shall not deny myself the pleasure of sending him such
an answer as he deserves. Read that, Oakes, and then say if keelhauling
would be too good for the writer."

Sir Gervaise took the letter in silence, though not without great
surprise, and began to peruse it. As he proceeded, the colour mounted to
his temples, and once he dropped his hand, to cast a look of wonder and
indignation towards his companion. That the reader may see how much
occasion there was for both these feelings, we shall give the
communication entire. It was couched in the following words:

"DEAR ADMIRAL BLUEWATER:

"Our ancient friendship, and I am proud to add, affinity of blood,
unite in inducing me to write a line, at this interesting moment.
Of the result of this rash experiment of the Pretender's son, no
prudent man can entertain a doubt. Still, the boy may give us some
trouble, before he is disposed of altogether. We look to all our
friends, therefore, for their most efficient exertions, and most
prudent co-operation. On _you_, every reliance is placed; and I
wish I could say as much for _every flag-officer afloat_. Some
distrust--unmerited, I sincerely hope--exists in a very high
quarter, touching the loyalty of a certain commander-in-chief, who
is so completely under your observation, that it is felt enough is
done in hinting the fact to one of your political tendencies. The
king said, this morning, 'Vell, dere isht Bluevater; of _him_ we
are shure asht of ter sun.' You stand excellently well _there_, to
my great delight; and I need only say, be watchful and prompt.

"Yours, with the most sincere faith and attachment, my dear
Bluewater, &c., &c.

"REAR-ADMIRAL BLUEWATER.

"P. S.--I have just heard that they have sent you the red riband.
The king himself, was in this."

When Sir Gervaise had perused this precious epistle to himself, he read
it slowly, and in a steady, clear voice, aloud. When he had ended, he
dropped the paper, and stood gazing at his friend.

"One would think the fellow some exquisite satirist," said Bluewater,
laughing. "_I_ am to be vigilant, and see that _you_ do not mutiny, and
run away with the fleet to the Highlands, one of these foggy mornings!
Carry it up into Scotland, as Galleygo has it! Now, what is your opinion
of that letter?"

"That all courtiers are knaves, and all princes ungrateful. I should
thi