me an answer." 
 
 "About what, brother John.''" replied Nicholas, who 
 had been in the clouds. " 
 
 "Oh, I'll tell you all about it, father," said Newton, 
 laughing. " Come away now, my uncle is busy ;" and 
 Nicholas rose up, with the observation — 
 
 " Brother John, you appear to me to read a great deal." 
 
 " Yes, I do, brother." 
 
 " How much do you read in a day ? " 
 
 " I really cannot say ; much depends upon whether I 
 am interrupted or not." 
 
 " It must be very bad for your eyes, brother John." 
 
 " It certainly does not improve them," replied the law- 
 yer, impatiently. 
 
 " Come, father, my uncle is very busy," said Newton, 
 touching Nicholas on the arm. 
 
 " Well, good-bye, brother John. I had something to 
 say — oh ! I hope you are not displeased at my not coming 
 to see you before }" 
 
 "• Humph ! not in the least, I can assure you, brother 
 Nicholas; so good-bye. Newton, you'll bring him with
 
 •^00 NEWTON FORSTER; 
 
 you at Six," said Mr. John Forster, and he resumed his 
 briet before tliey had quitted the room. 
 
 Newton was much surprised to hear that his uncle had 
 taken a house, and he surmised wliether he had not also 
 been induced to take a wife. He felt an inclination to put 
 the question to Mr. Scratton, as he passed through the of- 
 fice, but checked the wish, lest it should appear like prvin- 
 into his uncle's affairs. Being the month of February i*^ 
 was dark long before six o'clock, and Newton was puzzled 
 what to do with his father until that time. He returned 
 to the Salopian Coffee-house, opposite to which they had 
 been put down by the Greenwich coach, and, takino- pos- 
 session of a box, called for some biscuits and a pirft of 
 sherry, and requesting his father to stay there until his re 
 turn went out to purchase a sextant, and some other nau- 
 tical luxuries, which his pay enabled him to procure without 
 trespassing upon the funds supplied by the generosity of 
 bis uncle He then returned to his father, who had 
 hnished the wine and biscuits, and had his eyes fixed upon 
 the ceiling of the room; and, calling a hackney-coach, 
 drove to the direction which his uncle had pointed out as 
 Ins residence. 
 
 Mr. John Forster had already come home ; and they 
 lound him in the dining-room, decanting the wine for 
 dinner, with Amber by his side. Newton was surprised 
 at the appearance of a little girl ; and, as he took her prof- 
 lered hand, inquired lier name. 
 
 " Amber. I'apa says it's a very foolish name • don't 
 you, papa ? " 
 
 " Yes, my dear, I do; but now we are going to dinner 
 and you must go to Mrs. Smith ; so good night. 
 
 Amber kissed the old lawyer, as he stooped io her, and 
 wishing the company good night, she left the room. 
 
 ' Brother John," said Nicholas, " I really had no idea 
 that you were a married man." 
 
 '^^ Humph ! I am not a married man, brother." 
 
 '' Then, pray, brother, how is it possible for that little 
 girl to be your daughter ? " 
 
 " I did not say she was my daughter : but now we wiU
 
 OK, THE MERCHANT SERVICK. 301 
 
 go up stairs into the drawing-room, while they put the 
 dinner on the table." 
 
 The dinner was soon announced ; the cookery was plain 
 but good, the wine excellent. AVhen the dessert was 
 placed on the table, Mr. John Forster rose, and taking two 
 bottles of port wine from the sideboard, placed them on 
 the table, and addressed Newton. 
 
 " Nephew, 1 have no time to sip wine, although it is 
 necessary that I drink it. Now, we must drink fast, as I 
 have only ten minutes to spare ; not that I wish you to 
 drink more than you like, but I must })ush the bottle 
 round, whether you fill or no, as I have an appointment, 
 what we call a consultation, at my chambers. Pass the 
 bottle brother," continued the lawyer, helping himself, and 
 shoving the decanter to Nicholas. 
 
 Nicholas, who had been little accustomed to wine, obeyed 
 mechanically, swallowing down each glass a (jorge deployee, 
 as he was awoke from his meditations by the return of the 
 bottle, and then filhng up tiis glass again. Newton, who 
 could take his allowance as well as most people, could not 
 however venture to drink glass for glass with his uncle, 
 and the bottle was passdng several times without his filling. 
 AFhen the ten minutes had elapsed, Mr. John Forster 
 took his watch from the table, replaced it in his fob, and 
 rose from his chair. Locking up the remainder of the 
 wine, he quitted the house without apology, leaving his 
 guests to entertain themselves and order tea when they felt 
 inclined. 
 
 " INIy brother seems to be very busy, Newton," observed 
 Nicholas. " What wine was that we have been drinking > 
 It was very strong ; I declare my head turns round ; anti 
 in a few moments more Nicholas dropped his head upon 
 the table, and was fast asleep. 
 
 Newton, who perceived that his father was aflected by 
 the wine which he had been drinking, which was, in the 
 sum total, a pint of sherry at the cofFee-house before tlinner, 
 and at least a bottle during and after his meal, thought it 
 better that he should be allowed to take his nap. He there- 
 fore put out the candles and went up into the drawing- 
 room, where he amused himself with a book until the
 
 302 NliWTO-V FORSTEU ; 
 
 clock struck tvyfelve. According to the regulations of the 
 house^ the servants had retired to bed, leaving a light in 
 the passage for their master on his return, which sometimes 
 was at a very late hour, or rather, it should be said, at a 
 very early one. Newton lighted a chamber candlestick 
 and went down into the parlour to rouse his father ; but 
 all his attempts were in vain. The wine had taken such 
 an effect upon him, that he was in a state of lethargy. 
 Newton observed that the servant had cleared the table, and 
 that the fire was out : and, as there was no help for it, he 
 removed the chairs to the end of the room, that his father 
 might not tumble over them if he awoke in the dark, and 
 then retired to his own bed. 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 Angels and ministers of grace defend us ! 
 
 * * * * 
 
 Be thy intents wicked or charitable, 
 
 Thou com'st in such a questionable shape 
 
 That I will speak to thee. Shakspeare. 
 
 It was past two o'clock when Mr. John Forster returned 
 from his chambers and let himself in with a pass-key. 
 Having secured the street door, the old gentleman lighted 
 his candle from the lamp, which he then blew out, and 
 had his foot upon the first step of the stairs, when he was 
 startled by a loud snore from Nicholas in the dining-room ; 
 he immediately proceeded there, and found his brother, 
 with his head still lying on the table. 
 
 "Humph!" ejaculated the lawyer, "Why brother 
 Nicholas ! brother Nicholas ! " 
 
 Nicholas, who had nearly slept off the effects of the 
 wine, answered with an unintelligible sort of growling. 
 
 " Brother Nicholas, I say — brother Nicholas — will 
 you get up, or lie here all night ? " 
 
 " They shall be cleaned and ready by to-morrow mom- 
 iig," replied Nicholas, dreaming.
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 303 
 
 " Humph ! that 's more than you will be, appaicntly. • — 
 I say, brother Nicholas." 
 
 " Yes brother," replied Nicholas, raising liis head and 
 staring at the candle. " Why, what 's the matter ? " 
 
 " The matter is, that I wish to go to bed, and wish to 
 see you in bed before I go myself." 
 
 " Yes, brother John, if you please, certainly. Where 's 
 my bed ? I do believe I have been asleep." 
 
 " Humph ! I have no doubt upon the subject," re- 
 plied John Forster, lighting another candle. " Come 
 this Avay, brother Nicholas," and they both ascended the 
 stairs. 
 
 When Mr. John Forster arrived at the door of his own 
 room, on the first story, he stopped. " Now, brother 
 Nicholas, are you quite awake } Do you think that I may 
 trust you with a candle ? " 
 
 " I should hope so," replied Nicholas ; " 1 see that it is 
 silver, but 1 hope I 'm honest, brother John." 
 
 " Humph ! I mean, can I trust you to put it out ? " 
 
 " Yes, I think that you may. Pray which is my 
 room ? " 
 
 " The first door on the left, when you are at the top of 
 the stairs." 
 
 " The first door." 
 
 '•' Yes, the first on the left ; do you understand } " 
 
 '•' Yes, brother, I do; the first door on the left." 
 
 *' Very well ; then I wish you a good-night." 
 
 " Good-night, brother," replied Nicholas, ascending the 
 stairs as John Forster entered his room. 
 
 Nicholas arrived at the head of the stairs ; but his brain 
 was not very clear. He muttered to himself " I think 
 I 'm right — yes, I 'm right — the first door — to the 
 right — yes — that 's it," and instead of the room to the 
 left, where Newton was, he walked into the one to the 
 right, w^hich appertained to the housekeeper, ]\Irs. Smith. 
 
 Tlie old lady was fast asleep. Nicholas threw off his 
 clothes, put out his candle, and stepped into bed without 
 waking the old lady, whom he supposed to be his son, and 
 ii a fev/ minutes they snored in concert. 
 
 The morning dawned. The watchmen (London night*
 
 304- NEWTON FORSTEK ; 
 
 ingales) ceased their notes and retired to their beds. The 
 chimney-sweeps (larks of the metropoHs) raised their shrill 
 cry as they paced along with chattering teeth. House- 
 maids and kitchen-maids presented their back views to the 
 early passengers, as they Avashed ofF the accumulation of 
 the previous day from the steps of the front door. " Milk 
 below" (certainly much below "proof" was answered by 
 the assent of the busy cooks, when a knock at the door of 
 Mrs. Smith's room from the red knuckles of the housemaid, 
 awoke her to a sense of her equivocal situation. 
 
 At her first discovery that a man was in her bed, she 
 uttered a scream of horror, throwing herself upon her 
 knees, and extending her hands before her in her amaze- 
 ment. The scream awoke Nicholas, who, astonished at the 
 sight, and his modesty equally outraged, also threw him- 
 self in the same posture, facing her, and recoiling. Each 
 looked aghast at each : each considered the other as the 
 lawless invader ; but before a word of explanation could 
 pass between therh, their countenances changed from 
 horror to surprise, from surprise to anxiety and doubt. 
 
 " Why ! " screamed the housekeeper, losing her breath 
 with astonishment. 
 
 " It is ! " cried Nicholas, retreating further. 
 '■' Yes — yes — it is — my dear Nicholas ! " 
 '•Mo — it can 'the," replied Nicholas, hearing the fond 
 appellation. 
 
 " It is — oh! yes — it is your poor unhappy wife, who 
 begs your pardon, Nicholas," cried the housekeeper, burst- 
 ing into tears, and falling into his arms. 
 
 " ]\Iy dear — dear wife ! " exclaimed Nicholas, as he 
 threw his arms around her, and each sobbed upon the 
 other's shoulder. 
 
 In this position they remained a minute, when Mr. 
 John Forster, who heard the scream and subsequent ex- 
 clamations,, and had taken it for granted that his brother 
 had been guilty of some confre temps, first wiped the re- 
 maining lather from his half-shaved chin, and then ascended 
 to the housekeeper's room from Avhence the noise had pro- 
 ceeded. When he opened the door, he found them in the 
 position we have described, both kneeling in the centre of
 
 OR, TUE MERCHANT SERVICE. 305 
 
 the bed embracing ami sobbing. They were so wrapped in 
 each other, that they did not perceive his entrance. Mr, 
 John Forster stared with amazement for a few seconds 
 and thus growled out: — 
 
 " Why, what are you two old fools about ? " 
 
 "It's my husband, sir," — 'Mt's my wife, brother 
 John," cried they, both at once, as the tears coursed down 
 their cheeks. 
 
 " Humph ! " ejaculated the lawyer, and he quitted the 
 room. 
 
 We must let the reader imagine the various explanations 
 which took place betAveen Nicholas and his truly reformed 
 wife, Newton and his uncle, Amber, and every body in the 
 household, while we narrate the events Avhich had brought 
 about this singular denouement. 
 
 The reader may recollect that we left INfrs. Forster in 
 the lunatic asylum, slowly recovering from an attack of the 
 brain-fever, which had been attended witli a relapse. For 
 many weeks she continued in a state of great feebleness, 
 and during that time, when in the garden, in company 
 with other denizens of this melancholy abode (wishing to 
 be usefully employed), she greatly assisted the keepers in 
 restraining them, and, in a short time, established that 
 superiority over them, which is invariably the result of a 
 sane intellect. This was soon perceived by Doctor Bed- 
 dington, who (aware of her destitute condition) offered her 
 a situation as nurse in the establishment, uritil the inspect- 
 ing magistrates should make their appearance, with the 
 promise that she might continue in it afterwards, if she 
 thought proper. This proposal Avas accepted by Mrs. For- 
 ster, until she might resolve what course to take, and she 
 soon became a most invaluable person in the establishment, 
 effecting more by lenient and kind treatment than the 
 keepers were able to do by their violence. So completely 
 changed was Mrs. Forster in disposition, that so far from 
 feeling any resentment against those who had been the 
 means of her confinement, she acknowledged to herself that 
 her own conduct had been the occasion of her misfortune, 
 and that those who had contributed to open her eyes to her 
 former insanity, were her best friends. She was humbled, 
 
 X
 
 30G' NEWTON FOUSTEll ; 
 
 and unhappy ; but she kissed the rod. All that she now 
 wished was to find out her husband^ and by her future 
 conduct to make reparation for the past. One of the gaolers, 
 at her request, made every inquiry as to the part of En- 
 gland Nicholas had removed ; but it was without success. 
 All trace was lost, and Mrs. Forster accepted the situation 
 of nurse, until she might be enabled to prosecute her 
 search, or obtain the intelligence which she desired. 
 
 For nine months Mrs. Forster remained on the establish- 
 ment, during which time she had saved a sum of money 
 sufficient for her support and travelling expenses. She 
 then resolved to search after her husband, Avhose pardon 
 for her previous conduct seemed to be the sine qua non for 
 which she continued to exist. She took leave of the doctor ; 
 and, strange to say, it was with feelings of regret that she 
 quitted an abode, once the source of horror and disgust : 
 but time reconciles us to every thing, and she made a half 
 promise to Dr. Beddington, that if she could not hear any 
 tidings of her husband, or should discover that he was no 
 more, that she would return to the situation. 
 
 Mrs. Forster directed her course to London ; why, or 
 wherefore, she hardly knew ; but she had imbibed the 
 idea that the metropolis was the most likely place to meet 
 with him. Her first inquiries were about any families of 
 the name of Forster ; but the Directory gave such an enor- 
 mous list of Forsters, of all trades and callings, and in 
 every situation in life, that she closed it with despair. She 
 had a faint recollection that her husband (who was not 
 very communicative, and least of all to her), had stated 
 that he had a brother alive somewhere ; but this was all 
 that she knew. Nevertheless, she set about her task in good 
 earnest, and called upon every one of the name in the mid- 
 dling classes of life, to ascertain if they were relations of 
 her husband. There were many in high life whose names 
 and addresses she had obtained from the Red-book ; but 
 to them she dared not apply. All she could do was to 
 question the servants ; but every answer was unsatis- 
 factory; and Mrs. Forster, whose money was nearly ex- 
 pended, had serious thoughts of returning to the lunatic 
 estabUshment, when the advertisement in the newspapers of
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 307 
 
 i\Ir. Scratton, for a housekeeper, which Mr. John Forster 
 had desh-ed him to procure, met her eye. UnwiUlng to 
 leave London, she applied for, and obtained the situation, 
 having received an excellent character from Doctor Bed- 
 dington, to whom she had written and explained her views. 
 
 Her lieart leapt when she discovered that her master's 
 name was Forster ; and when she first saw him she could 
 •not but persuade herself that there was a family likeness. 
 'th.e germs of hope were, however, soon withered, when 
 Amber, in answer to her inquiries, stated, that Mr. Forster 
 had a brother lately dead, who had never been married, 
 and that she never heard of his having another. Her fel- 
 low-servants were all as strange as herself; and ]\Irs. 
 Forster (who had assumed the name of Smith) was obliged 
 to have recourse to that patience and resignation which had 
 been so severely inculcated. The charge of Amber soon 
 proved a source of dehght; the control which she had 
 over the household a source of gi'atifi cation (not as before, 
 for the pleasure of domineering, but for the sake of exer- 
 cising kindness and forbearance), and Mrs. Forster was 
 happy and resigned. 
 
 It may be surmised as strange, that during the period 
 which she remained in this capacity, she had never heard 
 mention made of her husband or her son ; but it must be 
 remembered that Nicholas had never called upon his bro- 
 ther, and that Newton was in the East Indies ; and, more- 
 over, that Mr. John Forster was just as little inclined to be 
 communicative as her husband. Indeed, he never came in 
 contact with his housekeeper, except to pay the bills, which 
 was regularly once a month, when he called her down after 
 diimer, and after the accounts were settled, offered her a 
 glass of wine, as a proof of his being satisfied with her 
 conduct. When Newton and his father arrived at the 
 chambers on the day before the discovery, and were invited 
 to dinner, his note of communication was as laconic as 
 usual. 
 
 '•' Mrs. Smith — I have invited two gentlemen to dine 
 with me to-day, six precisely. 
 
 '•' John Forsteb.* 
 " P. S. — Let the s^iare bed be ready." 
 X 2
 
 308 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 Mrs. Forster prepared every tiling as directed, and hav- 
 ing done her duties below, retired to her room, where she 
 usually sat with Amber. She did not therefore see the 
 parties when they entered ; and Amber, who had run down 
 to meet her protector, heard nothing during her short stay 
 in the room, to suppose that they were relatives of Mr. 
 John Forster. All that she had to communicate was, that 
 ' the parties were an elderly gentleman and a very handsome 
 young man. 
 
 Yet, even this simple communication caused the pulse 
 3f Mrs. Forster to accelerate. They might be her husband 
 and her son. It was the first time the spare bed had been 
 ordered. Reflection, however convinced her that her hopes 
 were strung upon too slight a thread; and, musing on 
 the improbability of not having ascertained during a year 
 the fact of her master having so near a relative — •more- 
 over, her son was not in existence, she sighed, and dis- 
 missed the idea as ridiculous. Before the gentlemen had 
 finished their wine, Amber was in bed, and Mrs. Forster 
 invariably sat at the side of it until her own hour of repose 
 had arrived. A certain indefinable curiosity still remained 
 lurking ; yet, as she could not gratify it without intrusion 
 (if the strangers were still up), she retired to bed, with the 
 reflection, that all her doubts would be relieved in the 
 morning ; and, after lying awake for some hours in a state 
 of suspense, she at last fell into that sound sleep, which is 
 usually produced by previous excitement. How she was 
 awakened from it, the reader has been already informed. 
 
 " It 's rather awkward, Newton," said Mr. John Forster, 
 about ten days afterwards. " I cannot do without your 
 mother, that 's certain : but what am I to do with your 
 lather ? Humph ! A^^ell, she must take charge of him as 
 well as Amber. She must teach him " 
 
 " Teach him what, sir ? " replied Newton, laughing 
 
 "Teach him what? Why to leave my watch and 
 spectacles alone. I dare not lay them down for a moment." 
 
 " I think we may teach him that, sir, if it is all that 
 you require." 
 
 '■' I ask no more : then he may go about the house like 
 a. tame rabbit. When will your ship be ready, boy ? "
 
 on, THE MEUCHANT SKRVICIC. 309 
 
 '•' In about a fortnight, sir. I called upon Captain 
 Oughton the day before yesterday, but he was not at home. 
 His steward gave me the information." 
 
 " What is the name of the ship ?" 
 
 " Tl'.e Windsor Castle, sir." 
 
 " Why all the India ships appear to be called Castles, 
 Your last ship was the Bombay Castle I think ? " 
 
 " Yes, sir : there are a great many of them so named : 
 — they really are floating castles." 
 
 " And full of ladies. You ' castle your queens, as they 
 do at chess.' Humph !" 
 
 A pun from Mr. John Forster was a rarity : he never had 
 been known to make one before : and Newton asserts that 
 he never heard him guilty of it afterwards. It deserves,, 
 therefore, bad as it was, to be recorded. 
 
 CHAPTER VII 
 
 but to stick to my route 
 
 '1 will be hard, if some novelty can't be struck out. 
 Is there no Algcrine, no Kamschatkan arrived ? 
 No plenipo-paclia, three tail'd and three wived ? 
 No Russian, whose dissonant, consonant name 
 Almost rattles to fragments the trumpet of lame ? 
 
 POSTSCRIPT. 
 
 By the bye, have you found any friend who can construe 
 
 That Latin account, t'other day, of a monster ? 
 
 If we can't get a Russian — and tliat story in Latin 
 
 Be not too improper, I think I '11 bring that in. MooRE. 
 
 A FEW mornings after this colloquy with his uncle, Newton 
 was very busy perambulating the streets of London, in 
 search of various requisites for his trip to India, when his 
 hand was seized before he had time to call to mind the 
 features of the party who shook it with such apparent 
 warmth. 
 
 '' My dear Mr. Forster, I am so delighted to see you, so 
 happy to hear of your gallant adventure with the French 
 squadron. Mrs. Plausible will be quite pleased at meet- 
 ing her old shipmate ; she often talks about you. 1 must 
 make sure of you," continued the doctor, drawing from his 
 pocket a large packet of cards, and inserting, at the top of 
 X 3
 
 SIO NEWTCN F0R9TEU ; 
 
 ane of them, Newton Forster's name with h^s pencil. 
 " This is an invitation to our conversazione of to-morrow 
 night, which you must do us tlie honour to accept. We 
 shall have all the scientific men of the day, and a very 
 pretty sprinkling of nobility, if not something more. How- 
 ever, you will see. Shall I tell Mrs. Plausible that you 
 will come, or will you disappoint her?" 
 
