hed to
speak to you about; and now, having told you all my wishes, I beg that
you will let me go."

It is needless to say that this sudden news of Roger's determination
came as somewhat of a blow to his parents, especially his mother, who
was very much against her son adopting a profession in which there was
so much danger. Roger's father, however, looked at the matter from a
more practical and business point of view, being fully aware that what
Roger had said about the glory honour, and riches to be won by a brave
man at sea at that period was perfectly true; and, although loath to
lose his only son, he saw quite clearly that the lad had fully made up
his mind to go to sea, even before speaking about the matter, and that
if he were forbidden he would take kindly to nothing else. So he
promised Roger that he would talk the matter over with his wife, and
that in due time they would let their son know their decision, possibly
in the course of the day.

Roger's mother, as might be expected, raised all the opposition she
could to his going away; but her husband pointed out to her so clearly
the advantages to be gained that eventually she gave way, and consented,
with many tears, to part with her boy. She found some slight
consolation, however, in the fact that Mary Edgwyth would be with her
during Roger's absence; for she knew that Mary would be to her even as a
daughter, and would help, in some measure, to fill Roger's place until
he returned.

His father accordingly communicated to Roger the result of his talk with
his wife, and the latter, being a high-spirited young fellow, was
naturally greatly elated thereat, and plied his father with questions as
to when he might be allowed to leave, and how the adventure was to be
brought about. There was a good deal to be done, however, before Roger
and Harry could get away; clothes had to be bought and packed, and
Roger's father had to make enquiry as to whether Mr Cavendish could
find room in his ship, and, if so, whether he would take the two lads.

All, however, proved satisfactory in the long run, and Roger and Harry
were ordered to be on board Cavendish's ship, the _Stag Royal_, on or
before the twentieth day of July. This left the two boys about a month
in which to complete their preparations before the day of sailing came
round, and, needless to say, the time lagged most painfully for the
eager young adventurers, although to Roger's parents it seemed all too
short