blican familiarities.

"That's the King of Belgium," said Dr. Winstock to Paul, as the
principal and the venerable person approached the line, followed by the
officials.

"The king!" exclaimed Paul, taken all aback by the announcement; and
this was the first time he had ever looked upon a live monarch. "He
seems just like any other man; what shall we do?"

"Give him three Yankee cheers," replied the doctor.

Captain Kendall spoke to the flag-officer and to Captain Haven.

"Three cheers for his majesty the King of Belgium!" called Flag-officer
Gordon.

They were given with a will, but the "tiger" was omitted in deference to
royalty. King Leopold gracefully and graciously acknowledged the salute
by touching his hat, and then walked up and down the line, inspecting
the ship's company. Mr. Lowington, hat in hand, walked just behind him.
His majesty then took position in front of the line, and the students
came to the conclusion that he was going to make a speech; but he did
not: he spoke to Mr. Lowington again, who went to the line and called
out the flag-officer and the two captains.

"You are to be presented to the king; don't speak unless you are asked a
question, and don't turn your back to him," said Mr. Lowington in a low
tone.

Paul was startled at the idea of being presented to King Leopold, but he
followed his companions, and in due time was with them handed over to
the gentleman who had presented the principal, and who proved to be the
grand chamberlain.

"Captain Kendall, commander of the Josephine," said the gentleman, when
Paul's turn came.

Paul bowed, blushing up to the eyes, when he became conscious that the
royal gaze was fixed upon him; but he had self-possession enough not to
overdo the matter, and his salute was as dignified and graceful as that
of majesty itself. The king smiled when he saw the fine form and
handsome face of the junior captain.

"Do you command a ship?" asked his majesty, surveying the young officer
from head to foot, with a pleasant smile on his face.

"I command the Josephine, your majesty; she is not a ship, but a topsail
schooner of one hundred and sixty tons," replied Paul, satisfied that
kings speak just like other men.

"You are very young to command a vessel of that size," added the king.

Paul bowed, but made no reply, as no question was asked.

"Can you manage her in a gale?" asked his majesty.

"I think I can, your majesty; at least I have done so within a