 " Why," replied Newton, " if I possibly can I will. 
 I presume the hour is not very precise ?" 
 
 " O no, from nine until two or three ; but if you wish 
 to see great people, ^bout eleven is the exac<^ time." 
 
 " Well, then," replied Newton, " the time which suits 
 great people also suits me. I hope Mrs. Plausible is 
 quite well." 
 
 '^' Quite well, I thank you. Good-bye;" and Dr. 
 Plausible hurried off so quickly, that Newton was induced 
 to look after him, to ascertain what could induce such pre- 
 cipitation. He perceived Dr. Plausible shaking hands 
 warmly with another gentleman, and after a few seconds 
 the packet of cards was again pulled out of his pocket, and 
 the pencil in requisition. It will be necessary to go back 
 a little, to acquaint the reader with what had occurred 
 since the acceptation of Dr. Plausible by Miss Tavistock, 
 when they were on board of the Bombay Castle On 
 their arrival at Madras, Miss Tavistock's early and 
 dearest friend, who resided in the up-country, had 
 commissioned an acquaintance to receive ]\Iiss Tavi- 
 stock until they could make arrangements for her journey to 
 the interior. By this female acquaintance Mis Tavistock 
 was kindly welcomed, and received into her house; but 
 Miss Tavistock's prospects having altered, so had all her 
 devoted attachments to the friend of her early years. She 
 wrote, announcing her intended change of condition, and 
 regretting that Dr. Plausible's affairs, requiring his imm.e- 
 diate presence in England, Avould prevent her having 
 the delight of embracing one, v;ho was so entwined round 
 her heart. The letter was nevertheless very cold, and 
 Miss Tavistock was very much abused by her dearest friend, 
 who, disappointed in her expectations, did not even conde- 
 scend an answer. In a week Miss Tavistock was united 
 to Di. Plausible, and in less than a fortnight afterwards
 
 OK, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. " 311 
 
 they were on their passage home. Dr. Plausible found 
 that his wife's report of her circumstances was correct, and 
 that now he had the means of keeping his carriage and of 
 seeing company in moderation. Shortly after their return 
 Dr. Plausible took the lease of a house in a betwixt and 
 between fashionable street, and not wishing to remain idle, 
 attempted to get into practice as an accoucheur ; for 
 although the fortune brought by his wife was considerable, 
 still, to keep his carriage in London, he was obliged '' to 
 sail nearer to the wind," in other points than he found 
 agreeable : moreover he was ambitious. A night-bell, 
 with " night-bell" in capital letters over it, that people 
 might be aware in the broad day that it was a night-bell, 
 which of course they could not read in the dark, was 
 attached to one side of the street door. It was as loud as 
 an alarum-bell, and when rung, was to be heard from No. 
 12 to No. 44, in the street where Dr. Plausible resided. 
 
 There are little secrets in all trades ; and one is, how to 
 obtain practice as a medical man, which whole mystery 
 consists in making people believe that you have a great 
 deal. When this is credited, practice immediately follows ; 
 and Dr. Plausible was aware of the fact. At first setting 
 off the carriage drew up to the door occasionally, and stood 
 there for some time, when the doctor made his appearance, 
 and stepped in. He then took a round of about three 
 hours through every fashionable part of the towai, sitting 
 weU forward, that every body might see him, apparently 
 examining his visiting-book. At times he would pull up 
 at some distinguished person's door, where were two or 
 three carriages before him, and getting out would 
 go in to the porter to ask some frivolous question. 
 Another ruse was, to hammer at some titled mansion, 
 and inquire for another titled person, by mistake. This 
 occupied the morning ; after which Doctor Plausible re- 
 turned home. During the first month the night-bell was 
 rung two or three times a week by the watchman, who was 
 fee'd for his trouble ; but after that period it increased its 
 duties, until it was in motion once, if not twice, every 
 night, and his disturbed neighbours wished Doctor Plau- 
 sible and his extensive practice at the devil. The carriage 
 X 4
 
 312 NEWTON porstek; 
 
 also was now rattled to the door in a Lurry, and Doctcr 
 Plausible was seen to enter with his case of instruments, 
 and drive off with rapidity, sometimes twice a day. In 
 the mean time Mrs. Plausible did her part, as she extended 
 her acquaintance with her neighbours. She constantly 
 railed against a medical husband ; declared that Doctor 
 Plausible was never at home, and it was impossible to say 
 at what hour they might dine. The tables also were 
 strewed with the cards of great and fashionable people, 
 obtained by Doctor Plausible from a celebrated engraver's 
 shop, by a douceur to the shopman, when the master was 
 absent. At last Doctor Plausible's instruments were used 
 in good earnest ; and, although not known or even heard 
 of in the fashionable world, he was sent for by the would- 
 be-fashionables, because they imagined that he was em- 
 ployed by their betters. Now it so happened that in the 
 same street there lived another medical man, almost a pro- 
 totype of Doctor Plausible, only not quite so well off in 
 the world. His name was Doctor Feasible. His practice 
 was not extensive, and he Avas incumbered with a wife ancl 
 large family. He also very naturally wished to extend his 
 practice and his reputation ; and, after many fruitless at- 
 tempts, he at last hit upon a scheme which he thought 
 promised to be successful. 
 
 " ]\Iy dear," said he, one morning to his wife, " I am 
 thinking of getting up a conversazione." 
 
 " A conversazione, my love ! — - why, is not that a very 
 expensive affair t " 
 
 " Why, not very. But if it brings me practice, it will 
 be money well laid out." 
 
 " Yes, my love, if it does, and if we had the money to 
 lay out." 
 
 " Something must be done. I have hardly a patient 
 left. I have an idea that it will succeed. Go, my dear, 
 and make up this prescription, and let the hoy take it to 
 Mrs. Bluestone's. I wish I had a couple of dozen of 
 patients like her. I write her prescriptions, take my fee, 
 and then, that I may be sure that it is properly made up, 
 I volunteer to take it to the chemist's myself." 
 
 " Pray, what is the complaint of Mrs. Bluestonc, my 
 love.^"
 
 OU, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 313 
 
 "Nothing; she over-eats herself — that's all. Aber- 
 •iiethy would cure her in twenty-four hours." 
 
 " Well, but, my love, about this conversazione ? " 
 
 " Go, and make up the prescription, my dear, and we'll 
 talk the matter over afterwards." 
 
 They did so. A list of the people they were acquainted 
 with was drawn out, the expense calculated, and the atTair 
 settled. 
 
 The first point to be considered was the size of the 
 cards. 
 
 " These, my love," said Mrs. F'easible, who came in 
 from a long walk with her bonnet still on, " these are 
 three shillings and sixpence a hundred ; and these, which 
 are a size larger, are four-and-sixpence. Which do you 
 think we ought to have ? " 
 
 " Why, really, my dear, when one sends out so many, 
 
 I do not see why we should incur imnecessary expense. 
 The three-and-sixpenny ones are quite large enough." 
 
 " And the engraving will be fourteen shillings." 
 " Well, that will only be a first expense. Conversa- 
 zione, in old English, of course." 
 
 "And here, my love, are the ribbons for the maid's 
 caps and sashes ; I bought them at ^V'arterloo House, very 
 cheap, and a very pretty candle-light colour. 
 " Did you speak to them about 'their gowns .^" 
 " Yes, my love ; Sally and Peggy have each a wliite 
 gown, Betty I can lend one of my own." 
 
 The difference between a conversazione and a rout is 
 simply this : — in the former you are expected to talk or 
 listen, but to be too ethereal to eat. In the latter, to be 
 squeezed in a crowd, and eat ic6s, &c. to cool yourself. A 
 conversazione has, therefore, a great advantage over the 
 latter, as far as the pocket is concerned, it being much 
 cheaper to procure food for the mind than food for the body. 
 
 I I woidd appear that tea has been as completely establishetl 
 the beverage of modern scientific men, as nectar was 
 formerly that of the gods. The Athenceum gives tea ; and 
 
 I observed in a late newspaper, that Lord G- has pro- 
 
 raisert tea to the Geograjihical Society. Had his lordship 
 been aware that there was a beverage invented on board a
 
 314 NEWTON FORSTKR ; 
 
 ship much more appropriate to the science over which he ; 
 presides than tea, I feel convinced he would have sub- 
 stituted it immediately ; and I therefore take this oppor- 
 tunity of informing him that sailors have long made use 
 of a compound which actually goes by the name of geo~ 
 graffy, which is only a trifling corruption of the name of 
 the science, arising from their laying the accent on the 
 penultimate^ I will now give his lordship the receipt^ 
 which is most simple. 
 
 Take a tin-pot, go to the scuttle-butt (having obtained 
 permission from the quarter-deck), and draw off about 
 half a pint of very offensive smelling water. To this add 
 a gili of vinegar and a ship's biscuit broke up into small 
 pieces. Stir it well up with the fore-finger ; and then 
 with the fore-finger and thumb you may pull out the 
 pieces of biscuit, and eat them as fast as you please, drink- 
 ing the liquor to wash all down. 
 
 Now this would be the very composition to hand round 
 to the Geogi-aphical Society. It is not christened geo- 
 graphy without a reason ; the vinegar and water repre- 
 senting the green sea, and the pieces of biscuit floating in 
 it, the continents and islands which are washed by it. 
 
 Now, my lord, do not you thank me for my communi-' 
 cation } 
 
 But we must return to the conversazione of Doctor and 
 Mrs. Feasible 
 
 The company arrived. There was rap after rap. The 
 whole street was astonished with the noise of the wheels and 
 the rattling of the iron steps of the hackney-coaches. 
 Doctor Feasible had procured some portfohos of prints : 
 some Indian idols from a' shop in Wardour Street, duly 
 labelled and christened, and several other odds and ends, 
 1o create matter of conversation. The company consisted 
 cf several medical gentlemen and their wives, the great 
 Mr. B — , and the facetious Mr. C — . There were ten or . 
 twelve authors, or gentlemen suspected of authorship, 
 fourteen or fifteen chemists, all scientific of course, one 
 culonel, half-a-dozen captains, and, to crown all, a city 
 knight and his lady, besides their general acquaintance, 
 unscientific and unprofessional. For a beginning this was
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. SI 5 
 
 very well ; and the company departed very liungry, but 
 highly delighted with their evening's entertainment. 
 
 " What can all that noise be about ? " said Mrs. Plau- 
 sible to her husband, who was sitting with her in the 
 drawing-room, reading the Lancet, while she knotted, or 
 did not. 
 
 " I am sure I cannot tell, Mrs. Plausible." 
 
 " There, again ! I'm sure if I have heard one, I have 
 heard thirty raps at a door within this quarter of an hour. 
 I 'm determined I will know what it is," continued Mrs. 
 Plausible, getting up and ringing the bell. 
 
 " Thomas, do you know what all that noise is about ? " 
 said Mrs. Plausible, when the servant answered th6 bell. 
 
 "■'No, ma'am, I does'nt." 
 
 "■Well, then, go and see.'' 
 
 " Yes, ma'am." 
 
 The impatience of Mrs. Plausible, during the absence 
 of I'homas, increased with the repetition of the knocks. 
 
 "Well, Thomas."*" said she, as the footman entered. 
 
 " If you please, ma'am, Mr. Feasible has got a con- 
 wersation — that's all." 
 
 " Got a what ? " 
 
 " A conversazione he means, my dear. It's very s':range 
 that Mr- Feasible should pretend to give such a thing !" 
 
 " 1 think so too," replied the lady. "■ He keeps no car- 
 riage. What can be his inducement !" 
 
 " I perceive," replied Dr. Plausible, " he wants to get 
 practice. Depend upon it that 's his plan. A sprat to 
 catch a mackarel !" 
 
 Husband and wife were again silent, and resumed their 
 occupations ; but the Lancet Avas not read, and the knot- 
 ting was all in knots, for they were both in a brown 
 study. At last Mrs. Plausible commenced — 
 
 " I really do not see, my dear, %vhy we should not give 
 a conversazione as well as Dr. Feasible ? " 
 
 " I was just thinking that we could give them much 
 better ; our acquaintance now is very numerous." 
 
 " And very respectable," replied the lady ; " it will 
 make us more known in the world."
 
 31 6 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 '' And add to my practice. I 'II soon beat Doctor 
 Feasible out of the field ! '' 
 
 The result of this conversation was a conversazioney 
 which certainly was on a much better scale, and better at- 
 tended than the one collected by Doctor Feasible. Doctor 
 Plausible had pumped a mutual acquaintance as to the 
 merits of his rival, and had set to work with great dili- 
 gence. 
 
 He ordered his carriage, and for two or three days pre- 
 vious to the one fixed, went round to all his friends, who 
 had curiosities, foreign, indigenous, or continental, admired 
 them, talked learnedly, expressed a wish to exhibit them 
 to several gentlemen of talent at his next conversazione, 
 nulled out a card for the party, and succeeded in return- 
 ing home with his carriage stuffed with curiosities and 
 monstrosities. 
 
 Negus and cherry-water were added to tea in the re- 
 freshment-room ; and the conversazione of Doctor Plau- 
 sible was pronounced by those who had been invited to 
 both, infinitely superior to that of Doctor Feasible. A 
 good-natured friend called upon Doctor and Mrs. Feasible 
 with the news. They pretended indifference, as they bit 
 their lips to conceal their vexation. As soon as he took 
 his leave — ■ 
 
 "^^V'^ell, my dear," said INIrs. Feasible, " what do you 
 think of this ? Very unhandsome on the part of Doctor 
 Plausible ! I was told this morning that several of our 
 acquaintances liave expressed a wish to be introduced to 
 him." 
 
 " We must not give up the point, my love. Doctor 
 Plausible may make a splash once ; but I suspect that his 
 horses eat him out of house and home, and interfere very 
 much with the butcher's bills. If so, we who keep no 
 carriage can afford it better. But it's very annoying, as 
 there will be an increase of expense." 
 
 " Very annoying, indeed !" replied the lady. "^ Look 
 at his card, my dear, it is nearly twice as large as ours. I 
 begged it of ]\Ir. Tomkins, on purpose to compare it." 
 
 " Well thcHj my dear, we must order others, and mind
 
 OR, THE MKUCHANT SEKVICE. ol7 
 
 that they measure an inch more than his. It shall cost 
 him something before we have done^ I'm determined." 
 
 " You heard what Mr. Sraithson said ? They gave 
 negus and cherry-water." 
 
 " We must do the same. I 've a great mind to give ices." 
 
 " Oh ! my love, remember the expense.'' 
 
 <f Very true; but we can ice our negus and cherry- 
 water. Rough ice is only two-pence a pound, I believe.'* 
 
 " Well, that will be an improvement." 
 
 '• And there shall be more, or I '11 be in the Bench," 
 replied the Doctor in liis wrath. 
 
 The next conversazione, for which cards were issued by 
 Doctor Feasible, was on a superior scale. There Avas a 
 considerable increase of company. He had persuaded a 
 country baronet ; secured the patronage of two ladies of 
 rank (with a slight blot -on their escutcheons), and col- 
 lected, amongst others, a French count (or adventurer), a 
 baron with mustachios, two German students in their cos- 
 tumes and long hair, and an actress of some reputation. 
 He had also procured the head of a New Zealand chief ; 
 some red snow, or rather red water (for it was melted), 
 brought home by Captain Ross ; a piece of granite from 
 the Croker mountains ; a kitten in spirits, with two heads 
 and twelve legs, and half-a-dozen abortions of the foathereil 
 or creeping tribes. Every tiling went off well. The two 
 last fees he had received were sacrificed to have the party 
 announced in the Morning Post, and Doctor Fcasible's 
 triumph was complete. 
 
 But it was not to last long. In ten days Dr. Plau- 
 sible's cards were again issued, larger than Doctor Feasible's, 
 and with a handsome embossed border of lilies and roses. 
 Male attendants, tea and coffee, ices and liqueurs were pre- 
 pared ; and Dr. Feasible's heart failed him, when he wit- 
 nessed the ingress and egress of the pastrycooks, with their 
 boxes on their heads. Among his company he had already 
 mustered up five celebrated blues ; four ladies of quality, of 
 better reputation than Dr. Feasible's ; seven or eight ba- 
 ronets and knights ; a bishop of Fernando Po ; three or four 
 general officers ; and a dozen French and German visitoi's to 
 the country, who had not only titles, but wore orders at their
 
 518 NEWTON FOllSTEU ; 
 
 button-lioles. Thus far had he advanced when he met 
 Newton Forster, and added him to the list of the invited. 
 In about two hours afterwards Dr. Plausible returned 
 home to his wife, radiant with smiles. 
 
 " My dear, who do you think has promised to come to- 
 morrow night ? " 
 
 " Who, my love? " 
 
 " Prince Fizzybelli ! 
 
 "You don't say so.-*" screamed the lady with her 
 delight. 
 
 " Yes, most faithfully promised." 
 
 " What will the Feasibles say C " cried the lady ; — 
 " but — is he a real prince }" 
 
 " A real prince ! O yes, indeed is he ! well known in 
 Tartary.*' 
 
 " Well, Dr. Plausible, 1 have good news for you. Here 
 
 is a note from Mr. H , in answer to yours, in which 
 
 he promises you the loan of the wax figure from Germany, 
 of a female in the first stage of par — partu — I can't 
 make out the word." 
 
 " Excellent ! most excellent ! " cried the doctor, rubbing 
 his hands ; '' now we shall do." 
 
 Newton, who had some curiosity to see a conversazione, 
 which to him Avas a terra incognita, did not fail to go at 
 the appointed hour. He was ushered up stairs into the 
 drawing-room, at the door of which he was received by 
 Mrs. Plausible, in blue and silver. The rooms not being 
 very large, were extremely crowded, and Newton at one 
 moment found himself jammed against some curiosity, and 
 at another treading on the toes or heels of people who ac- 
 cepted his apologies, looking daggers ; and with a snarUng, 
 don't mention it." 
 
 But a thundering knock at the door was followed by the 
 announcement of his Highness Prince Fizzybelli — Prince 
 Fizzybelli at the door — Prince Fizzybelli coming up — 
 Prince Fizzybelli (enters). 
 
 Had it been permitted. Dr. Plausible would have re- 
 ceived his guest with a flourish of trumpets, as great men 
 are upon the stage, without which it is impossible ncw~a- 
 days to know a great rnan from a little one. However, the
 
 OR, THE JIERCIIANT SERVICE. 310 
 
 hired attendants did their duty, and the name of Fizzybelli 
 was fizzed about the room in every direction. Dr. Plausible 
 
 trod on the corns of old Lady G. , upset Miss Periwinkle, 
 
 iind nearly knocked down a French savant, in his struggle 
 to obtain the door to receive his honoured guest, who made 
 a bow, looked at the crowd — looked at the chandelier — 
 looket! at his watch, and looked very tired in the course of 
 five minutes, when Prince FizzybelU ordered his carriage, 
 and was off. 
 
 Newton, who had examined several very strange tbings, 
 which occupied the tables about the room, at last made his 
 way to the ante-room, where the crowd was much more 
 dense than elsewhere. Taking it for granted that there 
 Avas something interesting to be seen, he persevered until 
 he had forced his way to the centre, when what was his 
 astonishment when he beheld under a long glass-case a 
 figure of a woman modelled in wax, of exact and certainly 
 of beautiful proportion ! It was as large as life, and in a 
 state of perfect nudity. The face lifted up, and discovered 
 th§ muscles beneath : in fact, every part of the image could 
 be removed, and presented to the curious, every part of the 
 human frame, modelled exact, and coloured. Newton was 
 indeed astonished : he had witnessed several articles in the 
 other room, Avhich he had considered more fitted for the 
 museum of an institution than a drawing-room ; but this 
 was indeed a novelty ; and when, to crown all, he wit- 
 nessed certain little demireps of science, who fancied that 
 not to be ashamed was now as much a proof of knowledge, 
 as in our first parents it was of innocence, and who eyed 
 the figure without turning away from it or blushing, he 
 quitted the room with disgust, and returned home quite 
 satisfied with one conversazione. 
 
 I am not partial to blues : generally speaking, ladies do 
 not take up science until they find that the men will not 
 take up them ; and a remarkably clever woman by repu- 
 tation is too often a remarkably unpleasant, or a remarkably 
 ugly one. But there are exceptions ; exceptions that a 
 nation may be proud of — women who can fulfil their du- 
 ties to their husbands and their children, to their God and 
 to their neighbour, although endowed with minds more
 
 320 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 powerful tlian allotted to one man in tens of thousandE. 
 These are heavenly blues ; and, among the few, no one 
 
 shines more pre-eminent than my dear Mrs. S e. 
 
 However, whether Newton was satisfied or not^ this 
 conversazione was a finisher to Dr. Feasible, who re- 
 eigned the contest. Dr. Plausible not only carried away 
 tlie palm — but, what was still worse, he carried off the 
 *' practice ! " 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 Their only labour is to kill the time; 
 
 And labour dire it is, and weary woe. 
 They sit — they lounge — turn o'er some idle rhyme ; 
 
 Then rising sudden — to the glass they go. 
 
 Or saunter forth with loitering step and slow. 
 
