in everything--wages,
perquisites, and position; and they never again got out of their
reckoning. It was obvious James was first favourite with the crew,
and after the first voyage the veteran owner showed his marked
approval. Jim was allowed to do just as he pleased. The daughters were
charmed with him, and frequently visited the vessel with their father
when the officers could not get conveniently to their home. A strong
and growing attachment was quite apparent so far as the girls were
concerned. There seemed to be a preference with both of them for the
first mate, who, in turn, fixed his affections on the youngest. His
comrade was not quite satisfied with being so frequently ignored, so
remonstrated with Jim to stick to one, and he would stick to the
other; but the ladies having to be taken into account, it did not work
at all smoothly, as each desired to have Mr. Leigh, and before it was
settled the sisters had a violent tiff, which brought about the climax
and made it possible for negotiations to be carried on in favour of a
settlement. The father selected the elder girl for Vandertallen, and
the younger was fixed on Leigh, who threw himself into the vortex of
flirtation with youthful ardour. He thought at one time of marrying
and settling down in Chili, and undoubtedly the owner and daughter
gave encouragement to this idea.

But letters began to arrive from home, which had an unsettling effect
on him. He was afraid to give his confidence to the captain lest he
might break faith with him, but in truth his mind and heart were
centred on a picturesque spot on the side of a Welsh hill, and in that
little home there was one who longed to have him back. Indeed, she had
written to say that if he did not come soon to her she would come to
him. These communications revived all the old feelings of affection in
his breast, and he resolved to tear himself away from the environment
which had gripped him like a vice. The old Spaniard kept hinting
marriage to him each time he paid a visit to the superb villa, but he
refused to be drawn into anything definite. As he said--

"The place is getting too hot for me. I must face it sooner or later
if I am not to permanently settle in Chili. Once married it is all
over with me. I will have loads of money, but am I sure it will bring
happiness? I think I must say that I lean towards a daughter of my
native land, who may not have wealth, but who has all the attributes
that appeal to me