of a high-bred gentleman, who respected
himself, and expected every one to do the same.

That sometimes a little mirth was occasioned by his extreme precision is
true; but it was whispered, not boldly indulged in. As to his qualities
as an officer and seaman, I shall only say, that they were considered
more than respectable. Long habit of command had given him a fair
knowledge of the duties in the first instance, and he never condescended
(indeed, it would have been contrary to his character) to let the
officers or seamen know whether he did or did not know anything about
the second.

As to his moral character, I can only say, that it was very difficult to
ascertain it. That he would never do that which was in the slightest
degree derogatory to the character of a gentleman was most certain: but
he was so wrapped up in exclusiveness, that it was almost impossible to
estimate his feelings. Occasionally, I may say very rarely, he might
express them; but if he did, it was but for a moment, and he was again
reserved as before.

That he was selfish is true; but who is not? and those in high rank are
still more so than others, not so much by nature, but because their self
is encouraged by those around them. You could easily offend his pride
but he was above being flattered in a gross way. I really believe that
the person in the ship for whom he had the least respect was the
obsequious Mr Culpepper. Such was the Honourable Captain Delmar.

Mr Hippesley, the first lieutenant, was a broad-shouldered,
ungainly-looking personage. He had more the appearance of a master in
the service than a first lieutenant. He was a thorough seaman; and
really, for a first lieutenant, a very good-natured man. All that was
requisite, was to allow his momentary anger to have free escape by the
safety-valve of his mouth: if you did not, an explosion was sure to be
the result.

He was, as we use the term at sea, a regular ship husband--that is to
say, he seldom put his foot on shore; and if he did, he always appeared
anxious to get on board again. He was on good terms, but not familiar,
with his messmates, and very respectful to the captain. There was no
other officer in the service who would have suited Captain Delmar so
well as Mr Hippesley, who, although he might occasionally grumble at
not being promoted, appeared on the whole to be very indifferent about
the matter.

The men were partial to him, as they always are to one who, w