 Castle of Indolence. 
 
 Captain Oughton who commanded the Windsor Castle 
 was an original. His figure was short and thickset, his 
 face broad, and deeply pitted with the small-pox, his nose 
 an apology for a nose, being a small tubercle arising mid- 
 way between his eyes and mouth, the former of which 
 were small, the latter wide, and displaying a magnificent 
 row of white teeth. On the whole, it was impossible to 
 look in his face without being immediately struck with his 
 likeness to a bull-dog. His temperament and his pursuits 
 were also analogous ; he was a great pugilist, knew the 
 merits of every man in the ring, and the precise date and 
 circumstances attending every battle which had been fought 
 for the previous thirty years. His conversation was at all 
 times interlarded with the slang terms appropriated to the 
 science, to which he was so devoted. In other points he 
 was a brave and trust-worthy officer, although he valued 
 the practical above the theoretical branches of his pro- 
 fession, and was better pleased Avhen superintending the 
 mousing of a stay or the strapping of a block, than when 
 " flooring" the sun, as he termed it, to ascertain the lati- 
 tude, or " breaking his noddle against the old Avoman's," 
 in taking a lunar observation. Newton had been strongly
 
 OR, THE MEltCHANT SEIJVICE. 321 
 
 recommended to him, and Captain Oughton extended his 
 hand as to an old acquaintance, when they met on the 
 quarter-deck. Before they had taken a dozen turns up 
 and down, Captain Oughton inquired if Newton could 
 handle the mauleys ; and on being answered in the nega 
 live, volunteered his instruction during their passage out. 
 
 " You heard the end of it, I suppose r*" said Captain 
 Oughton, in continuance. 
 
 " The end of what, sir ? " 
 
 "What! why, the fight. Spring beat. I've cleared 
 three hundred by him. " 
 
 " Then, sir, I am very glad that Spring Deat," replied 
 Newton, 
 
 " I'll back him against a stone heavier any day in the 
 week. I've got ihe newspaper in the cabin, with the fight 
 — forty-seven rounds ; but we can't read it now ; we must 
 see after these soldiers and their traps. Look at them," 
 continued Captain Oughton, turning to a party of the 
 troops ordered for the passage, who were standing on the 
 gangway and booms ; " every man Jack, with his tin pot 
 in his hand, and his great-coat on. Twig the drum-boy, 
 he has turned his coat — do you see, with the lining out- 
 wards to keep it clean. By Jove, that's a wtnnkle!" 
 
 " How many officers do you expect, Captain Oughton." 
 
 " I hardly know, they make such alterations in their ar- 
 rangements ; five or six, I believe. The boat went on 
 shore for them at nine o'clock. They have sent her back, 
 with their compliments, seven times already, full of lug- 
 gage. There's one lieutenant, I forget his name, whose 
 chests alone would fill up the main-deck. There's six 
 under the half-deck," said Captain Oughton, pointing to 
 them. 
 
 " Lieutenant Winterbottom," observed Newton, reading 
 the name. 
 
 " I wish to Heaven that he had remained the winter, or 
 that his chests were all to tlve bottom ! I don't know where 
 the devil we are to stow them. O ! here they come ! 
 Boatswain's mate, 'tend the side there." 
 
 In a minute or thereabouts, the military gentlemen made 
 their appearance one by one on the quarter-deck, scru- 
 
 Y
 
 322 NEWTON FORSTER j 
 
 tinising their gloves as they bade adieu to the side-ropes, 
 to ascertain if they had in any degree been defiled by the 
 adhesive properties of the pitch and tar. 
 
 Captain Oughton advanced to receive them. " Wel- 
 come, gentlemen/' said he, " welcome on board. We 
 trip our anchor in half an hour. I am afraid that I have 
 not the pleasure of knowing your names, and must request 
 the honour of being introduced." 
 
 '' Major Clavering, sir," said the major, a tall handsome 
 man, gracefully taking off his hat; "^ the officers who ac- 
 company are (waving his hand towards them in succession) 
 Lieutenant Winterbottom." 
 
 Lieutenant Winterbottom bowed. 
 
 " I 've had the pleasure of reading Lieutenant Winter- 
 bottom's name several times this forenoon," observed Cap- 
 tain Oughton, as he returned tl>e salute. 
 
 " You refer to my luggage, I'm afraid. Captain 
 Oughton .'' " 
 
 '^' Why, if I must say it, I certainly think you have 
 enough for a general." 
 
 " I can only reply, that I wish my rank were equal to 
 my luggage : but it is a general complaint every time I 
 have the misfortune to embark. I trust. Captain Oughton, 
 it will be the only one you will have to make of me during 
 the passage." 
 
 Major Clavering, who had waited during this dialogue, 
 continued — 
 
 " Captain Majoribanks, whom T ought to apologise to 
 for not having introduced first." 
 
 " Not at all, major : you just heard the brevet rank 
 which Winterbottom's baggage has prociu-ed him." 
 
 " Not the first time a man has obtained rank through 
 his ' baggage,' " observed one of the officers, sotto voce. 
 
 <■' Mr. Ansell, Mr. Petres, Mr. Irving." 
 
 The necessary bows were exchanged, and Mr. Williams, 
 the first-mate, desired to show the oflScers to their re- 
 spective accommodations, when he would be able to ascer- 
 tain what part of their luggage was required, and be enabled 
 to strike the remainder down into the after-hold. 
 
 As the officers followed the first-mate down the com
 
 OR, THE JJEllCUANT SEUVICE. 323 
 
 panioii-ladder, Captain Oughton looked at Mr. Ansell;, and 
 observed to Newton, " Tliat fellow would i)eel well." 
 
 The AFindsor Castle sailed, and in a few days was clear 
 of the channel. Newton, whose thoughts were of Isabel 
 Revel, felt not that regret at quitting the country, usually 
 attached to those who leave all dear to them behind. He 
 knew that it was by following up his profession alone that 
 he ever could have a chance of obtaining her ; and this 
 recollection, with the hopes of again beholding the object 
 of his affections, lightened his heart to joy, as the ship 
 scudded across the Bay of Biscay, before a N. E. gale. 
 That he had little chance at present of possessing her, he 
 knew • but hope leads us on, and no one more than the 
 youth who is in love. 
 
 The table of Captain Oughton was liberally supplied, 
 and the officers embarked proved (as they almost invariably 
 do) to be pleasant gentlemanlike companions. The boxing- 
 gloves were soon produced by Captain Oughton, who soon 
 ascertained that in the officer who " would peel so well," 
 he had found his match. The mornings were passed away 
 in sparring, fencing, reading, walking the deck, or lolling 
 on the hen-coops upon the poop. The announcement of 
 the dinner-hour was a signal for rejoicing ; and they re- 
 mained late at the table, doing ample justice to the cap- 
 tain's excellent claret. The evening was finished with 
 cards, cigars, and brandy pawnee. Thus passed the time 
 away for the first three weeks of the passage, during Avhich 
 period all parties had become upon intimate terms. 
 
 But the voyage is in itself most tedious, and more tedious 
 to those who not only have no duty to perform, but have 
 few resources. As soon as the younger officers thought 
 they m ght take a liberty, they examined the hen-coops, 
 and selecting the most promising looking cocks, trimmed 
 them for fighting ; chose between themselves as their own 
 property those which they most approved of, and for some 
 days fed and sparred them to get them into wind, and as- 
 certain the proper way in which they should be spurred. 
 In the mean time, two pair of spurs were by their directions 
 clandestinely made by the armourer of the ship, and when 
 ready, they took- advantage of the time when Captaii: 
 Y 2
 
 324 NEWTON FORSTER J 
 
 Oughton Avas every day employed with the ship's reckon- 
 ing, and the poulterer was at his dinner (viz. from twelve 
 to one), to fight a main. The cocks which were killed in 
 these combats were returned to the hen-coops, and supposed 
 by the poulterer, who very often had a glass of grog, to 
 have quarrelled within the bars. 
 
 " Steward." said Captain Oughton, '• why the devil do 
 you give us so many fowls for dinner ? the stock will 
 never last out the voyage : two roast fowls, two boiled 
 fowls, curried fowl, and chicken pie ! What can you be 
 thinking of?" 
 
 " I spoke to the poulterer on the subject, sir : he con- 
 stantly brings me down fowls, and he tells me that they 
 kill each other fighting. " 
 
 " Fighting ! never heard of fowls fighting in a co6p 
 before. They must be all game fowls." 
 
 " That they are, most of them," said Mr. Petres ; I 
 have often seen them fighting when I have been on the 
 poop. " 
 
 " So have I," continued Ansell ? I have seen worse 
 cocks in the pit." 
 
 " Well it's very odd ; I never lost a cock this way in 
 all my voyages. Send tlie poulterer here ; 1 must inquire 
 about it." 
 
 " Yes, sir," replied the steward ; and he quitted the 
 in. 
 With the exception of tlie major, who knew nothing of 
 the circumstances, the officers thought it advisable to de- 
 camp, that they might not be present when the denoue- 
 ment took place. The poulterer made his appearance, was 
 interrogated, and obliged in his own defence to criminate 
 the parties, corroborating his assertions by producing a pair 
 of spurs found upon a cock, which had been killed, and 
 thrown behind the coop in a hurry at the appearance of 
 Captain Oughton on deck. 
 
 " I am sorry that my officers should have taken such a 
 liberty," observed the major, gravely. 
 
 " O never mind, major, only allow me to be even with 
 them ; I shouldn't have minded if I had seen the fighting. 
 I tiiiuk you said that you would like to exercise your men 
 a little this afteriiODn .'' "
 
 on, THE MKRCHANT SERVICE. 325 
 
 '' 1 did; that is, if not inconvenient." 
 
 ■' Not in the least, major ; the quarter-deck is at your 
 service. I presume you do not superintend yourself ? " 
 
 " Yes, I generally do." 
 
 " Well, don't this time, but let all the officers ; and 
 then 1 shall be able to play them a little trick that will 
 make us all square." 
 
 Major Clavering consented. The officers were ordered 
 up to drill their men. Captain Majoribanks and Mr. Irving 
 had one party at the platoon exercise. 
 
 "^ Third man, your hand a little higher on the barrel of 
 your musket. As you were ; support — the word support 
 is only a caution — arms, — too — too. " 
 
 " Two and two make four," observed one of the seamen. 
 
 Lieutenant Winterbottom had another party on the lee- 
 side of the quarter-deck. " Ram down — cartridge. — No. 
 1 2, slope your musket a little more — too — too — only 
 two taps at the bottom of the barrel. Ileturn — ramrods. 
 No. 4, why don't you draw up the heel of your riglit kg 
 level with the other ? Recollect now, when you shoulder 
 arms, to throw your muskets up smartly. — Shoulder — as 
 you were — the word shoulder is only a caution ; sliouldcr 
 
 — arms. Dress up a little No. S, and don't stick your 
 stomach out in that way." 
 
 Mr. Anstell and Mr. Petres had two fatigue parties on 
 the poop, without muskets. " To the right — face — to 
 the right face. To the right — face — to the right — 
 face. " 
 
 " It's a dead calm with them soldiers — head round tlie 
 compass," said one of the seamen to another. 
 
 " To the left — face — quick march, to the left — turn 
 
 — to the right — turn — close files — mark time — riglit 
 
 — left — right — left — forward. " 
 
 *■' Them ere chaps legs all going together put one in 
 mind of a centipee — don't they, Tom } " 
 
 " Yes, but they don't get on quite so fast. Holloh, 
 what pipe's that .'' — ' All hands, air bedding.' " 
 
 The ship was hauled close to the wind, which was light. 
 At the pipe, the sailors below ran up the hatchway, and 
 those on deck threw down their work. In a minute every 
 V 3
 
 32b NEWrON FOKoTliR ; 
 
 hammock was out of the netting, and every seaman dusv 
 at unlashing. 
 
 " Now, major, we liad better go into the cabin," said 
 Captain Oughton, laugliing. " I shall, I can assure you." 
 
 Beds and blankets which are not aired or shook more 
 than once a month, are ant to be very full of what is termed 
 ^M^and blanket hairs, and they liave a close smell, by no 
 means agreeable. The sailors, who had an idea that the 
 order had been given inconsiderately, were quite delighted, 
 and commenced shaking their blankets on the forecastle 
 and weather gangway, raising a cloud, which the wind 
 carried aft upon the parties exercising upon the quarter- 
 deck. 
 
 " What the devil is all this ? " cried Captain Majori- 
 banks, looking forward with dismay. '^ Order — arms." 
 
 Lieutenant Winterbottom and half of his party were 
 now seized with a fit of coughing. " Confound it ! — 
 shut — pans — handle — upon my soul I'm choked.'' 
 
 " This is most excessively disagreeable," observed ]\Ir. 
 Petres ; ' I made up my mind to be tarred when I came 
 on board, but I had no idea that we should be feathered." 
 
 " Support — d n it, there's no supporting this!" 
 
 cried Captain Majoribanks. " Where's Major Clavering .^ 
 I'll ask to dismiss the men.'' 
 
 " They are dismissing a great many little men, forward, 
 I suspect," said the first-mate, laughing. " I cannot ima- 
 gine what induced Captain Oughton to give the order : we 
 never shake bedding except when the ship's before the 
 wind." 
 
 This last very consoling remark made it worse than all ; 
 the officers were in an agony. There was not one of them 
 who would not have stood the chance of a volley from a 
 French regiment rather than what they considered that 
 they Avere exposed to. But without Major Clavering's 
 permission they covdd not dismiss their men. Captain Ma- 
 joribanks hastened to the cabin, to explain their very un- 
 pleasant situation, and received the major's permission to 
 defer the exercise. 
 
 " Well, gentlemen," said Captain Oughton, " what is 
 the matter .'' "
 
 oil, TJIH MlillCIlANT SKKVICK ."27 
 
 *' The matter!" replied Ansell. "Why, my flesh 
 creeps all over rae. Of all the thoughtless acts, Captain 
 Oughton, it really heats ' 
 
 " Cock-fighting," interrupted the captain, with a loud 
 laugh. " Now we are quits. " 
 
 The officers hastened below to wash and change their 
 ('ress after this very annoying retaliation on the part of 
 Captain Oughton. When they felt themselves again clean 
 and comfortable, their good-humour returned, although 
 they voted their captain not to be very refined in his ideas^ 
 and agreed with him that his practical joke beat "^ cock- 
 fighting." 
 
 1 believe there are no classes of people who embark with 
 more regret, or quit a ship with more pleasure, than mili- 
 tary men. Nor is it to be wondered at^ if we consider the 
 antithesis which is presented to their usual mode of life. 
 Few military men are studious, or inclined to reading, 
 which is almost the only resource which is to be found 
 against the tedium of long confinement and daily mo- 
 notony. I do not say this reproachfully, as I consider it 
 arises from the peculiarity of their profession, and must be 
 considered to be more their misfortune than their fault. 
 They enter upon a military life just after they have left 
 school, the very period at which, from previous and forced 
 application, they have been surfeited with hooks usque ad 
 nauseam. The parade, dress, the attention paid to them, 
 which demands civilities in return ; society, and the pre- 
 ference shown by the fair sex ; their happy and well-con- 
 ducted mess ; the collecting together of so many young 
 men, with all their varied plans of amusement, into which 
 the others are easily persuaded to enter, with just suffi- 
 cient duty on guard, or otherwise, not to make the. duty 
 irksome ; all delight too much at first, and, eventually 
 from habit, too much occupy their minds, to afford time 
 for study. 
 
 In making this observation, I must be considered to 
 speak generally. There are many studious^ many well- 
 stored minds, many men of brilliant talents, who have im- 
 proved the gift of nature by constant study and reflection, 
 and whose conduct »just be considered as the more meri- 
 Y 4
 
 39S NEWTOM FORSTKR ; 
 
 tonous, from having resisted or overcome the strong tempt, 
 ation to do otherwise, which is offered by their profession. 
 
 " I wish," said Irving, who was stretched out his full 
 length on one of the coops abaft, with the front of his cap 
 drawn over his eyes — "I wish this cursed voyage was at 
 an end. Every day the same thing ; no variety — no 
 amusement; — curry for breakfast- — brandy pawnee as a 
 finish. I really begin to detest the sight of a cigar or a 
 pack of cards." 
 
 " Very true," replied Ansell, who was stretched upon an 
 adjacent coop in all the listlessness of idleness personified 
 — " very true, Irving ; I begin to think it worse than 
 being quartered in a country town inhabited by nobodies, 
 where one has nothing to do but to loll and spit over the 
 bridge all day, till the bugle sounds for dinner. 
 
 " Oh ! that was infinitely better ; at least, you could 
 walk away when you were tired, or exchange a word or 
 two with a girl as she passed over it, on her way to 
 market." 
 
 Why don 't you take a book, Irving ? " observed the 
 najor, laying down the one with which he had been oc- 
 cupied to join the conversation. 
 
 " A book, major ? " Oh, I 've read until I am tired." 
 
 " What have you read since you embarked .'' " inquired 
 his senior. 
 
 'f Let me see — Ansell, what have I read .''" 
 
 *' Read ! — nothing at all — you know that." 
 
 " Well, perhaps so ; we have no mess-newspapers 
 here : the fact is, major, I am not very partial to reading 
 — • I am not in the habit of it. When on shore I have too 
 much to do ; but I mean to read by-and-bye." 
 
 '^ And pray, when may that by-and-bye be supposed fo 
 arrive ? " 
 
 " Oh ! some day when I 'm wounded or taken prisoner, 
 and cannot do any thing else ; then I shall read a good 
 deal. Here 's Captain Oughton — Captain Oughton, do 
 you read much ? "' 
 
 " Yes, Mr. Irving, I read a great deal." 
 * Pray, may I take the liberty to ask you what you 
 read ? "
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SKRVIO*;. 3^9 
 
 *' What I read ! ^Vhy, I read Ilorsburgh's Directory : 
 — and I read — I read all the fights." 
 
 " I think," observed Ansell, " that if a man gets through 
 the newspaper and the novels of the day, he does a great 
 deal." 
 
 " He reads a great deal, I grant you," replied the 
 major ; " but of what value is that description of 
 reading ? " 
 
 " Tliere, major/' replied Ansell, " we are at issue. I 
 consider a knowledge of the passing events of the day, and 
 a recollection of the facts which have occurred during the 
 lasi twenty years, to be more valuable than all the ancient 
 records in existence. Who talks of Ca?sar or Xenophon 
 now-a-days, except some Cambridge or Oxford prig ? and 
 of what value is that knowledge in society ? The escape 
 of a modern pickpocket will afford more matter of conver- 
 sation than the famous retreat of the ten thousand. 
 
 "To be sure," replied Captain Oughton; "and a fair 
 stand-up fight between Humphreys and Mendoza create 
 
 more interest than the famous battles of , I'm sure 1 
 
 forget." 
 
 " Of Marathon and Thermopylje ; they will do," 
 added Ansell. 
 
 " I grant," replied the major, *' that it is not only un- 
 necessary, but conceited in those who would show their 
 reading ; but this does not disprove the advantages which 
 are obtained. The mind well fed becomes eidarged : and 
 if 1 may use a simile, in the same way as your horse 
 proves his good condition by his appearance, without 
 ascertaining the precise quantity of oats which has been 
 given him ; so the mind shows by its general vigour and 
 power of demonstration, that it has been well supplied with 
 " hard food.' " 
 
 " Very hard food indeed,'' replied Captain Oughton ; 
 " nuts that I never could crack when I was at school, and 
 don't mean to break my teeth with now. I agree with 
 Mr. Ansell, ' that sufficient for the day is the knowledge 
 thereof.' " 
 
 " Well, as the tree of knowledge was the tree of evil, 
 perhaps that is the correct reading," replied Ansell, laugh-
 
 330 
 
 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 ing; '' Captain Oughton, you are a very sensible man ; I 
 hope we shall see you often at our mess, when we're again 
 on shore." 
 
 " You may say so now," replied Captain Oughton, 
 bluntly, " and so have many more said the same thing to 
 me ; but you soldiers have cursed short memories in that 
 way after you have landed." 
 
 "^ I trust, Captain Oughton," replied Major Clavering, 
 *' that you will not have to make that accusation general." 
 
 " Oh ! never mind, major, I never am affronted ; the 
 offer is made in kindness, and at the time sincere ; but 
 when people get on shore) and are so occupied with their 
 own amusements, it is not to be wondered if they are 
 thoughtless and forget. At one time, it did annoy me, I 
 confess ; for Avhen I say I should be happy to see a man, 
 I mean it ; and if I did not mean it, I never would ask 
 him. I thought that other people did the same ; but I 
 have lived long enough to discover that a ' general invita- 
 tion,,' means, '^ don't. come at all.'" 
 
 '' Then I most certainly shall not say one word on the 
 subject at present," replied the major. " How many bells 
 was that ? " 
 
 " Six ; dinner Avill he on the table in a few minutes." 
 
 '' Then, gentlemen, we had better go down and pre- 
 pare. ^V'hy, Mr. Irving, you have not shaved this 
 morning." 
 
 " No, major, I mean to do it after dinner." 
 
 " I should rather think that you intended to say before," 
 replied Major Clavering. 
 
 This gentlemanlike hint was taken by the young ensign, 
 who was aware that Major Clavering, although invariably 
 polite even in reproof, was not a commanding officer to be 
 trifled with ; and ]\Ir. Irving made his appearance at ihe 
 dinner table with his " chin new reaped," and smooth as 
 if appertaining to one of the fairer sex.
 
