e Trevanion, and then to beat him, means not only skill,
but nerve. That's the thing I like about it--the nerve, the pluck."

"A game is never lost until it's won, sir," said Bob sententiously.

"That's it, my boy. Stick to that. What did I hear about your plan to
go into Parliament? Do you mean it?"

"If I have good luck, sir."

"A great career, my lad, and you should do well. I am so glad you've
given up the idea of being a book-worm. Of course your scholarship
will come handy to you in Parliament, so perhaps you've been wise to
stick to your books. But the country wants men who can _do_ things."

"I mean to do them too, sir."

"Trelawney blood," laughed the old man. "Well, there's no reason in
the world why you shouldn't do big things. I always had hoped that
Roger would go into Parliament; indeed, he was as good as nominated for
St. Ia. But he was killed in the Boer War, poor fellow. A fine lad
too, as fine a lad as ever stepped in shoeleather," and his eyes became
moist. "Thank God we are at peace now!" he added.

"You are coming back with me to Penwennack?" he went on, when presently
the party were leaving the Club House.

"I'd love to, sir, but I can't. I must get back. I promised mother."

"Ah well, stick to your mother. A lad who keeps his promise to his
mother seldom goes wrong. But come up to dinner to-morrow night, and
bring your mother with you."

"You may depend on me," cried Bob. "Thanks very much, Admiral, we
shall be delighted."

"Bob," said Nancy, "you've done more to soften dad to-day, and to
prepare the way for me, than if you had got ten fellowships. He loves
a plucky fight, and hates a coward."

"And I'll fight," cried Bob, "because I shall fighting for you, Nancy."

"I wish you were going to spend the evening with us," she said
ruefully. "I do want you with me."

"And don't I wish it too! But I told you how things stood. Till
to-morrow then."

"Be sure to come early," cried Nancy, as she drove away.

Bob made his way over the Towans towards St. Ia, as happy as a king.
Everywhere the sun seemed to be shining. At his feet the wild thyme
grew in profusion. Acres upon acres were made purple by this modest
flower. The sea was glorious with many coloured hues, the whole
country-side was beautiful beyond words. What wonder that he was
happy! He was young and vigorous, the best and most beautiful girl in
the world loved him, and his future was rosy hued.

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