ke the enterprise, James?" asked Mr Janrin, after the
captain had gone.

"I have not considered the details sufficiently to give an opinion,
sir," I answered. "If all turns out as the captain expects, it must be
very profitable, but there are difficulties to be overcome, and dangers
encountered, and much loss may be incurred."

I saw Mr Janrin and the head clerk exchange glances, and nod to each
other. I fancy that they were nods of approval at what I had said.

"Then, James, you would not wish to engage in it in any capacity?" said
Mr Janrin. "You would rather not encounter the dangers and
difficulties of such a voyage?"

"That is a very different matter, sir," I answered. "I should very much
like to visit the countries you speak of, and the difficulties I cannot
help seeing would enhance the interest of the voyage."

Again the principal and clerk exchanged glances and nodded.

"What do you say, then, James, to taking charge of the venture as
supercargo? My belief is that you will act with discretion and judgment
as to its disposal, and that we shall have every reason to be satisfied
with you. Mr Thursby agrees with me, do you not, Thursby?"

"I feel sure that Mr James will bring no discredit on the firm, sir,"
answered Mr Thursby, smiling at me. "On the contrary, sir, no young
man I am acquainted with is so likely to conduce to the success of the
enterprise."

I was highly gratified by the kind remarks of my friends, and expressed
my thanks accordingly, at the same time that I begged I might be allowed
two days for consideration. I desired, of course, to consult my mother,
and was anxious also to know what another would have to say to the
subject. She, like a sensible girl, agreed with me that it would be
wise to endure the separation for the sake of securing, as I hoped to
do, ultimate comfort and independence. I knew from the way that she
gave this advice that she did not love me less than I desired. I need
say no more than that her confidence was a powerful stimulus to exertion
and perseverance in the career I had chosen. My mother was far more
doubtful about the matter. Not till the morning after I had mentioned
it to her did she say, "Go, my son; may God protect you and bless your
enterprise!"

I was from this time forward actively engaged in the preparations for
the voyage. My personal outfit was speedily ready, but I considered it
necessary to examine all the cases of merchandise put on