 OR, THK niKRCTIANT SKRVICP. w'^1 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 Come oVr the sea, 
 
 Kaidcn, with nie, 
 Mine through sunshine, storm anil snovs , 
 
 Seasons may roll, 
 
 l?ut the true soul 
 Burns the same where'er it goes. 
 Let fate frown on, so we love and part not, 
 
 'T is life where thou art, 'tis death where thou 'rt not. JMoonE.i** 
 
 t 
 
 The voyage was at last accomplished without adventure or 
 interest, the Windsor Castle not having fallen in with 
 more than two or three vessels during her passage. 
 Happy were the military officers to hear the order given 
 for the anchor to be let go upon their arrival in Madras 
 Roads ; more happy were they to find tliemselves again on 
 shore ; and most happy were Captain Oiighton and his 
 officers to witness the debarkation of the troops, who 
 had so long crowded their decks and impeded their mo- 
 tions. Parting was indeed " sweet sorrow," as it always 
 will be when there is short allowance of room and still 
 shorter allowance of water. 
 
 Newton Forster was in a state of anxiety during the 
 quarter of an hour in which he Avas obliged to attend to 
 his duty, furling the sails and squaring the yards; and 
 the time appeared most insupportably long, until he could 
 venture aft to make some inquiries from the dubashes, who 
 were crowding alongside, as to the fate of Isabel Revel. 
 Time and absence had but matured his passion, and it 
 was seldom that Isabel was away from his thoughts. He 
 had a faint idea formed by hope that she was partial to 
 him ; but this was almost smothered by the fears which 
 opposed it, when he reflected upon what might be pro- 
 duced by absence, importunity, and her independent 
 spirit, which might, if not well treated by her relation, re- 
 concile her to a marriage, which, although not in every way 
 eligible, secured her a prospect of contentment and of 
 peace. 
 
 At last the yards were squared to the satisfaction of the 
 linatewain, the ropes were hauled taut, and coiled down.
 
 332 NEWTON IVtRSTER . 
 
 and the men sent below to tlieir dinners. Newtoii 
 walked aft, and tlie first person he met was the dubash 
 who had attended the Bombay Castle. The cheeks of 
 Newton flushed, and his heart throbbed quick, and his lips 
 quivered, as he asked intelligence of the colonel and his 
 family. 
 
 " Colonel Saib quite well, sir. Two ladies marry officer." 
 
 " Which two?" demanded Newton, eagerly. 
 
 '^ Not know how call Bibi Saib's names. But one not 
 marry — she very handsome — more handsome than all." 
 
 The heart of Newton bounded at this intelligence, as he 
 knew that it must be Isabel who was still a spinster. This 
 was shortly after corroborated by an English gentleman 
 who came on board. Their stay at Madras was intended 
 to be short, and Newton resolved to ask immediate leave 
 on shore. Apologising to C'apfain Oughton for making 
 such an unusual request, which he was induced to do from 
 intelligence he had just received relative to his friends, he 
 expressed his anxious wish. Captain Oughton, who had 
 reason to be hii^hly satisfied with Newton, gave his consent 
 in the kindest manner ; " and, Forster, if you wish to 
 remain, you have my permission. We will manage without 
 you : only recollect, we sail on Thursday night." Newton 
 was soon ready, and quitted the ship with Major Clavering; 
 to whose credit it ought here to be observed, that a daily 
 note was despatched to Captain Oughton, requesting the 
 pleasure of his company at the mess, until he was satisfied 
 that, in this instance, the general invitation was sincere. 
 
 As soon as he was clear of the surf, and out of the 
 masulah boat, Newton hired a conveyance, and drove out 
 to the bungalo of the old colonel. He trembled as he 
 announced his name to the butler, who ushered him half 
 way to the receiving room ; aiul, like most of the natives, 
 finding some difficulty in pronouncing English, contented 
 himself with calling out " hurrah saib," and then walked 
 off. Newton found himself in the presence of the old 
 veteran and Isabel. I'he latter had been reading a new 
 publication, which she laid down at the voice of the butler 
 announcing a visiter. But " hurrah sail " may be any 
 body; it implies a gentleman. What then was the surprise
 
 OR, TUK SIERCHANT SERVICE. 333 
 
 »f Isabel, who had no intimation of his arrival, when 
 Newton Forster made Ins appearance ? Her exclamation of 
 dehght, as she ran to him and extended her hand, made 
 Newton Forster but too happy ; and, as for a few seconds 
 he held the hand not withdrawn, and looked in her beaming 
 eyes, he quite forgot the presence of the colonel. A glance 
 from the eye of Isabel in the direction where the old gen- 
 tleman was seated, brought Newton to his recollection. He 
 walked up to the colonel, who shook hands, and declared 
 that he was most glad to see liim. 
 
 " You take up your quarters here, of course, Mr. Forster?" 
 " I shall have great pleasure in avaihng myself of your 
 kind offer for a day or two," repHed Newton. " I trust 
 that you have been in good health since we parted." 
 
 " Not very; that is, latterly. I am thinking of a change 
 of climate. I intend to go home in October. I suppose 
 you have been informed that the two young women have 
 married ? " 
 
 " I was told so by some one who came on board." 
 " Yes. Isabel, my dear, order a chamber for Mr. Forster." 
 Isabel left the room. " Yes, both married — thought of 
 nothing else — regularly came out on spec. In less than 
 a month they knew the exact rank of every gentleman in 
 the presidency; ascertained their prospects, and the value 
 of their appointments ; turned the rupees into pounds 
 sterling ; broke off a conversation with an ensign at the 
 sight of a lieutenant ; cut the lieutenant for a captain ; 
 were all smiles for a major ; and actually made love them- 
 selves to any body who was above that rank, and a bachelor. 
 They made their decision at last ; indeed pretty quick. 
 They were only four months on my hands. Both up the 
 country now." , 
 
 " I trust they have married well, sir ? " 
 " That depends upon circumstances. They have married 
 young men not used to the climate. May be widows in 
 half a year. If their husbands weather it, of course they 
 wiU come in for their share of the good things; but I'll 
 warrant they will never be able to leave the country." 
 " Not leave the country, sir I May I ask why .'' " 
 " Because they have married foolish, extravagant wive*
 
 334- NEWTON FOHSTER ; 
 
 who will run them in debt; and when once in debt, it is 
 no easy matter in this country to get out of it. They must 
 insure their lives for the money which they borrow; and 
 as the house of agency will be gainers by their demise, of 
 course they will not be permitted to leave the country and 
 their chance of the cholera morbus. Don't you think that 
 my niece looks remarkably well ? " 
 
 " I do ; the climate does not appear to liave affected her." 
 
 " Rather improved her," replied the colonel ; "' she is 
 not so thin as when she came on shore. God bless her ! 
 I 'm sure, Mr. Forster, I am under great obligations to you 
 for having persuaded me to go for the dear girl when she 
 arrived. She has been a treasure to me! If she has had 
 one, she has had twenty offers since you left ; many unex- 
 ceptionable ; but she has refused them all. In some in- 
 stances I have persuaded her — I thought it was my duty. 
 But no ; she has but one answer, and that is a decided one. 
 She will not leave me. She has watched and attended me 
 in my sickness as my own daughter. I say again, God 
 bless her ! " 
 
 It was with delight that Newton heard these encomiums 
 upon Isabel, and her resolution not to marry. Whether it 
 was wholly on account of not wishing to leave the colonel 
 or not, still every delay gave him m,ore chance of ultimate 
 success. Isabel, who had stayed away that the colonel 
 might have time to make any communications to Newton, 
 now returned, and the conversation became general. New- 
 ton entered into a narrative of what had occurred during 
 his passage home, and amused them with his anecdotes 
 and conversation. 
 
 In about an hour the colonel rose from his chair that he 
 might prepare for dinner ; and then it was that Newton 
 perceived the great change which had taken place. He 
 was no longer upright but bowed down ; his step was no 
 longer firm, it was alm.ost tottering ; and, as he left the 
 room, Newton's eyes met those of Isabel. 
 
 " You think him ill?" said Isabel, inquiringly. 
 
 " Yes, I do. Miss Revel. He is very much changed; 
 his stamina appears to have been exhausted by the climate. 
 1 trust he wiU go home, as he proposes."
 
 OR, THK MERCHANT SEUVICE. 335 
 
 "■ He lias been ill — very ill indeed. He talks constantly 
 of going home ; he has done so for months ; but when the 
 time comes he puts it off. I wish you would persuade him." 
 
 " 1 will do all I can ; but if you cannot prevail, I 'm 
 afraid that my persuasion will be of little use." 
 
 " Indeed, I think Otherwise ; you have power over him, 
 Mr. Forster. I have not forgot how kindly you exercised 
 it in my behalf. \Ve — that is," continued Isabel, colouring 
 up, " the colonel has often talked of you since you quitted 
 us." 
 
 " I feel highly flattered by his remembrance," replied 
 Newton • " but you are in mourning. Miss Revel. If not 
 a liberty from one Avho feels an interest in all concerning 
 you, may I inquire for whom ? " 
 
 " It is for my father," replied Isabel, with emotion, 
 sitting down and passing her hand across her eyes. 
 
 " I never heard of his death, and must apologise for 
 having been so indiscreet as to renew your sorrow. How 
 long is it since? and what was his complaint.''" 
 
 " He had no com{)laint — would to God that he had 
 had ! He was shot in a duel," replied Isabel, as the tears 
 coursed down her cheeks. " Oh ! Mr. Forster, I trust I 
 am resigned to the dispensations of Providence, but — that 
 he should be summoned away at the moment when he was 
 seeking the life of his fellow- creature, with all the worst 
 passions in excitement — unprepared — for he was killed 
 on the spot. These reflections will make his death a source 
 of bitter regret, which can terminate but with existence." 
 
 " Your mother is still alive ? " inquired Newton, to ' 
 change the painful subject. 
 
 " Yes, but very ill ; the last accounts were very dis- 
 tressing ; they say that her complaint is incurable." 
 
 Newton regretted having brought up so painful a subject. 
 A few words of condolence and sympathy were offered, 
 and they separated to prepare for dinner. 
 
 Newton remained four days under the roof of the colonel, 
 during which time he was constantly in the society of 
 Isabel ; and when the period of his departure arrived, he 
 had just grounds to imagine that were all obstacles in other 
 points removed, Isabel llevei would not, on her part, have
 
 336 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 raised any against the accomplishment of his wishes ; but 
 their mutual dependent situations chased away all ideas of 
 the kind for the present, and although they parted with 
 unconcealed emotion, not a word which could be construed 
 into a declaration of attachment was permitted to escape 
 his lips. 
 
 The Windor Castle sailed for Calcutta, and in a few days 
 anchored at Kedgeree to wait for a pilot to come down the 
 river. During their short stay at this anchorage, Mr. Wil- 
 liams, the first-mate, who was an old Indian voyager, went 
 on shore every evening to follow up his darling amusement 
 of shooting jackalls, a description of game by no means 
 scarce in that quarter of the world. Often remonstrated 
 with for his imprudence in exposing himself to the heavy 
 night-dew he would listen to no advice. " It was very 
 true, he acknowledged, that his brother had died of a 
 jungle fever in pursuing the same amusement, and what 
 was more, the fowhng-piece in his hand belonged to his 
 brother, who had bequeathed it to him ; but as he had 
 never heard of two brothers dying from a jungle fever 
 taken by shooting jackalls, he considered that the odds were 
 strongly in his favour." This argument, however specious, 
 did not prove good. The third morning he returned on 
 board, complaining of a head-ache and shivering. He 'vyas 
 bled and put into his bed, which he never left again. 
 
 Before the Windsor Castle was ready to sail, the remains 
 of Mr. Williams were consigned to the buryiiig-ground at 
 Diamond Harbour, and Newton Forster was promoted to 
 the rank of first-mate of the Windsor Castle. This, as will 
 hereafter be pioved, was a most fortunate occurrence to 
 Newton Forster. The Windsor Castle sailed with leave 
 to call at Madras for letters or passengers, and in a few 
 days was again at anchor in the roadstead. The first in- 
 telligence which they received upon their arrival was, that 
 the cholera morbus had been very fatal, and that among 
 others, the old colonel had fallen a victim to the disease 
 Newton again obtained permission to go on shore to Isabel. 
 He found her in distress at the house of a Mrs. Enderby, 
 a lady who had lost her husband by the same ravaging 
 epidemic, and who had long been the intimate friend of the
 
 OR, THE MEIJCIIANT SERVICE * 337. 
 
 colonel and of Isabel. Mrs. Endeiby was about to return 
 to England by the first vessel, and had advised Isabel to 
 take so favourable an opportunity of a chaperone. Isabel, 
 who had many reasons for Avishing to leave the country, 
 particularly the declining state of her mother's health, had 
 consented ; and it was with great pleasure that she received 
 from Newton the information of the best cabins of the 
 Windsor Castle not having been hitherto engaged. 
 
 The colonel's will had been opened. He had bequeathed 
 his property, the whole of which, with the exception of his 
 establishment in India, was invested in the English funds, 
 to his grand-niece Isabel Revel. It amounted to nearly 
 seventy thousand pounds. It would be difficult to say 
 whether Newton Forster felt glad or sorry at this intel- 
 ligence. For Isabel's sake, he undoubtedly was glad, but 
 he could not but feel that it increased the distance between 
 them, and on that account, and on that alone, his reflections 
 were painful. " Had it," thought he, " been five thou- 
 sand, or even ten thousand pounds, it would have been dif- 
 ferent. In the course of a few years I might have been 
 able to produce an equivalent to it, and — but this fortune 
 has raised her above my hopes ; even if she liad a prepos- 
 session in my favour, it would be dishonest to take advan- 
 tage of it." 
 
 Isabel Revel had very different feelings on the subject ; 
 — she was her own mistress, and her manner to Newton 
 was more cordial, more confidential than before. She had 
 not forgotten that Newton had shown the ^eame regard and 
 partiality for her when slie M-as going out to India; and 
 afterwards, when in distress, he had been her friend and 
 admirer when in adversity. She knew his feelings towards 
 her, and she had appreciated his delicacy and forbearance. 
 Lately she had seriously analysed her own, and her analysis 
 was wound up by a mental acknowledgment, that her wealth 
 would be valueless, if she could not share it v,'ith Newton 
 Forster. 
 
 At the request of Mrs. Enderby, the poop cabins were 
 
 engaged for Isabel and herself. Their time for preparation 
 
 was short ; but one day more having been obtained from 
 
 Captain Oughton, through the influence of NeA\ton, IMr-; 
 
 z
 
 538 
 
 NKWTUN FORSTER; 
 
 Enderby and Isabel embarked, and the Windsor Castle 
 spread her canvas, sailing away from pestilence and death, 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 Britannia needs no bulwark. 
 
 No towers along tlie steep. 
 Her march is o'er the mountain waves, 
 
 Her home is on the deep. Campbell. 
 
 The Windsor Castle ploughed through the vast ocean of 
 waters before a propitious gale, laden with treasure, in the 
 safe arrival of which so many were interested. But what 
 were all the valuables stowed away in her frame, in the 
 opinion of Newton Forster, in comparison with the lovely 
 being who had intrusted them with her safe conduct to her 
 native country ! The extreme precautions adopted or 
 suggested by Newton for security during the night — his 
 nervous anxiety during the day — became a source of 
 laughter and ridicule to Captain Oughton ; who once ob- 
 served to him, — " Newton, my boy, I see how the land 
 lies, but depend upon it the old ship won't tumble over- 
 board a bit sooner than before ; so one reef in the top-sails 
 will be quite sufficient." 
 
 Indeed, although they " never mentioned it," it was 
 impossible for either of them to disguise their feelings. 
 Their very attempts at concealment only rendered them 
 more palpable to every one on board. Captain Oughton, 
 who was very partial to Newton, rejoiced in his good for- 
 tune. He had no objection to young people falling or 
 being in love on board of his ship, although he would not 
 have sanctioned or permitted a marriage to take place during 
 the period that a young lady was under his protection. 
 Once landed on Deal beach, as he observed, they might 
 " buckle to" as soon as they pleased. 
 
 The Windsor Castle was within two hundred miles of 
 the Mauritius, when a strange vessel was discovered on the
 
 OK, THE MEKCHANT SEItVlCE. 339 
 
 weather beam, bearing down to them witl) all the canvas 
 she could spread. Her appearance was warlike ; but what 
 her force might be, it was impossible to ascertain at the 
 distance she was off, and the position which she then of- 
 fered, being then nearly " end on," 
 
 " Can you make out her hull, Mr. Forster ? " cried 
 Captain Oughton, hailing Newton, who was at the mast- 
 head with a glass. 
 
 " No, sir ; her fore-yard is but now clear of the water, 
 but she rises very fast." 
 
 " What do you think of her spars, Forster ? " said Cap- 
 tain Oughton to Newton, who had just descended to the 
 last rattling of the main-rigging. 
 
 " She is very taunt, sir, and her canvas appears to be 
 foreign." 
 
 " I'll bet you what you please it's that d^ d fellow 
 
 Surcceuf. This is just his cruising-grouiul, if the report 
 of that neutral vessel was correct." 
 
 " Another hour will decide the point, sir," replied New- 
 ton ; " but I must say I think your surmise likely to prove 
 correct. We may as well be ready for him : a cruiser she 
 certainly is." 
 
 " The sooner the better, Mr, Forster. He's but a ' rum 
 customer,' and ' a hard hitter' by all accoimts. Clear up 
 the decks, and beat to quarters." 
 
 The strange vessel came down with such rapidity, that, 
 by the time the captain's orders were obeyed, she was not 
 more than two miles distant. 
 
 "There's 'in studding-sails;' — and in devilish good 
 style too!' observed Captain Oughton, " Now we shall 
 see what he's made of." 
 
 The vessel rounded to the wind as soon as she had re- 
 duced her sails, on the same tack as the Windsor Castle, 
 displaying her broadside, as the French v^ould say, herisaie 
 des canons. 
 
 " A corvette, sir," said Newton, reconnoitering through 
 his glass ; two-and-twenty guns besides her bridle ports, — 
 She is French rigged ; — the rake of her stern is French ; — 
 in fact, she is French all over," 
 
 " All Lombard Street to a China orange, 'tis Surcoeuf," 
 z 2
 
 .'340 NKWTON^ FORSTER ; 
 
 replied Captain Oughton, who with tlie rest of the officers 
 had his glass upon the vessel. There goes the tri-coloured 
 ilag to prove I've won my bet. Answer the challenge. 
 'I'oss my hat up. — Pshaw ! I mean hoist the colours there 
 abaft. Mr. Tliomas," continued Captain Oughton, address- 
 ing the boatswain, ^'^send the ship's company aft. — Forster, 
 you had better see the ladies down below." 
 
 At the summons of the boatswain, the men came aft, and 
 stood in a body on the lee-side of the quarter-deck with their 
 hats off, and impatience in their looks. 
 
 " Now, my lads," said Captain Oughton, " if I am not 
 mistaken, that vessel is commanded by the very best seaman 
 that ever left a Frencli port, and, to do him justice, he's a 
 damnation fine fellow ! — a severe punisher, and can take a 
 mauling as well as give one." 
 
 " Yes, sir, so can we," replied several of the men to- 
 gether. 
 
 '^ 1 know you can, my lads ; and give and take is fair 
 play. All I say is, let it be a fair stand-up fight, and 
 ' may the best man win.' So now, my lads, if you're 
 ready to come to the scratch, why, the sooner we peel the 
 better — that's all." 
 
 " Hurrah ! " cried the seamen, as they separated to their 
 quarters; and in compliance with the injunctions of the 
 ca])tain, threw oft' their jackets, and many of them their 
 shirts, to prepare for the conflict. 
 
 The corvette, after she had rounded to, and exchanged 
 colours, reduced her sails to precisely the same canvas as 
 that carried by the Windsor Castle. This was to try her 
 rate of sailing. In a quarter of an hour, her superiority 
 was manifest. She then hauled up her courses, and dropped 
 to her former ])ositIon on the Windsor Castle's weather- 
 beam. 
 
 " The fellow has the heels of us, at aU events," observed 
 Captain Oughton ; " but, Forster, the ladies are not yet 
 below. Mrs. Enderby, I am sorry to be obliged to put you 
 in confinement for a short time. — Miss Revel, you must 
 do me the favour to accept of Mr. Forster's convoy below 
 the water-line." 
 
 Newton off'ered his arm to Isabel, and followed Captain
 
 OR, THE MKRCHANX SERVICE. 341 
 
 Ougliton, who escorted Mrs. Enderby. His heart was swell- 
 ing with such variety of feeling, that he could not at first 
 trust himself to speak. ^Vhen they had descended the ladder, 
 and were picking their way, stepping over tlie rammers, 
 sponges, and tackles, stretched across the main-deck, New- 
 ton observed — " This is not the first time I have been 
 commissioned to place you in seq^rity. I trust I shaP 
 again have the pleasure of relieving you from your bondage." 
 
 Isabel's lip quivered as she repHed, "■ I trust in God 
 that you may, Mr. Forster ! — but — I feel more anxious 
 now than I did on the former occasion. — I " 
 
 " I have a foreboding," interrupted Newton, " that this 
 day's work is to make or mar me ,' Why, I cannot tell, but 
 I feel more confident than the chances would warrant ; but 
 farewell, Isabel — God bless you!" — and Newton, press- 
 ing her hand, sprung up the ladder to his station on the 
 quarter-deck. 
 
 I have before observed that a man's courage much de- 
 pends upon his worldly means or prospects. A man who 
 has much to lose, whatever the property may consist of, 
 will be less inclined to fight than another whose whole capital 
 consists of a " light heart and a thin pair of breeches." 
 Upon the same reasoning, a man in love will not be in- 
 clined to fight as another. Death then cuts off the sweetest 
 prospect in existence. Lord St. Vincent used to say, that a 
 
 married man was d d for the service. Now (bating 
 
 the honeymoon), I do not agree with his lordship. A man 
 in love may be inclined to play the Mark Antony ; but a 
 married man, " come what will, he has been blessed.' 
 Once fairly into action, it then is of little consequence 
 whether a man is a bachelor, or married, or in love ; the 
 all-absorbing occupation of killing your fellow creatures 
 makes you for the time forget whether you are a beggar or 
 a prince. 
 
 When Newton returned on deck, he found that the cor- 
 vette had gradually edged down until nearly witliin point 
 blank range. 
 
 " Shall we lay the main-topsail to tlie mast } " observed 
 Newton. We shall see his manoeuvres." 
 
 "^ Why, he hardly would be fool enough to bear dowi" 
 z 3
 
 342 NEWTON FOKSTEB ; 
 
 to US," replied Captain Oughton ; " he is a determined 
 fellow, I know ; but I believe not a rash one. However, 
 we can but try. — Square the main-yard." 
 
 As soon as the Windsor Castle was hove-to the courses 
 of the enemy were seen to flutter a few moments in the 
 breeze^ and then the canvas was expanded. When the 
 vessel had gathered sufficient way, she hove in stays, and 
 crossed the Windsor Castle on the opposite tack. 
 K " I thought so," observed Captain Oughton. " The 
 fellow knows what he is about. He'll not ' put his head 
 in chancery,' that's clear. How cautious the rascal is ! it's 
 very like the first round of a fight, — much manoeuvring 
 and wary sparring tefore they begin to make play." 
 
 The corvette stood on the opposite tack until well abaft 
 the beam. She then wore round, and ranged up on the 
 weather quarter of the Indiaman. AFhen within two 
 cables' length of the Windsor Castle, Avho had, a little be- 
 fore, filled her main-topsail to be in command, the French- 
 man hauled up his foresail, and discovered his lower rigging 
 manned by the ship's company, who gave a loud but hasty 
 cheer, and then disappeared. 
 
 One cock crowing is a challenge, sure to be answered, 
 if the antagonist is game. The English seamen sprung 
 up to return the compliment, when Captain Oughton 
 roared out, " To your guns, you fools ! Hard down with 
 the helm — fly the jib-sheet — check head-braces — look 
 out now, my lads." 
 
 The corvette had already put her helm up and paid off 
 to pass under the stern of the Windsor Castle, with the 
 intention of raking her. The promptitude of Captain 
 Oughton foiled the manoeuvre of the Frenchman ; which 
 would have been more fatal, had the English seamen been 
 in the rigging to have been swept off by his grape-shot. 
 As the Windsor Castle was thrown up on the wind, an 
 exchange of broadsides took place, which, according to the 
 casual custom of all well-regulated broadsides in close con- 
 flict, cut away a certain proportion of the spars and rig- 
 ging, and cut up a proportion of the ships' companies. 
 The Windsor Castle, worked by Newtonj bracing round
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 348 
 
 on the other tack, and the corvette roundinpj to on the 
 same, the two vessels separated for a few minutes. 
 
 " DeviHsh well stopped, Newton, wasn't it?" said 
 Captain Oughton, showing his white teeth. " Look out 
 again — here she comes." 
 
 The corvette again attempted to rake as she ranged up 
 after tacking, by throwing herself up in the wind ; but 
 Captain Oughton, watching the slightest variation of his 
 adversary's career, gradually edging away, and then putting 
 his helm up, manoeuvred that the bi'oadsides should again 
 be exchanged. This second exchange was more effectual 
 than the first. 
 
 "A stomacher, and both down !" cried Captain Ough- 
 ton, as he surveyed the deck. " Be quick, Newton, hand 
 the men below. Do n't bring her to the wind yet, he has 
 lost his way by luffing up, and cannot make play again for 
 a few minutes." 
 
 After the second broadside the vessels were much fur- 
 ther apart, from the "Windsor Castle running off the v/ind, 
 while the corvette was too much crippled to work with her 
 usual rapidity. This was convenient to both parties, as 
 the last broadside had been very mischievous. The French- 
 man, low in the water, had suffered less in her hull and 
 ship's company, but more in her spars and rigging. The 
 fpremast was nearly cut in half by the carronade shot of 
 her antagonist; her main-yard was badly wounded, and 
 her wheel knocked to atoms ; which obliged them to steer 
 on the lower deck. The Windsor Castle had received five 
 shots in her hull, three men killed, and six wounded; three 
 of her main shrouds cut in two, and her mizen-mast 
 badly wounded. 
 
 It was a quarter of an hour before the Frenchman re- 
 turned to the attack. Captain Oughton had again hauled 
 his wind, as if not wishing to decline the combat ; which 
 indeed, the superior sailing of his antagonist prevented. 
 The corvette appeared to have given up manoeuvring ; 
 whether from the crippled state of her spars and sails, or 
 from perceiving that he had hitherto gained nothing by 
 his attempts. He now ranged up to within two cables' 
 z 4
 
 344 NEAVTON korster; 
 
 lengths of the Windsor Castle, and recommenced the 
 action, broadside to broadside. 
 
 The breeze was lulled by the concussion of the air; and 
 both vessels continued in the same position, and at the 
 same distance for upwards of an hour, pouring in their 
 broadsides, every shot of which was effectual. 
 
 " Now, this is what I call a reg'lar set-to. Fire away, 
 my lads," cried Captain Oughton, rubbing his hands. " A 
 proper rally this. D — n it, but he's game !" 
 
 The wounded mizen-mast of the Windsor Castle re- 
 ceived another shot in the heart of it, which threw it over 
 the side. Every part of her hull proved the severe and 
 well-directed fire of the enemy ; her sails were as ragged 
 as Jeremy Didler's pocket-handkerchief ; her remaining 
 masts pitted with shot ; the bulwarks torn away in several 
 places ; the boats on the booms in shivers ; rigging cut 
 away fore and aft, and the ends swinging to and fro 
 with the motion of the vessel; her decks in confusion; 
 and some of her guns, from necessity, deserted. Captain 
 Oughton, Newton, and the rest of the officers, continued 
 to encourage the men, giving them assistance in working 
 the guns ; and the ship's company appeared to have fully 
 imbibed the bull-dog spirit of their commander. 
 
 The fire of the Windsor Castle had been equally de- 
 structive. The vessels had gradually neared each other in 
 the calm ; and the height of the Windsor Castle out of 
 the water, in comparison with the corvette, had given her 
 the advantage in sweeping the decks of the enemy. The 
 contending vessels were in this situation when, for a minute 
 or two, a cessation of firing took place, in consequence of 
 the accumulation of smoke, which had so completely en- 
 shrouded them both, that they knew not where to direct 
 their guns; and they Avaited until it should clear away, that 
 the firing might recommence. A light air gradually swept 
 the veil to leeward, and discovered both vessels to each 
 other, at the distance of about half a cable's length. Cap- 
 tain Oughton was with Newton on the poop, and the com- 
 mander of the French corvette was standing on the ham- 
 mock nettings of his own vessel. The latter took off his 
 h&t and courteously saluted his adversary. Captain
 
 OB, THE JIERCHANT SERVICi!. 5*5 
 
 Oughton answered the salutation ; and then waving his 
 hat, pointed to the English colours, which had heen hoisted 
 at the main ; as much as to say, " they never shall come 
 down !" The Frenchman (it was Surcoeuf) did the same 
 to the tricolour, an3 the action recommenced. 
 
 " Well done my lads !" cried Captain Oughton ; " well 
 done ! that hroadside was a staggerer — right into his ribs. 
 Hurrah now, my hearts of oak ! this fellow's worth fight- 
 ing. Aim at his foremast — another broadside will floor 
 it. It's on the reel — Newton, jump forward, and " 
 
 But the order was stopped by a grape-shot, which 
 struck Captain Oughton on the breast. He staggered and 
 fell oflf from the poop to the (juarter-deck. Newton leapt 
 down, and went to him. The torrents of blood from his 
 breast at once told the tale ; and Newton called to some 
 of the men, that his commander might be taken below. 
 
 " Wait a moment, my dear lad," said Captain Oughton, 
 faintly, and catching his breath at every word; "it's a 
 finisher — can't come to time — I die game." His head 
 fell on his hreast, and the blood poured out of his mouth. 
 
 Newton directed the body to be taken into the cuddy, 
 that the men might not be dispirited by the sight. He 
 then hastened to the poop, that he might reconnoitre the 
 enemy. He perceived that the corvette had hauled on 
 board his tattered courses, and was standing a-hcad of 
 them. 
 
 " He 's oflp, sir," cried one of the quarter-masters. 
 
 " I suspect not," replied Newton, who had his glass to 
 his eye, looking upon the decks of the French vessel. 
 " They are preparing to board, and will be round again in 
 five minutes. Cutlasses and pikes ready — forward, my 
 lads, all of us ! We must beat them off!" 
 
 " And will too," cried the seamen, as, in obedience to 
 their orders, they collected on the forecastle. But they 
 mustered thin ; nearly half of the ship's company were 
 either lying dead or under the hands of the surgeon ; and, 
 as Newton surveyed his little force, fatigued as they were 
 with their exertions, black with powder, stained with 
 blood, and reeking with perspiration, he could not but 
 acknowledge how heavy were the odds against the attack
 
 J4h NEWTOIV KOllSTEK ; 
 
 of a vessel so well manned as the corvette appeared to be. 
 Newton said but a few words ; but they were to the point; 
 and he had the satisfaction to jierceive, as they grasped 
 their cutlasses, that if their numbers were few and their 
 frames exhausted^ their spirit was as unsubdued as ever. 
 
 The corvette had ur the mean time run a-head on a 
 wind, about a mile, when she wore round, and was now 
 standing right on to the Windsor Castle, and had neared 
 to within three cables' lengths. A few minutes was to 
 decide the point. Her courses were again hauled up, and 
 discovered her lee fore-rigging, bowsprit, cat-lieads, and 
 forecastle, crowded with men ready for the dash on board, 
 as soon as the vessels should come in contact. Newton stood 
 on one of the forecastle guns, surrounded by his men; 
 not a word was spoken on board of the Windsor Castle, 
 as they watched their advancing enemy. They were 
 Avithin a cable's length of each other, and Newton could 
 plainly distinguish the features of the gallant Surcoeuf, 
 who was in advance on the knight-heads, when a puff of 
 wind, which at any other time would not have occasioned 
 the starting of a royal sheet, took the sails of the corvette ; 
 and her wounded foremast, laden with men in the lee- 
 rigging, unable to bear the pressure, fell over the side, 
 carrying with it the main-top-mast and most of the crew 
 who had been standing in the rigging, and leaving the 
 corvette an encumbered wreck. A loud shout from the 
 forecastle of the Windsor Castle announced that the 
 English seamen were but too well aware of their des- 
 perate situation, and that they hailed the misfortune of 
 the Frenchmen as their deliverance. 
 
 " Now, my lads, be smart," cried Newton, as he sprung 
 aft to the wheel, and put up the helm ; " man the flying 
 jib-halyards (the jib was under the fore-foot); let go the 
 main-top bowli\ig ; square the main-yard. That will do, 
 she's paying off. jNIan your guns; half a dozen broadsides, 
 and it's all our own." 
 
 The sun had disappeared below the horizon, and the 
 shades of evening had set in, before this manoeuvre had 
 been accomplished. Several broadsides were poured into 
 the corvette, which had the desired effect of crippling her
 
 OH, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 347 
 
 still more, and her encumbered condition prevented any 
 return. At last the night hid both vessels from each other, 
 and the breeze freshening fast, it was necessary that the 
 remaining masts of the Windsor Castle should be properly 
 secured. The guns were therefore abandoned; and during 
 the time the seamen were employed in knotting the rigi^ing 
 and bending the spare sails, Newton consulted with his 
 brother officers, wlio were unanimous in agreeing that all 
 had been done that could be expected, and that to wait till 
 the ensuing day, when the corvette would have repaired 
 her damages, would be attended with a risk of capture, 
 which the valuable property entrusted to their charge 
 would never authorise. It was not until past midnight 
 that the Windsor Castle was in a condition to make sail; 
 but long before this, Newton had contrived to leave the 
 deck for a few minutes to communicate with Isabel. With 
 most of the particulars, and with the death of Captain 
 Oughton, she had already been made acquainted; and, if 
 there could be any reward to Newton for his gallantry and 
 his prudence, more coveted than another, it was the affec- 
 tionate greeting with which he was welcomed and congra- 
 tulated by Isabel, her eyes beaming with tears of delight 
 as they glanced from his face, and were shrouded on the 
 deck. 
 
 Love and murder make a pretty mixture, although as 
 antithetical as the sweet and acid in punch; a composition 
 which meets the approbation of all sensible, discriminating 
 people. But I shall leave the reader to imagine all he 
 pleases, and finish the chapter by informing him that, when 
 the sun again made his appearance, the corvette was not 
 to be discovered from the masthead. The guns were 
 therefore properly secured; the decks washed; a jury 
 mizen-mast stuck up abaft ; Captain Oughton, and the 
 gallant fellows who had fallen in the combat, committed 
 to the deep with the usual ceremonies; the wounded made 
 as comfortable as possible in their hammocks; the carpen- 
 ters busied with the necessary repairs; and the Windsor 
 Castle, commanded by Newton Forster, running before a 
 spanking breeze, at the rate of eight knots per hour.
 
 S4iS NEWTON FOKSTES 
 
 CHAPTER XL 
 
 Ships are but boards, sailors but men ; 
 
 There be laud rats, aud water rats, water thievci:. 
 
 And laud thieves; I inean pirates. SHillSFEiais. 
 
 Most prophetical was the remark made by Newton P'orster 
 to Isabel previous to the action; to wit, that it would 
 make or mar him. The death of Captain Oughton, and 
 the spirited defence of the Windsor Castle, were the 
 making of Newton Forster. As a subordinate officer he 
 might have been obliged to toil many years before he conid 
 have ascended to the summit of the ladder of promotion ; 
 and during the time which he remained in that situation, 
 what chance had he of making an independence, and pro- 
 posing for the hand of Isabel Revel ? But now, that by 
 a chain of circumstances peculiarly fortuitous, he was in 
 command of an East Indiaman, returning home after hav- 
 ing beat ofF a vessel of equal if not superior force, and 
 preserved a cargo of immense value, he felt confident that 
 he not only would be confirmed to his rank which he was 
 now called upon to assume, but that he had every prospect 
 of being employed. As a captain of an Indiaman, he was 
 aware that reception into society, wealth, and consideration 
 awaited him; and, what made his heart to swell with gra- 
 titude and exultation, was the feeling that soon he would 
 be enabled to aspire to the hand of one to whom he had so 
 long been ardently attached. 
 
 As the W'^indsor Castle plunged through the roaring and 
 complaining seas, with all the impetus of weight in mo- 
 tion, Newton's eyes were radiant with hope, although his 
 demeanour towards Isabel was, from the peculiar circum- 
 stances attending their situation, more delicately reserved 
 than before. 
 
 When the Windsor Castle touched at St. Helena, New- 
 ton had the good fortune to obtain a supply of able seamen, 
 more than sufficient for the remanning of his ship. They 
 had been sent there in an empty brig by a French priva-
 
 OR, THK MERCHANT SERVICE. 349 
 
 teer, who had captured many vessels, and had been em- 
 barrassed with the number of her prisoners. Having 
 obtained the stores which were required, Newton lost no 
 time in prosecuting his voyage to England. 
 
 It was about a fortnight after they had quitted St. 
 Helena that a strange sail was reported on the starboard 
 bow ; and, as they neared her, it Avas evident that her 
 foremast was gone, and that she was otherwise in a dis- 
 abled state. When the Indiaman was within a mile, the 
 stranger threw out neutral colours, and hoisted a whiff, 
 half-mast down, as a signal that she was in distress. New- 
 ton ordered the ship to be kept av/ay, and when alongside 
 of the vessel, lowered down a boat, and sent the third 
 mate to ascertain what assistance could be afforded. With 
 sailors, thank God ! distress is sufficient to obtain assist- 
 ance, and the nation or country are at once merged in that 
 feeling of sympathy for those misfortunes, which may 
 perhaps but the next hour befall ourselves. The boat re- 
 turned, and the officer informed Newton that the vessel 
 was from the Island of Bourbon, bound to Hamburgh ; 
 that she had been dismasted and severely injured in a gale 
 off the Cape of Good Hope ; and that when her mast 
 went over the side, one half of her crew, who were up at 
 the time on the fore-yard had been cast overboard and 
 drowned : that from the want of men and material, they 
 had been unable to rig an effective jury-mast, and had in 
 consequence been so long on their passage, that their pro- 
 visions and water were nearly expended. The officer con- 
 cluded by stating, that there were a French lady and two 
 gentlemen, with their attendants, Avho had taken their 
 passage home in the vesse^. Newton immediately went 
 down the side, and pulled on board of the vessel to ascer- 
 tain what assistance could be afforded. When he arrived 
 on board, he was met by the Flemish captain, who com- 
 menced a statement of his misfortunes and his difficulties, 
 when tlie French lady, who, unobserved by Newton, had 
 come up the companion-ladder, screamed out as she ran 
 into his arms — 
 
 " Ah ! mon Dieu ! — c est Monsieur Nu-tong !" 
 Newton looked at the lady, who had bui^t into tear^
 
 350 NEWTON FORSTER , 
 
 as her face laid upon his shoulder, and immediately recog 
 nised his former kind and affectionate friend, Madame de 
 Fontanges : close to him, with his hand extended, was her 
 generous husband. The meeting was joyful, and Newton 
 was delighted that circumstances had enabled him to ren- 
 der assistance to those who had been so kind to him in his 
 former distress. 
 
 " Oh ! Monsieur Nu-tong, nous avons tant soufFerts ! 
 Ah ! mon Dieu ! — point de I'eau — rien a manger," cried 
 Madame de Fontanges; then smiMng through her tears, 
 "^ mais ce rencontre est charmant; — n'est ce pas mon 
 ami ?" continued the lady, appealing to her husband. 
 
 '^'^ You do not remember Monsieur le Marquis.''" said 
 M. de Fontanges to Newton. Newton turned his head 
 and recognised the governor of Guadaloupe, who liad ex- 
 pressed such sympathy at his shipwreck, and had sent him 
 away in the cartel instead of detaining him as a prisoner. 
 
 The vessel was indeed in a deplorable condition, and had 
 she not received the timely assistance now afforded, would 
 in all probabiHty have soon been a scene of horror and of 
 suffering. They had not more than three days' water re- 
 maining on board, and provisions barely sufficing for three 
 days. Newton hastened to send back the boat with orders 
 for an immediate and ample supply of these necessaries, in 
 case of bad weather coming on, and preventing further 
 communication. Satisfied that their immediate wants were 
 relieved, Newton took leave of his friends for the present, 
 and returned on board of his own ship, despatching his 
 carpenters and part of his crew to the immediate refit of 
 the vessel, and then selecting a part of every thing that the 
 Windsor Castle contained in her store-rooms or on her 
 decks, which he thought would administer to the comfort 
 or the luxury of the passengers on board of the neutral. 
 
 In two hours, they, who were in a state bordering upon 
 famine, found themselves revelling, in plenty. Before 
 niglit, the English seamen had a jury-mast up, and the 
 sails set. The Hollanders on board would have giveh 
 their assistance, but they were told to remain on deck and 
 make up for lost time, Avliich they acquiesced in very rea- 
 dily, eating and drinking as if they were determined to
 
 oil, THE MEKC.'IAM- SKRVICE. 351 
 
 lay in a stock for the retnaiiuler of the voyage. Newton, 
 v.'lio had returned on board of the neutral to superintend 
 tlie repairs and enjoy the society of his old friends, re- 
 ceived from them a long account of what had occurred 
 since their separation. At nightfall he took his leave, 
 promising to continue under easy sail and remain with 
 them for a day or two, until they were satisfied that all 
 was right, and that they no longer required his assistance. 
 
 The narrative obtained by Newton may be thus con- 
 densed for the information of the reader. The Marquis 
 de Fontanges had been appointed from the government of 
 Guadaloupe, to that of the Island of Bourbon, which was 
 considered of more importance. Monsieur and Madame de 
 Fontanges accompanied him to his new command ; and 
 they had remained there for two years, when the ruling 
 powers, without any ground, except that the marquis had 
 received his appointment from the former government, 
 thought proper to supersede him. Frigates were not so 
 plentiful as to spare one for the return of an ex-governor ; 
 and the marquis being permitted to find his way home 
 how he could, had taken advantage of the sailing of the 
 Hamburgher, to return to Europe or to France, or as he 
 cjight find it advisable. 
 
 For two days, during which the weather was so fine 
 that Madame de Fontanges and the gentlemen went on 
 board of the Windsor Castle, and were introduced to the 
 ladies, Newton continued under easy sail, each day de- 
 spatching to the neutral every thing which his ^^ratitude 
 could suggest ; but, as Newton was most anxious to pro- 
 ceed on his voyage, it was agreed that the next morning 
 they should part company. At the close of the evening a 
 strange sail was observed on the weather-beam ; but, as 
 she carried no foretop-gallant sail, and appeared to be 
 steering the same course as the Windsor Castle, she excited 
 but a momentary observation, su{)posing that she was some 
 homeward-bound neutral, or a merchant vessel whicli had 
 separated from her convoy. During the night, which was 
 dark, the moon being in her first quarter, the officer of 
 the middle-watch lost sight of their protegee; but this 
 was to be expected, as she did not carry a light. Before
 
 35? NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 morning the wind fell^ and when the sun arose it was a 
 perfect cahn. The officer of the watch, as the day 
 dawned, went on the poop, surveying the horizon for their 
 companion, and discovered her six or seven miles astern, 
 lying alongside of the strange vessel which they had seen 
 the day before. Both vessels, as well as the Windsor 
 Castle, were becalmed. He immediately went down to 
 Newton, acquainting him with the circumstance, which 
 bore a very suspicious appearance. Newton hastened on 
 deck ; with his glass he could plainly distinguish that the 
 stranger was a vessel of a low, raking description, evidently 
 no merchant-man, but built for sailing fast, and in all pro- 
 bability a privateer. The man at the mast-head reported 
 that boats were constantly passing between the two vessels, 
 Newton, who felt very anxious for the safety of his friends, 
 accepted the offer of the second-mate to take the gig, and 
 ascertain what was going on. In little more than an 
 hour the gig was seen from the mast-head to arrive within 
 half a mile of the vessels, and shortly afterwards the smoke 
 from a gun, followed by a distant report. The gig then 
 winded, and pulled back towards the Windsor Castle. It 
 was in a state of great excitement that Newton waited for 
 her return, when the second-mate informed him that on 
 his approach he discovered that she was a flush vessel, 
 pierced for fourteen guns, painted black, and apparently 
 well manned ; that she evidently, to use a nautical term, 
 was " gutting the neutral ;" and that, as they had wit- 
 nessed, on their boat coming within range, the vessel had 
 fired a round of grape, which fortunately fell short of 
 them. She had shown no colours ; and, from her ap- 
 pearance and behaviour (as all privateers respect neutrals), 
 he had no doubt that she was the pirate vessel, stated, 
 when they were at St. Helena, to be cruising in these 
 latitudes. Newton was of the same opinion ; and it was 
 with a heavy heart that he returned to the cabin, to com- 
 municate the unpleasant intelligence to Mrs. Endei'by and 
 Isabel. 
 
 Then; is nothing more annoying in this world than the 
 v/ill without the power. At any tijne, a vessel becalmed 
 is considered a very sufficing reason Jo r swearing by thope
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 353 
 
 who are on board of her. What then must have been the 
 feelings of Newton, lying on the water in a state of com- 
 pelled inaction, wliile his friends were being plundered, 
 and perhaps murdered by a gang of miscreants before his 
 eyes ! How eagerly and repeatedly did he scan the horizon 
 for the coming breeze ! Hoav did Hope raise her head at 
 the slightest cat's paw that ruffled the surface of the glassy 
 waters ! Three successive gales of wind are bad enough ; 
 but tliree gales blowing hard enough to blow the devil's 
 horns off are infinitely preferable to one idle, stagnant, 
 motionless, confounded calm, oppressing you with the 
 blue devils, and maddening you with the fidgets at one 
 and the same time. 
 
 At last, as the sun descended, the breeze sprung up, 
 first playing along the waters in capricious and tantaHsing 
 airs, as if uncertain and indifferent in its infancy to which 
 quarter of the compass it should direct its course. The 
 ship again answered her helm ; her head was put the right 
 way, and the sails were trimmed to every shift which it 
 made, to woo its utmost power. In a quarter of an hour 
 it settled, blowing from a quarter which placed them to- 
 windward of, and they carried it down with them to within 
 two miles of the stranger and the neutral, who still re- 
 mained becalmed. But, as the wind freshened, it passed 
 a-head of them, sweeping along the surface, and darkening 
 the colours of the water, until it reached the vessels to 
 leeward ; one of which, the one that Newton was so 
 anxious to get along-side of, immediately took advantage 
 of it, (and, spreading all her canvas, soon increased her 
 distance. When the Windsor Castle arrived abreast of 
 the neutral, the stranger was more than two miles to 
 leeward. A little delay was then necessary to ascertain 
 what had occurred. Newton, who perceived M. de Fon- 
 tanges on the deck, shouting to them, and wringing his 
 hands, rounded to, lowered down a boat, and pulled on 
 board of the neutral. The intelligence communicated was 
 distressing. The strange vessel was a pirate, who had 
 plundered them of every tiling, had taken away i\Iadame 
 de Fontanges, Mimi and Charlotte, her two female attend- 
 
 A A
 
 35'i NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 ants. The captain of the pirates had wounded, and severely 
 beaten M. de Fontanges, who had resisted tlie " enlevement" 
 of his wife ; and, after having cut away all the standing 
 rigging, and nearly chopped through the masts with axes, 
 they had finished their work by boring holes in the counter 
 of the vessel ; so that, had not Newton been able to come up 
 with her, they must all have perished during the night. 
 
 There was no time to be lost ; the Marquis de Fon- 
 tanges, M. de Fontanges, and the crew, were hurried on 
 board of the Windsor Castle (the pirate had taken care that 
 they should not be delayed in packing up their baggage,) 
 and Newton, as soon as he returned on board, and hoisted 
 up his boat, crowded every stitch of canvas in pursuit of 
 the pirate, who was now more than four miles distant. 
 But, although the wind gradually increased, and was thus 
 far in their favour, as they first benefited by it, yet, as the 
 sun went down, so did their hopes descend. At night-fall 
 the pirate had increased her distance to seven miles. 
 Newton pursued, watching her with a night-glass until 
 she could no longer be distinguished. Still, their anxiety 
 was so great, that no one went to bed on board of the 
 Windsor Castle. When the day broke, the pirate was not 
 to be discovered in any quarter of the horizon from the 
 mast-head of the Windsor Castle. 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 She stood a moment as a Pythoness 
 Stands on her tripod, agonised and full 
 
 Of inspiration gather'd from distress. 
 When all the heart-strings, like wild horses, pull 
 
 The heart asunder ; then, as more or less 
 
 Their speed abated or their strength grew dull. 
 
 She sunk down on her seat by slow degrees. 
 
 And bow'd her throbbing head o'er trembling knees 
 
 BVBON. 
 
 It was with deep regret that Newton gave directions for 
 the ship's head to be again directed on her course to En^
 
 OR, THE SIERCHANT SERVICE. 355 
 
 gland ; but the property under his charge was of too great 
 value to warrant risking it by cruising after the pirates, the 
 superior sailing of whose vessel afforded no hopes of success. 
 The Vnelancholy situation of Madame de Fontanges threw 
 a gloom over the party, which was communicated even to 
 the seamen ; while the anguish of M. de Fontanges, ex- 
 pressed with all the theatrical violence characteristic of his 
 nation, was a source of continual reminiscence and regret. 
 They had been four days on their voyage, making little 
 progress with the light and baffling winds, when they were 
 shrouded in one of those thick fogs which prevail in the 
 latitude of the Cape de Verds, and which was rendered 
 more disagreeable by a mizzhng rain. 
 
 On the sixth day, about twelve o'clock, the horizon 
 cleared to the northward, and the fog in that quarter was 
 rolled away by a strong breeze which rippled along the 
 water. Newton, who was on deck, observed the directio., 
 of the wind to be precisely the ^"-vp.rse of the httle breez^ 
 to which their sails had oeen trimmed ; and the yards of 
 the "Windsor Castle were braced round to meet it. The gust 
 was strong, and the ship, laden as she was, careened over to 
 the sudden force of it, as the top-gallant sheets and halyards 
 were let fly by the directions of the officer of the watch. 
 The fog, which had still continued thick to leeward, now 
 began to clear away ; and, as the bank dispersed, the 
 Marquis de Fontanges, who was standing on the poop by 
 the side of Newton, cried out "Voila uii batiment!'' 
 Newton looked in the direction pointed out, and discovered 
 the hull of a vessel looming through the fog, about a quarter 
 of a mile to leeward of the Windsor Castle. One minute's 
 scrutiny convinced him that it was the pirate, who, not 
 having been expeditious in trimming his sails, laid in irons, 
 as seamen term it, heeUng over to the blast. The Windsor 
 Castle was then running free, at the rate of four miles an 
 hour. 
 
 " Starboard the helm — all hands to board — steady so. 
 Be smart, my lads — it's the pirate • — port a little. Hur- 
 rah ! my lads — be quick, and she's all our own. Quarter- 
 master, my sword — quick!" 
 
 The crew, who were all on deck, snatched their cutlesseb 
 
 A A 2
 
 356 NEWTON FORSTEH ; 
 
 from the capstern-head, in which they were inserted, and 
 before three minutes elapsed, during which the pirate had 
 not time to extricate himself from his difficulty, were all 
 ready for the service. They were joined by the Flemish 
 sailors belonging to the neutral vessel, who very deliberately 
 put their hands in their breeches-pockets and pulled out 
 their knives, about as long as a carpenter's two-foot rule, 
 preferring this weapon to any thing else. 
 
 Monsieur de Fontanges, bursting with impatience, stood 
 with Newton at the head of the men. When the collision 
 of the two vessels took place, the AVindsor Castle, conned 
 so as not to run down the pirate, but to sheer alongside, 
 stove in the bulwarks of the other, and carried away her 
 topmasts, which, drawn to windward by the pressure on the 
 back-stays, fell over towards the Windsor Castle, and, en- 
 tangling with her rigging, prevented the separation of the 
 two vessels. 
 
 " No quarter, my friends! " cried Monsieur de Fontanges, 
 ■who darted on board of the pirate vessel at the head of some 
 men near the main-rigging, while Newton and the remainder, 
 equally active, poured down upon his quarter. 
 
 Such had been the rapidity of the junction, and such the 
 impetuosity of the attack, that most of the pirates had not 
 had time to arm themselves, which, considering the su- 
 periority of their numbers, rendered the conquest more 
 equal. A desperate struggle was the result ; the attacked 
 party neither expecting, demanding, nor receiving quarter. 
 It was blow for blow, wound for wound, death to one or 
 both. Every inch of the deck was disputed, and not an 
 inch obtained until it reeked with blood. The voices of 
 Newton and Monsieur de Fontanges, encouraging their 
 men, were answered by another voice — that of the captain 
 of the pirates, which had its due effect upon the otlier party, 
 which rallied at its sound. Newton, even in the hurry and 
 excitement of ba;ttle, could not help thinking to himself that 
 he had heard that voice before. The English seamen gained 
 but little ground, so obstinate was the resistance. The pi- 
 rates fell ; but, as they lay on the deck, they either raised 
 their exhausted arms to strike one last blow of vengeance 
 before their life's blood had been poured out, or seized ui>on
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 357 
 
 their antagonists with their teeth in their expiring agonies. 
 But a party, who, from the seclateness of their carriage, had 
 hitherto been ahnost neutral, now forced their way into the 
 conflict. These were the Flemisli seamen, with their long 
 snick-a-snee knives, which they used with as much imper- 
 turbbility as a butcher professionally employed. They had 
 gained tlie main rigging of the vessel, and, ascending it, had 
 passed over by the catharpins, and descended with all the 
 deliberation of bears on the other side, by %vhich tranquil 
 manoeuvre the pirates were taken in the flank ; and, huddled 
 as they were together, the knives of the Flemings proved 
 much more effective than the weapons opposed to them. 
 The assistance of the Flemings was hailed with a shout 
 from the English seamen, who rallied, and increased their 
 efforts. Newton's sword had just been passed through the 
 body of a tall powerful man, who had remained uninjured 
 in the front of the opposing party since the commencement 
 of the action, when his fall discovered to Newton's view the 
 captain of the vessel, whose voice had been so often heard, 
 but Avho had hitherto been concealed from his sight by the 
 athletic form which had just fallen by his hand. What 
 was his astonishment and his indignation when he found 
 himself confronted by one whom he had long imagined to 
 have been summoned to ansAver for his crimes — his former 
 inveterate enemy, Jackson ! 
 
 Jackson appeared to be no less astonished at the recogni- 
 tion of Newton, whom he had supposed to have perished 
 on the sand-bank. Both mechanically called each other by 
 name, and both sprung forward. The blow of Newton's 
 sword was warded off by the miscreant ; but at the same 
 moment that of Monsieur de Fontanges was passed through 
 his body to the hilt. Newton had just time to witness the 
 fall of Jackson, when a tomahawk descended on his head ; 
 his senses failed him, and he laid among the dead upon the 
 deck. 
 
 There was a shriek, a piercing shriek heard when Newton 
 fell. It passed the lips of one who had watched, with 
 an anxiety too intense to be pourtrayed, the issue of the 
 conflict ; — it was from Isabel, who had quitted the cabin 
 at the crash occasioned by the collision of the two vessels, 
 A A 3
 
 S58 NEWTON forster; 
 
 and had remained upon the poop " spectatress of the fight." 
 There were no fire arms used ; no time for preparation had 
 been allowed. There had been no smoke to conceal — all 
 had been fairly presented to her aching sight. Yes ! ther<^ 
 she had remained, her eye fixed upon Newton Forster, as 
 at the head of his men, he slowly gained the deck of the 
 contested vessel. Not one word did she utter ; but, with 
 her lips wide apart from intensity of feeling, she watched 
 his progress through the strife, her eye fixed — immoveably 
 fixed upon the spot where his form was to be seen ; hope 
 buoyant, as she saw his arm raised and his victims fall — 
 heart sinking, as the pirate sword aimed at a life so dear. 
 There she stood hke a statue — as white as beautiful — as 
 motionless as if indeed she had been chiselled from the 
 Parian marble ; and, had it not been from her bosom heav- 
 ing with the agony of tumultuous feeling, you might have 
 imagined that all was as cold within. Newton fell — all 
 her hopes were wrecked — she uttered one wild shriek, and 
 felt no more. 
 
 After the fall of Jackson the pirates were disheartened, 
 and their resistance became more feeble. M, de Fontanges 
 carved his way to the taffrail, and then turned round to kill 
 again. In a few minutes the most feeble-hearted escaped 
 below, leaving the few remaining brave to be hacked to 
 pieces, and the deck of the pirate vessel was in possession 
 of the British crew. Not waiting to recover his breath, 
 M. de Fontanges rushed below to secure his wife. The 
 cabin-door was locked, but yielded to his efforts, and he 
 found her in the arms of her attendants in a state of insen- 
 sibility. A scream of horror at the sight of his bloody 
 sword, and another of joy at the recognition of their master 
 was followed up vi^ith the assurance that Madame had only 
 fainted. M. de Fontanges took his wife in his arms, and 
 carried her on deck, where, with the assistance of the sea- 
 men, he removed her on board of the Windsor Castle, and 
 in a short time had the pleasure to witness her recovery. 
 Their first endearments over, there was an awkward ques- 
 tion to put to a wife. After responding to her caresses, 
 M. de Fontanges inquired, with an air of anxiety very re- 
 inaxkahle in a Frenchman, how she had been treated. " 12
 
 OB, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 369 
 
 n'y a pas de mal, mon ami," replied Madame de Fontanges. 
 This was a Jesuitical sort of answer^ and M. de Fontanges 
 required further particulars. " Elle avoit temporisee" 
 with the ruffian, with the faint hope of that assistance 
 which had so opportunely and unexpectedly arrived. M. 
 de Fontanges was satisfied with his wife's explanation ; 
 and such being the case, what passed between Jackson and 
 Madame de Fontanges can be no concern of the reader's. 
 As for Mimi and Charlotte, they made no such assertion ; 
 but, when questioned, the poor girls burst into tears, and, 
 calling the captain and first-lieutenant of the pirate bar- 
 barians, and every epithet they could think of, complained 
 bitterly of the usage which they had received. 
 
 We left Xewton floored (as Captain Oughton would have 
 said) on the deck of the pirate vessel, and Isabel in a swoon 
 on the poop of the Windsor Castle. They were both taken 
 up, and then taken down, and recovered according to the 
 usual custom in romances and real life. Isabel was the 
 first to come to, because, I presume, a blow on the heart is 
 not quite so serious as a blow on the head. Fortunately 
 for Newton, the tomahawk had only glanced along the 
 temple, not injuring the skull, although it stunned him, 
 and detached a very decent portion of his scalp, which had 
 to be replaced. A lancet brought him to his senses, and 
 the surgeon pronounced his wound not to be dangerous, 
 provided that he remained quiet. 
 
 At first Newton acquiesced with the medical advisei-, but 
 an hour or two afterwards a circumstance occurred, which 
 nad such a resuscitating effect, that, weak as he was with 
 the loss of blood, he would not resign the command of the 
 ship, but gave his orders relative to the captured vessel, 
 and the securing of the prisoners, as if nothing had occurred. 
 What had contributed so much to the recovery of Newton, 
 was simply tliis, that somehow or another Mrs. Enderby 
 left him for a few minutes tete a tete with Isabel Revel ; 
 and, during those few minutes, somehow or another, a very 
 interesting scene occurred, which I have no time just now 
 to describe. It ended, however, somehow or another, in 
 the parties plighting their troth. As I said before, love and 
 murder are very good friends ; and a cl'jOp from a coma- 
 
 A A 4
 
 S6'0 NEWTON forster; 
 
 hawk was but a prelude for the descent of Love, with 
 " healing on his wings." 
 
 The Windsor Castle lost five men killed and eleven 
 wounded in this hard contest. Three of the Flemings 
 were also wounded. The pirate had suffered more severely. 
 Out of a crew of seventy-five men, as no quarter had been 
 given, there remained but twenty-six, who had escaped 
 and secreted themselves below, in the hold of the vessel. 
 These were put in irons under the half-deck of the Windsor 
 Castle, to be tried upon their arrival in England. As I 
 may as well dispose of them at once, they Avere all sen- 
 tenced to death by Sir William Scott, who made a very 
 impressive speech upon the occasion ; and most of them 
 were hanged on the bank of the Thames. The polite valet 
 of the Marquis de Fontanges hired a wherry, and escorted 
 Mademoiselles Mimi and Charlotte to witness the "bar- 
 bares" (tenghng in their chains; and the sooty young ladies 
 returned, much gratified with their interesting excursion. 
 
 It will be necessary to account for the re-appearance of 
 Jackson. The reader may recollect that he made sail in the 
 boat, leaving Newton on the island which they had gained 
 after the brig had been run on shore and wrecked. When 
 the boat came floating down with the tide, bottom up, 
 Newton made sure that Jackson had been upset and 
 drowned ; instead of which, he had been picked up by a 
 Providence schooner ; and the boat having been allowed 
 to go adrift with the main-sheet belayed to the pin, had 
 been upset by a squall, and had floated down with the cur- 
 rent to the sand-bank where Newton was standing in the 
 water. Jackson did not return to England, but had entered 
 on board of a Portuguese slave- vessel, and had continued 
 some time employed in this notorious traffic, which tends 
 so much to demoralise and harden the heart. After several 
 voyages, he headed a mutiny, murdered the captain and 
 those who were not a party to the scheme, and commenced 
 a career of piracy, which had been very successful, from 
 the superior sailing of the vessel, and the courage of the 
 hardened villains he had collected under his command.
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. S6l 
 
 CHArXER. XIII. 
 
 Hopes of all passions, most befrieiul us hero ; 
 
 Joy lins her tears, and Transport has her death : 
 
 Hoik?, like a cordial, innocent, tho' strong, 
 
 Man's heart at once inspirits and serenes ; 
 
 Nor makes him ))ay his wisdom for his joys. 
 
 'Tis all our present state can safely bear : 
 
 Health to the frame and vigor to the mind. 
 
 And to the modest eye, chastised delight, 
 
 Like the fair summer evening, mild and sweet, 
 
 'Tis man's full cup — his paradise below. YouNO. 
 
 With what feelings of delight did Newton Forster walk 
 the deck of the "Windsor Castle, as she scudded hefoie a 
 fine breeze across the Bay of Biscay ! His happiness in 
 anticipation was so great, that at times he trembled lest the 
 cup should be dashed from his lips ; and at the same time 
 that he thanked God for blessings received, he offered up 
 his prayer that his prospects might not be blighted by tlis- 
 appointment. How happy did he feel when he escorted 
 Isabel on deck, anil walked with her during the fine sum- 
 mer evenings, communicating those hopes and fears, re- 
 curring to the past, or anticipating the future, till midnight 
 warned them of the rapidity with which time had flown 
 away ! The pirate vessel, which had been manned by the 
 crew of the neutral and part of the ship's company of the 
 Windsor Castle, under charge of the fourth-mate, sailed 
 round and round them, until at last the Channel was en- 
 tered, and, favoured with a westerly breeze, the Windsor 
 Castle and her prize anchored in the Downs. Here Mrs, 
 Enderby and Isabel quitted the ship, and Newton received 
 orders to proceed round to the river. Before the Windsor 
 Castle had anchored, the newspapers were put into his 
 hands containing a report of the two actions, and he had 
 the gratification of acknowledging that his countrymen 
 were not niggardly in the encomiums upon his meritorious 
 conduct. 
 
 Newton presented himself to the Court of Directors, who 
 confirmed his rank, and promised him the command of the 
 first ship which was brought forward, with flattering com-
 
 36*2 NEWTON FOBSTER ; 
 
 mendations for his gallantry in protecting property of so 
 much value. Newton took his leave of the august Leaden- 
 hall boards and hastened to his uncle's house. The door 
 was opened by a servant who did not know him : Newton 
 passed him, and ran up to the drawing-room, where he 
 found Amber in company with Wilham Aveleyn, who was 
 reading to her the despatch containing the account of the 
 action with Surcoeuf. 
 
 Amber sprung into his arms. She had grown into a tall 
 girl of nearly fifteen, budding into womanhood and beauty ; 
 promising perfection, although not yet attained to it. 
 WiUiam Aveleyn was also nearly half a foot taller ; and a 
 blush which suffused his handsome face at being surprised 
 alone with Amber, intimated that the feelings of a man 
 were superseding those of boyhood. 
 
 " Where is my mother?" inquired Newton. 
 
 " She is not at home, dear Newton," replied Amber ; 
 " she walked out with your father. They are both well." 
 
 " And my uncle } " 
 
 " Quite well, and most anxious to see you. He talks of 
 nobody but you, and of nothing but your actions, which we 
 were just reading about when you camt in. Pray Captain 
 Newton, may I inquire after your French friends ? What 
 has become of them ? " 
 
 " They are at Sablonnieres hotel, Miss Amber ; they 
 have obtained their parole at the Alien-office." 
 
 The conversation was interrupted by the return of 
 Newton's father and mother, and shortly afterward Mr. 
 John Forster made his appearance. After the first greet- 
 ing and congratulations were over, — 
 
 "Well,- Newton," observed Nicholas, "so you beat off 
 a pirate, I hear." 
 
 " No, my dear father, we boarded one." 
 
 "Ah! very true; I recollect — and you kiUed Surcoeuf." 
 
 " No, father, only beat him off"." 
 
 " So it was; I recollect now. — Brother John, isn't i6 
 almost dinner-time ? " 
 
 " Yes, brother Nicholas, it is; and I'm not sorry for it. 
 Mr. William Aveleyn, perhaps you'd like to wash your
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 
 
 368 
 
 hands ? A lad's paws are never the worse for a little clean 
 •water." 
 
 William Aveleyn blushed : his dignity was hurt : but he 
 had lately been very intimate at Mr. Forster's, and he there- 
 fore walked out to comply with the recommendation. 
 
 " Well, brother Nicholas, what have you been doing all 
 day ? " 
 
 " Doing all day^ brother ? really^ I do n't exactly know. 
 My dear," said Nicholas, turning to his wife, " what have 
 I been doing all day ? " 
 
 " To the best of my recollection," replied Mrs. Forster, 
 smiling, " you have been asking when dinner would be 
 ready." 
 
 ''Uncle Nicholas," said Amber, "you promised to buy 
 me a skein of blue silk." 
 
 Did I, my dear ? , Well, so I did, I declare. I 'm very 
 sorry — dear me, I forgot, I did buy it. I passed by a 
 shop where the windows were full of it, and it brought it 
 to my mind, and I did buy it. It cost — what was it, it 
 cost?" 
 
 " Oh ! I know what it cost," replied Amber. •' I gave 
 you three-pence to pay for it. Where is it? '' 
 
 " If I recollect, it cost seven shillings and six-pence," 
 replied Nicholas, pulling out, not a skein of blue silk, but 
 a yard of blue sarsenet. 
 
 " Now, papa, do look here ! Uncle Nicholas, I never 
 ■will give you a commission again. Is it not provoking ? 
 I have seven shillings and six-pence to pay for a yard of 
 blue sarsenet, which 1 do not want. Uncle Nicholas, you 
 really are very stupid," 
 
 " Well, my dear, I suppose I am. I heard William 
 Aveleyn say the same, when I came into the room this 
 morning, because — let me see " 
 
 " You heard him say nothing, uncle," interrupted 
 Amber, colouring. 
 
 " Yes, I recollect now — how stupid I was to come in 
 when I was not wanted ! " 
 
 " Humph ! " said John Forster ; and dinner was an.r 
 nounced. 
 
 Since the recognition of Mrs. Forster by her husband.
 
 S(34 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 slie had presided at her hrother-in-law's table. The dinner 
 provided was excellent, and was done ample justice to by 
 all parties, especially Nicholas, whose appetite appeared to 
 increase from idleness. Since Newton had left England 
 he had remained a pensioner upon his brother; and, by 
 dint of constant exertion on the part of Mrs. Forster, had 
 been drilled out of his propensity of interfering with either 
 the watch or the spectacles. This was all that was required 
 by Mr. John Forster ; and Nicholas walked up and down 
 the house, like a tame cat, minding nobody, and nobody 
 paying any attention to him. 
 
 After dinner the ladies retired, and shortly afterwards 
 William Aveleyn quitted the room. 
 
 Newton thought this to be a good opportunity to ac- 
 quaint his uncle with his attachment to Miss Revel, and 
 the favourable result. Mr. John Forster heard him with- 
 out interruption. 
 
 " Very nice girl, I dare say, nephew, but you are too 
 young to marry. You can't marry and go to sea. Follow 
 your profession, Newton; speculate in opium — I'll find 
 the means." 
 
 " I trust, sir, that I never should speculate in marrying ; 
 but, liad I acted on that plan, this would prove the best 
 speculation of the two. Miss Revel has a very large for- 
 tune." 
 
 " So much the worse : a man should never be indebted 
 to his wife for his money — they never forget it. I 'd 
 rather you had fallen in love with a girl without a shilling." 
 
 " Well, sir, when I first fell in love she had not a six- 
 pence." 
 
 " Humph ! — well, nephew, that may be very true j 
 but, as I said before, follow your profession." 
 
 '' Marriage will not prevent my so doing, uncle. Most 
 captains of Indiamen are married men." 
 
 " More fools they ! leaving their wives at home, to be 
 flattered and fooled by the Lord knows who. A wife, 
 nephew is a woman." 
 
 " I hope that mine will be one, sir," replied Newton, 
 laughing. 
 
 "Nephew, once for aU, I don't approve of your marry-
 
 on, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 365 
 
 ing now — that 's understood. It 's my wish that you fol- 
 low your profession. I 11 be candid with you ; I have left 
 you the heir to most of my fortune ; but — I can alter my 
 will. If you marry this girl I shall do so." 
 
 " Alter your will, brother ? " said Nicholas, who had 
 been attentive to the conversation. " Why, who have you 
 to leave your money to, except to Newton ? " 
 
 "To hospitals — to pay off the national debt — to any 
 thing. Perhaps 1 may leave it all to that little girl, who 
 already has come in for a slice." 
 
 "But, brother," replied Nicholas, "^ will that be just, to 
 leave all your money away from the family ? 
 
 " Just, yes, brother Nicholas, quite just. A man's will 
 is his will. If he makes it so as to satisfy the wishes or 
 expectations of others, it is no longer his will, but theirs. 
 Nephew, as I said before, if you marry against my con- 
 sent, I shall alter my will." 
 
 " I am sorry, sir, very sorry, that you should be dis- 
 pleased with me ; but I am affianced to this lady, and no 
 worldly consideration will induce me not to fulfil an en- 
 gagement upon which, indeed, my future happiness depends. 
 I have no. claim upon you, sir ; on the contrary, I have in- 
 curred a large debt of gratitude, from your kind protection. 
 Any thing else you would require of me — — " 
 
 "Humph! that's always the case ; any thing else ex- 
 cept what is requested. Brother Nicholas, do me the favour 
 to go up stairs ; I wish to speak with my nephcAV alone." 
 
 " Well, brother John, certainly, if you wish it — if you 
 and Newton have secrets ; " and Nicholas rose from his 
 diair. 
 
 " Surely, sir," observed Newton, not pleased at the 
 abrupt dismissal of his father, " we can have no secrets to 
 which my father may not be a party.' 
 
 " Yes, but I have, nephew. Your father is my brother^ 
 and I take the liberty wita my brother, if you like that 
 better — not with your father." 
 
 In the mean time Nicliolas had stalked out of the room. 
 
 " Nephew," continued Mr. John Forster, as the door 
 closedj " I have stated to you my wish that you should not 
 marry this young woman ; and I will now explain my
 
 S(56 NEWTON FORSTFR ; 
 
 reasons. The girl left in my charge by my brother Edward 
 has become the same to me as a daughter. I intend that 
 you shall make three or four voyages as captain of an India- 
 man ; then you shall marry her, and become the heir to my 
 whole fortune. Now you understand me. May I ask, what 
 are your objections ? '' 
 
 " None, sir, but what I have already stated — my at- 
 tachment and engagement to another person." 
 
 " Is that all ? " 
 
 " Is it not enough ? " 
 
 " It appears that this young woman has entered into an 
 engagement on board ship, without consulting her friends." 
 
 " She has no father, sir. She is of age, and independent." 
 
 " You have done the same." 
 
 " I grant it, sir ; but even were I inclined, could I, in 
 honour or honesty, retract .'' " 
 
 " Humph ! " 
 
 '' Perhaps, sir, if you were acquainted with the young 
 lady you might not be so averse to the match." 
 
 "Perhaps, if I saw with your eyes, I might not; but 
 that is not likely to be the case. Old men are a little blind 
 and a little obstinate. After toiling through life to amass 
 a fortune, they wish to have their own way of disposing of 
 it. It is the only return they can receive for their labour. 
 However, nephew, you will act as you please. As I said 
 oefore, if you marry against my consent, I shall alter my 
 will. Now, empty the bottle, and we 'U go up stairs." 
 
 CHAPTER XIV 
 
 And, Betty, give this cheek a little red. FoFE. 
 
 The departure of Isabel in the Windsor Castle, so im- 
 mediately after the death of Colonel Revel, prevented her 
 communicating to her mother the alteration which had 
 taken place in her circumstances, and her intended return
 
 OK, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 36? 
 
 to England. The first intimation received by Mrs. Revel 
 was from a hurried note sent on shore by a pilot-boat ofF 
 Falmouth, stating Isabel's arrival in the Channel, and her 
 anticipation of soon embracing her mother. Isabel did not 
 enter into any particulars, as she neither had time, nor did 
 she feel assured that the letter would ever reach its destina- 
 tion. 
 
 The letter did however come to hand two days before 
 Isabel and Mrs. Enderby arrived at the metropolis, much 
 to the chagrin of Mrs. Revel, who imagined that her 
 daughter had returned pennyless, to be a sharer of her 
 limited income. She complained to Mr. Heaviside, who 
 as usual stepped in, not so much from any regard for Mrs. 
 Revel, but to while away the time of a far niente old bat- 
 chelor. 
 
 " Only think, Mr. Heaviside," said the lady, who was 
 stretched on a sofa, supported on pillows, " Isabel' has re- 
 turned from India. Here is a letter I have just received, 
 signed by her maiden name ! Her sisters so well married 
 too ! Surely she might have stayed out with one o£ them ! 
 I wonder how she got the money to pay her passage home ! 
 Dear me ! what shall I do with her ? '' 
 
 '' If 1 may be allowed to see the letter, Mrs. Revel," said 
 the old gentleman 
 
 " Oh, certainly, it's nothing but a note." 
 
 Mr. Heaviside read the contents. 
 
 " There is very little in it indeed, Mrs. Revel ; not a 
 word about the colonel, or why she left India. Perhaps the 
 colonel may be dead.'' 
 
 " Then she might have gone to live with one of her sis- 
 ters, Mr. Heaviside ! " 
 
 *' But perhaps he may have left her some property." 
 
 •■'And do you, a sensible man, think that if such was 
 the case, my daughter would not have mentioned it in her 
 note } Impossible, Mr. Heaviside ! " 
 
 " She may intend to surprise you, Mrs. Revel." 
 
 " She has surprised me," replied the lady, falling back 
 upon the piUows. 
 
 <■< Well, Mrs. Revel, you will soon ascertain the facts. 
 I wish you a good morning, and will pay my devoirs in «
 
 368 
 
 NEWTON FORSTER 
 
 day or two to inquire after your health, and hear what has 
 taken place." 
 
 To defray the expenses attending the " consignment " 
 of the three Miss Revel's to India, Mrs. Revel had con- 
 sented to borrow money, insuring her life as a security to 
 the parties who provided it. Her unprincipled husband 
 took this opportunity of obtaining a sum which amounted 
 to nioi-e than half her marriage settlement, as Mrs. Revel 
 signed the papers laid before her without examining their 
 purport. When her dividends were become due this trea- 
 chery was discovered, and Mrs. Revel found herself reduced 
 to a very narrow income, and wholly deserted by her hus- 
 band, who knew that he had no chance of obtaining further 
 means of carrying on his profligate career. His death in a 
 duel, which we have before mentioned, took place a few 
 months after the transaction, and Mrs. Revel was attacked 
 with that painful disease, a cancer, so deeply seated as to be 
 incurable. Still she was the same frivolous, heartless being ; 
 still alie sighed for pleasure, and to move in those circles in 
 which she had been received at the time of her marriage. 
 But, as her income diminished, so did her acquaintances 
 fall off, and at the period of Isabel's return, with the excep- 
 iion of Mr. Heaviside, and one or two others, she was suf- 
 fered to pine away in seclusion. 
 
 Isabel Avas greeted with querulous indifference until the 
 explanation of the first ten minutes ; then, as an heiress, 
 with the means as well as the desire of contributing to her 
 mother's comforts, all was joy and congratulation. Her 
 incurable disease was for the time forgotten, and although 
 pain would occasionally draw down the muscles of her face, 
 as soon as the pang^was over, so was the remembrance of 
 her precarious situation. Wan and wasted as a spectre, 
 she indulged in anticipation of again mixing with the fashion- 
 able world, and talked of chaperoning Isabel to private par- 
 ties and public amusements, when she was standing at the 
 brink of eternity. Isabel sighed as she listened to her mo- 
 ther, and observed her attenuated frame ; occasionally she 
 would refer to her mother's state of health, and attempt to 
 bring her to that serious state of mind which her awful 
 situation demanded ; but in vain : Mrs, Revel would evade
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SERVICE. 
 
 369 
 
 the subject. Before a week had passed she had set up an 
 equipage, and called upon many of her quondam friends 
 to announce the important intelligence of her daughter's 
 wealth. Most of them liad long before given orders not 
 to be " at home to Mrs. Revel." The few to whom, from 
 the remissness of their porters, she obtained admittance, 
 were satisfied at their servants' negligence when they heard 
 the intelhgence which Mrs. Revel had to communicate. 
 " They were so delighted ; Isabel was always such a sweet 
 girl ; hoped that Mrs. Revel would not be such a recluse 
 as she had been, and that they should prevail upon her to 
 »me to their parties!" An heiress is of no little conse- 
 |uence when there are so many younger brothers to provide 
 or ; and, before a short month had flown away, Mrs. Revel, 
 vO her delight, found that the cards and invitations of no 
 inconsiderable portion of the beau monde covered the table 
 of her confined drawing-room. To Isabel, who perceived 
 tliat her mother was sinking every day under the exertion 
 she went through, all this was a source of deep regret. It 
 occurred to her that to state her engagements with Newton 
 Forster would have some effect in preventing this indirect 
 suicide. She took an opportunity of confiding it to her 
 mother, who listened to her with astonishment. 
 
 " Isabel ! what do I hear } What ! that young man who 
 calls here so often } You, that can command a title, rank, 
 and fashion, engage yourself to a captain of an Indiaman ! 
 Recollect, Isabel, that now your poor father is dead, I am 
 your legal protector; and without my permission I trust 
 you have too much sense of filial duty to think of marry- 
 ing. How you could venture to forni an engagement with- 
 out consulting me is quite astonishing ! Depend upon it, 
 I shall not give my consent ; therefore, think no more 
 about it." 
 
 How often do we thus see people, who make no scruples 
 of neglecting their duties, as eagerly assert their responsi- 
 bility, when it suits their convenience. 
 
 Isabel might have retorted, but she did not. In few 
 words, she gave her mother to understand that she was de- 
 cided, and then retired to dress for a splendid ball, at which, 
 
 B B
 
 S70 N i:WTON I'-ORSTER ; 
 
 more to please her mother than herself she liad consented 
 to be present. 
 
 It was the first party of any consequence to which Mrs. 
 Revel had been invited. She considered it as her re-entree 
 into the fashionable world, and the presentation of lier 
 daughter ; she would not have missed it for any consider- 
 ation. That morning she had felt more pain than usual, 
 and had been obliged to have recourse to restoratives ; but 
 once more to join the gay and fashionable throng — the 
 very idea braced her nerves, rendered her callous to suffer- 
 ing, and indifferent to disease. 
 
 '' I think," said Mrs. Revel to her maid — " I think/' 
 said she, panting, " you may lace me a little closer, Martyn." 
 
 " Indeed, madam, the holes nearly meet ; it will hurt 
 your side." 
 
 " No, no, I feel no pain this evening — there, that will 
 do." 
 
 The lady's maid finished her task, and left the room. 
 Mrs. Revel rouged her wan cheeks, and, exhausted with fa- 
 tigue and pain, tottered to an easy chair, that she might 
 recover herself a little before she went down stairs. 
 
 In a quarter of an hour Isabel, who had waited for the 
 services of Martyn, entered her mother's room, to announce 
 that she was ready. Her mother, who was sitting in the 
 chair, leaning backwards, answered her not. Isabel went 
 up to her, and looked her in the face — she was dead! 
 
 CHAPTER XV. 
 
 My dearest wife was like this maid. 
 And such my daughter might have been. 
 
 The reader may be surprised at the positive and dictatorial 
 language of Mr John Forster, relative to Newton's mar- 
 riage, as detailed in a former chapter ; but, as Mr. John
 
 OR, THE MERCHANT SEKVICE. 371 
 
 Forster truly observed, all the recompense which he had to 
 expect for a Hfe of exertion was to dispose of the fruits of his 
 labour according to his own will. This he felt, and he con- 
 sidered it unreasonable that what he supposed a boyish 
 attachment on the part of Newton was to overthrow all his 
 preconcerted arrangements. Had Mr. Forster been able to 
 duly appreciate the feelings of his nephew, he probably 
 would not have been so decided ; but Love had never been 
 able to establish himself as an inmate of his breast. His 
 life had been a life of toil. Love associates with idleness 
 and ease. Mr. Forster was kind and cordial to his nephew 
 as before, and the subject was not again renewed ; never- 
 theless, he had made up his mind, and having stated that 
 he would alter his will, such was his intention, provided 
 that his nephew did not upon mature reflection accede to 
 his wishes. Newton once more enjoyed the society of 
 Isabel, to whom he imparted all that had occurred. " I do 
 not wish to play the prude," answered Isabel, " by denying 
 that I am distressed at your uncle's decision ; to say that I 
 will never enter into his family without having received his 
 consent, is saying more than my feehngs will bear out; 
 but I must and will say, that I shall be most unwilling so 
 to do. We must, therefore, as Madame de Fontanges did 
 with tlie pirate captain, temporise, and I trust we shall be 
 as successful." Newton, more rational than most young 
 men in love, agreed with Isabel on the propriety of the 
 measure, and, satisfied with each other's attachment, they 
 were by no means in a hurry to precipitate their marriage. 
 It may be recollected that Newton Forster felt convinced 
 that the contents of the trunk which he picked up at sea, 
 when mate of the coasting vessel, was the property of the 
 Marquis de Fontanges, During their passage home in the 
 Windsor Castle, he had renewed the subject to M. de 
 Fontanges, and from the description which he gave from 
 memory, the latter appeared to be of the same opinion. 
 The conversation had not been revived until some time 
 after their arrival in England, when Newton, anxious to 
 restore the articles, desired M. de Fontanges to communi- 
 cate with the marquis, and request that he would appoint 
 a day upon which he would call at his uncle's and identify
 
 872 NEWTON FOKSTEU ; 
 
 the property. The marquis, who had never been informed 
 by M. de Fontanges, that any supposed relics of his lost 
 wife remained, sighed at the memory of his buried hap- 
 piness — buried in that vast grave, which defrauds the 
 earth of its inherent rights — and consented to call upon 
 the ensuing day. When the marquis arrived, accompanied 
 by M. and Madame de Fontanges, he was>received in the 
 drawing-room by Mr. John Forster, who had brought from 
 his chamber the packet in question, which had remained 
 locked up in the iron safe ever since Newton had first 
 committed it to his charge. After their introduction to 
 each other, the marquis observed, in English — 
 
 " I am giving you a great deal of trouble ; unavailing 
 indeed ; for, allowing that the articles should prove to be 
 mine, the sight of them must be a source of renewed misery." 
 
 " Sir," replied Mr. John Forster, " the property does 
 not belong to my nephew, and he has very properly re- 
 served it until he could find out the legal owner. If the 
 property is yours, we are bound to deliver it into your 
 hands. There is an inventory attached to it," continued 
 the old lawyer, putting on his spectacles, and reading, "one 
 diamond ring — but perhaps it wovdd be better that I should 
 open the packet." 
 
 '^' Will you permit me to look at the diamond ring, sir? " 
 observed M. de Fontanges, "The sight of that will 
 identify the whole.'* 
 
 " There it is, sir," replied Mr. John Forster. 
 
 " It is, indeed, that of my poor sister-in-law !" said 
 M. de Fontanges, taking it up to the marquis. "^ My bro- 
 ther, it is Louise's ring!'' 
 
 " It is," cried the marquis, passionately, " the ring that 
 T placed in the centre of her corbeille de mariage. Alas.' 
 where is the hand which graced it.^" and the marquis re- 
 treated to the sofa, and covered his face. 
 
 " We have no occasion then to proceed further," observed 
 Mr. John Forster, with emotion. " The other articles you 
 of course recognise .'' " 
 
 " I do," replied Monsieur de Fontanges. " My brother 
 had taken his passage in the same vessel, but was counter- 
 manded. Before he had time to select all his own baggage.
 
 OR, THE MKRCHANT SERVICE. 373 
 
 which was mixed with that of his wife, the ship was blown 
 out to sea, and proceeded on her voyage. These orders of 
 merit were left with her jewels.'' 
 
 " I observe/' said the old lawyer, " which I did not 
 when Newton entrusted the packet to my charge, that the 
 linen has not all the same marks ; tliat of the adult is 
 marked L. de M., while that which belonged to the child 
 is marked J. de F. Was it the marquis's child .? " 
 
 '^' It was ; the linen of the mother was some belonging 
 to her previous to her marriage. The maiden name was 
 Louise de Montmorenci ; that of the child has the initials 
 of its name, Julie de Fontanges." 
 
 " Humph ! I have my reasons for asking that question,'.' 
 replied the old lawyer. " Newton, do me the favour to 
 step to my chambers and open the safe. You will find in 
 it, on the right hand side, another small bundle of linen : 
 bring it here. Stop, Newton, blow the dust out of the 
 pipe of the key before you put it in, and be careful that it 
 is well inserted before you turn it, or you may strain the 
 wards. In all other points, you may be as quick as you 
 please. My Lord Marquis, will you allow me to offer you 
 some refreshment.'' — a glass of wine will be of service. 
 Brother Nicholas, do me the favour to call Amber." 
 Newton and Nicholas both departed on their respective 
 missions. Amber made her appearance. 
 
 " Papa," said Amber, " do you want me ? " 
 
 " Yes, my dear," said Mr. Forster, handing her the 
 keys, " go down to the cellaret and bring up some wine. 
 I do not wish the servants to come in just now." 
 
 Amber reappeared with a small tray. She first handed 
 it to the marquis, who roused at her voice. 
 
 " Papa requests that you will take some wine, sir. It 
 will be of service to you." 
 
 The marquis, who had looked earnestly in her face when 
 she had spoken, took the wine, and drinking it off", bowed 
 as he replaced the glass. He then sunk back on the sofa. 
 
 When the rap at the door announced the return of New- 
 ton, Mr. John Forster requested M. de Fontanges, in alow 
 voice, to follow him, and directing Newton, whom they
 
 S74' NEWTON FOKSTER. 
 
 met on the stairs, to return, they proceeded to the dining- 
 parlour, 
 
 " I have requested you to come down, sir," said Mr. 
 John Forster, " that I might not, without heing certain, 
 raise hopes in your brother the marquis, which, if not 
 realised, would crtate bitter feelings of disappointment ; 
 but I remarked the initials on the Hnen of the child ; and 
 if my memory, which is not very bad, fails me not, we 
 shall find coi-responding ones in the packet now before 
 us ;" and the old lawyer opened the bundle and displayed 
 the contents, which proved to be marked as he had surmised. 
 
 " Most true," replied Monsieur de Fontanges. " They 
 are the same, and of course part of the property which 
 was picked up." 
 
 " Yes ; but not picked up at the same time, or at the 
 same spot, or by the same person. Those above stairs were, 
 as you know, picked up by my nephew ; these by a brother, 
 who is since dead ; and in these clothes an infant was also 
 washed upon the beach." 
 
 '" His child !" exclaimed Monsieur de Fontanges 
 " Where was it buried ? " 
 
 " The child was restored to life, and is still living." 
 
 " If it is," replied Monsieur de Fontanges, " it can be 
 no other than the young lady who just now called you father. 
 The likeness to Madame la Marquise is most astonishing." 
 
 "It is as you suppose, sir," repHed Mr. John Forster. 
 " At my brother's death, he bequeathed the little girl to 
 my protection ; and I trust I have done justice to the de- 
 posit. Indeed, although an alien by blood, she is as dear 
 to me as if she were my own daughter ; and," continued 
 the old lawyer, hesitating a little, '^ although I have the 
 satisfaction of restoring her to her father's arms, it will be 
 a heavy blow to part with her ! When my brother spoke 
 to me on the subject, I told him it was trouble and expense 
 enough to bring up a child of ones own begetting. I 
 little thought at the time how much more I should be vexed 
 at parting with one of another's. However, Avith the 
 bundle she must be returned to the lawful owner. I have 
 one more remark to make, sir. Do me the favour to look
 
 on, THE MEHCHANT SEUVICI!. 375 
 
 at that drawing of my poor brother's, which hangs over 
 the sideboard. Do you recognise the portrait?" 
 
 " Triton ! " cried Alonsieur de Fontanges ; " the dog 
 which I gave my poor sister-in-law !" 
 
 " You are indebted to that dog for the Ufe of your niece . 
 He brought her on shore, and laid her at my brother's feet ; 
 but I have all the documents, which I will send for your 
 perusal. The facts I consider so well established as to 
 warrant a verdict in any court of justice ; and now, sir, 
 I must leave you to make the communication as soon, and, 
 at the sanie time, as cautiously as you please. Newton, 
 send Amber down to me." 
 
 We will pass over the scenes which followed in the 
 dining-parlour and drawing-room. The Marquis de Fon- 
 tanges discovered that he was blessed with a daughter, at 
 the same time that Amber learnt her own history. In a 
 few minutes Amber was led up stairs to the arms of her 
 father, whose tears of sorrow at the loss of his wife were 
 now mingled with those of delight, as he clasped his 
 daughter to his heart. 
 
 " What obligations do I owe to your whole family, my 
 dear friend !" said the marquis to Newton. 
 
 "■ I will not deny it, sir," replied Newton ; " but allow 
 me to observe, that for the recovery of your daughter you 
 are equally indebted to the generosity of your own relatives 
 and your own feeling disposition. Had not Monsieur and 
 Madame de Fontanges protected and assisted me in my 
 distress ; had not you, instead of throwing me into prison, 
 set me at liberty, you never would have known where your 
 daughter was to be found. Had not one of ray uncles 
 hastened to the relief of the vessel in distress, and the 
 other protected yovir little girl after his death, she would 
 not have been now in existence. My gratitude for your 
 kindness induced me to remain by your &hip, and subse- 
 quently to rescue you fvom the pirate, or you would not 
 have now been a prisoner in this country — an evil which, 
 under divine Providence, has been changed to a blessing, 
 by restoring to you your daughter. We have all, I trust, 
 done our duty, and this happy issue is our full reward." 
 
 " Humph !" observed the old lawyer. 
 B B 4
 
 376 NEWTON forstek; 
 
 IHAPTER XVI. 
 
 r'.'Ms tar our chronicle — and now we pause, 
 
 k'liough not for want of matter, but 't is time. BvRON. 
 
 AmbeRj or Julie de Fontanges, as we must now call her, 
 quitted the abode of her kind protector, in such distress, 
 that it was evident she regretted the discovery which had 
 been made. She was too young to be aware of the ad- 
 vantages of high birth, and her removal was for some time 
 a source of unfeigned regret. It appeared to her that nothing 
 could compensate for the separation from her supposed 
 father, who doated on her, from Mrs. Forster, who had 
 watched over her, from Nicholas, who amused her, and from 
 Newton, whom she loved as a brother. But the idea of 
 going to a foreign country, and never seeing them or Wil- 
 liam Aveleyn again, and, though last, not least, to find 
 that she was not an Englishwoman, and in future must not 
 rejoice at their victories over her own nation, occasioned 
 many a burst of tears wlien left alone to her own meditations. 
 It was long before the devotion of her father, and the 
 fascinating attentions of M. and Madame de Fontanges, 
 could induce her to be resigned to her new condition. Mr. 
 John Forster felt his bereavement more deeply than could 
 have been supposed. For many days after the departure of 
 Julie, he seldom spoke, never made his appearance, except 
 at dinner-time, and as soon as the meal was finished hastened 
 to his chambers, where he remained very late. Intense ap- 
 plication was the remedy which he had selected to dispel his 
 care, and fill up the vacuum created by the absence of his 
 Jarhng child. 
 
 "Newton," said he, one evening, as they discussed a 
 bottle of port, " have you considered what I proposed ? I 
 confess to you that I am more than ever anxious for the 
 match ; I cannot part with that dear child, and you can 
 bring her back to me," 
 
 " 1 have reflected, sir ; but the case must be viewed in
 
 Oa, THE MERCHANT SERVIOK. 377 
 
 8 very clifFerent light. You might affiance your adopted 
 daughter at her early age, but the Marquis de Foutanges 
 may not be so inclined ; nay, further, sir, it is not impos- 
 sible that he may dislike the proposed match. lie is of a 
 very noble family." 
 
 " I have thought on that subject," replied Mr. John 
 Forster ; " but our family is as well descended, and quite 
 well enough for any Frenchman, let him be a marquis, or 
 even a duke. Is that the only obstacle you intend to raise 
 — or, if this is removed, will you again plead your attach- 
 ment to another ? " 
 
 " It is the only one which I mean to raise at present, 
 sir. I acknowledge Julie de Fontanges to be a sweet girl, 
 and, as a relation, I have long been much attached to 
 her." 
 
 " Humph !" replied the old lawyer, " I always thought 
 you a sensible lad — we shall see." 
 
 Now, be it observed, that there was a certain degree of 
 the Jesuitical on the part of our friend Newton on this 
 occasion, excusable only from his wish that the mortification 
 of his uncle at the disappointment of his hopes should not 
 De occasioned by any further resistance on his part. 
 
 To M. de Fontanges, who was aware of Newton's at- 
 tachment to Isabel, he had, previous to the discovery which 
 had taken place, communicated the obstacle to his union, 
 raised by the pertinacity of his uncle. After the removal 
 of Julie, M. de Fontanges acquainted his brother with the 
 wishes of Mr. John Forster, and explained to him how 
 much they were at variance with those of Newton. 
 
 The first time that Newton called upon the marquis, the 
 latter shaking him warmly by the hand, said, — " I have 
 been informed, my dear Newton, by my brother, of the 
 awkward predicament in which you are placed by the wish 
 of your uncle that you should marry my Julie when she 
 grows up. Believe me, when I say it, there is no man to 
 whom I would sooner confide the happiness of my daughter, 
 and that no consideration would induce me to refuse you, if 
 you really sought her hand ; but I know your wishes, and 
 your attachment to Miss Revel, therefore be quite easy on 
 the subject. Your uncle made his proposition when Julie
 
 S78 NEWTON KORSTKR ; 
 
 had no father to be consulted ; the case is now different, 
 and, for your sake, I intend, for a time, to injure myself in 
 the opinion of your good relation. I shall assume I trust, 
 what, if ever I had it, would be immediately sacrificed to 
 gratitude — I mean high aristdcratical pride ; and should 
 your uncle make the proposal, refuse it upon the grounds 
 that you are not noble by descent. No one will deny yotrr 
 nobility on any other point. Do you understand me, 
 Newton ? and will my so doing be conformable to your 
 wishes ? " 
 
 " It will. Monsieur le Marquis, and I thank you most 
 sincerely." 
 
 " Then make no objection when he proposes the match a 
 second time ; leave aU the obloquy on my shoulders," said 
 the marquis, smiling. 
 
 This arrangement having been made, it was not sur- 
 prising that Newton heard his uncle's renewal of the 
 proposition with such calmness and apparent acquiescence. 
 
 " We dine with the marquis to-morrow, Newton," ob- 
 served Mr. John Forster ; " I shall take an opportunity 
 after dinner of requesting a few minutes' interview, when 
 I shall put the question to him." 
 
 " Certainly, sir, if you think right," replied Newton. 
 
 " Well, I 'm glad the dear girl has changed that foolish 
 name of Amber. What could possess my brother ! JuUe 
 is very fine, nevertheless; but then she was christened by 
 French people." 
 
 The next day the parties met at dinner. Isabel Revel 
 had been asked ; and, having heard from Madame de Fon- 
 tanges of the plan agreed upon, and anxious to see the old 
 lawyer, she had consented to join the party. The dinner 
 passed off as most dinners do when the viands and wines 
 are good, and every body is inclined to be happy. Isabel 
 was placed next to Mr. Forster, who, without knowing who 
 she was, felt much pleased with the deference and attention 
 of so beautiful a young woman. 
 
 " Newton," said his uncle, when the ladies retired, and 
 the gentlemen packed up their chairs, "wliio was that young 
 lady who sat next to me t "
 
 OU, THE .MERCHANT SEiRVICE. 379 
 
 " The young lady, my dear uncle, whom I did wish to 
 introthice to you as my intended wile — Miss Isabel Revel." 
 
 " Humph! — why, you never spoke to her before dinner, 
 or paid her any common civility ! " 
 
 " You forget, sir, your injunctions, and " 
 
 "That's no reason, nephew, why you should forget 
 common civility. I requested that you would not marry 
 the young lady ; but I never desired you to commit an act 
 of rudenass. She is a very nice young person ; and polite- 
 ness is but a trifle, although marriage is a very serious 
 thing." 
 
 In pursuance of his plans, when the gentlemen rose, Mr. 
 John Forster requested a few minutes' conversation with the 
 marquisj who, bowing politely, showed the way to a small 
 study on the same floor. 
 
 Mr. Forster immediately stated his wish that an engage- 
 ment should be formed between his nephew and Julie de 
 Fontanges. 
 
 " Mr. Forster," replied the marquis, drawing up proudly, 
 •' the obligations I am under to your family are so great, 
 that there are but few pomts in wnich I could refuse you ; 
 and I therefore am quite distressed that, of this proposal^ 
 I am obliged to decline the honour. You may be ig- 
 norant, Mr. Forster, that the family of the De Fontanges 
 is one of the oldest in France ; and, with every respect 
 for you and your nephew, and all gratitude for your 
 kindness, I cannot permit my daughter to form a mes- 
 alliance. 
 
 " A mesalliance ! — humph! I presume, sir, in plain 
 English, it means marrying beneath her rank in life ? " 
 
 The marquis bowed. 
 
 " I beg to observe, sir," said Mr. John Forster, " that 
 our family is a very old one. I can show you our pe- 
 digree. It has lain for some years by the side of your 
 daughter's bundle in the iron safe.'' 
 
 " I have no doubt of the excellence of your family, 
 Mr. Forster. I can only express my deep regret that it 
 is not noble. Excuse me, Mr. Forster; except you can 
 ptore that *'
 
 380 Newton fouster ; 
 
 " Why, I could prove it by purchasing a dozen mar- 
 quifiat es, if I thought proper ! " 
 
 " Granted, Mr. Forster. In our country they are to 
 be purchased ; but we make a great difference betweea 
 the parvenus of tlie present day and the ancienne noblesse" 
 
 " Well, Mr. Marquis, just as you please ; but I con- 
 sider myself quite as good as a French marquis," replied 
 Mr. Forster, in a tone of irritation. 
 
 '' Better than many, I have no doubt ; but still, we 
 draw the line. Noble blood, Mr. Forster." 
 
 " Noble fiddlestick ! Monsieur le Marquis, in this 
 country, and the inhabitants are not fools, we allow money 
 to weigh against rank. It purchases that as it does every 
 thing else, except heaven. Now, Monsieur le Marquis " 
 
 " Excuse me, sir ; no money will purchase the hand of 
 Julie de Fontanges," replied the marquis. 
 
 " Well, then, Monsieur le Marquis, I should think that 
 the obligations you are under in restoring your daughter 
 to your arms " 
 
 " Warrants your asking for her back again, Mr. Forster?'' 
 replied the marquis, haughtily ; " a. labourer might find 
 this diamond solitaire that s now upon my finger. Does 
 it therefore follow that I am to make him a present of it ? " 
 
 ''Humph!" ejaculated Mr.- Forster, much affronted 
 with the comparison. 
 
 " In short, my dear sir, any thing which you or you? 
 family can think of, which it is in our power to grant, 
 wiU make us most happy ; but to sully the blood of the 
 most ancient " 
 
 John Forster would hear no more ; he quitted the rooi» 
 and walked up stairs before the marquis had completed 
 his speech. AV'hen he entered the drawing-room, his 
 countenance plainly expressed his disappointment. Like 
 all men who have toiled for riches, he had formed plans in 
 which he considered his wealth was to command success, 
 and had overlooked every obstacle which might present 
 itself against the completion of his wishes. 
 
 " Newton," said he, as they stood apart near the window, 
 '•' you have been a good lad in not persisting to thwart my 
 views, but that French marquis, with his folly and his
 
 OH, THE niKKCHAN'T SERV7CE S8| 
 
 " ancienne noblesse," has overthrown all my plans. Now. 
 I shall not interfere with yours. Introduce me to Miss 
 what 's her name ; she is a very fine girl, and from what I 
 saw of her during dinner, 1 like her very much." 
 
 Isabel exerted herself to please, and succeeded. Sa- 
 tisfied with his nephew's bhoice, flattered by his previous 
 apparent submission, and disgusted with the marquis, 
 Mr. John Forster thought no more of Mademoiselle de 
 Fontanges. His consent Avas voluntary, and in a short 
 time Isabel Revel changed her name. 
 
 It was about five months after Newton's marriage that 
 he received a letter from the Board, appointing him to the 
 command of a ship. Newton handed the letter over to 
 Mr. Forster. 
 
 " I presume, sir, it is your wish that I should accept 
 the offer.?" 
 
 " What offer?" said the old lawyer, who was reading 
 through a case for counsel's opinions. " Melville — for 
 Madras and China. — Why, Newton, I really do not see 
 any occasion for your going afloat again. There is an old 
 proverb — ' The pitcher that goes often to the well is broken 
 at last.' You 're not tired of your wife already ? " 
 
 " I hope not, sir ; but I thought it might be your 
 wish." 
 
 '^ It 's my wish that you should stay at home. A poor 
 man may go to sea, because he stands a chance to come 
 home rich ; but a man who has money in hand and in 
 prospect, if he goes to sea, he is a fool. Follow your 
 profession as long as you require it, but no longer." 
 
 " Why then do you work so hard, my dear sir," said 
 Isabel, leaning over the old gentleman, and kissing him, 
 in gratitude for his decision. " Surely you can afford to 
 relax a little now ? " 
 
 •' Why do I work so hard, Isabel.''" replied Mr. 
 Forster, looking up at her through his spectacles. " Why, 
 you expect to have a family, do you not .'' " 
 
 Isabel blushed ; tb^ expectation Avas undeniable. 
 
 " ^Vell, then, I presume the children will have no ob- 
 jection to find a few thousands more to be divided among 
 them by-and-bye — will they, daughter?"
 
 382 NEWTON FORSTER ; 
 
 The conversation was interrupted by the entry of a 
 servant with a letter; Mr. Forster broke the seal, and 
 looked at the signature. 
 
 '^ Humph ! from the proud old marquis. ' Very sorry, 
 for a short period, to have fallen in your good opinion — 
 should have rejoiced to have called Newton my son-in- 
 law!' — Humph ! ' Family pride all assumed — Newton's 
 happiness at stake — trust the deceit wiU be pardoned, and 
 a renewal of former intimacy.' Why, Newton, is all this 
 true ? " 
 
 " Ask Isabel, sir," replied, Newton, smiling. 
 
 " Well, then, Isabel, is all this true ? " 
 
 " Ask Newton, sir," rephed Isabel, kissing him. " The 
 fact is, my dear sir, I could not afford to part with Newton, 
 even to please you, so we made up a little plot." 
 
 " Humph! — made up a little plot — well — I shan't 
 alter my wiE, nevertheless ;" and IMr. Forster recommenced 
 the reading of his brief,. 
 
 Such is the history of Newton Forster, which, like 
 most novels or plays, has been wound up with marriage. 
 The last time that I appeared before my readers, they 
 were dissatisfied with the termination of my story; they 
 considered I had deprived them of " a happy marriage," 
 to which, as an undoubted right, they were entitled, after 
 wading through three tedious volumes. As I am anxious 
 to keep on good terms with the public, I hasten to repair 
 the injury which it has sustained, by stating that about 
 three years after the marriage of Newton Forster, the fol- 
 lowing paragraph appeared in the several papers of the 
 metropolis. 
 
 " Yesterday, by special license, the Right Honourable 
 WilUam Lord Aveleyn to Mademoiselle Julie de Fon- 
 tanges, only daughter of the Marquis de Fontanges, late 
 governor of the Island of Bourbon. The marriage was to 
 have been solemnised in December last, but was postponed, 
 in consequence of the death of the late Lord Aveleyn. 
 After the ceremony, the happy couple," &c. &c. &,c.
 
 OB, THK MERCHAJSX SKUVICE. 383 
 
 And noWj most arbitrary public, I consider that 1 have 
 made the amende honorable, and that we are quits ; for, if 
 you were minus a happy marriage in the last work^ you 
 have a couple to indenmify you in the present. 
 
 -T 
 
 
 LONDON: 
 C. WHITINO, BEAUFORT-HOUSK, DOKE-STREET, LINCOLN'S-INN-F]ELDS.
 
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