it
_cost nothing_. And now, having detailed the state of things up to the
time of Philip's embarkation, we shall proceed with our story.

As soon as Philip was clear of his own threshold he hastened away as
though he were attempting to escape from his own painful thoughts. In
two days he arrived at Amsterdam, where his first object was to procure
a small, but strong, steel chain to replace the ribbon by which the
relic had hitherto been secured round his neck. Having done this, he
hastened to embark with his effects on board of the Ter Schilling.
Philip had not forgotten to bring with him the money which he had agreed
to pay the captain, in consideration of being received on board as an
apprentice rather than a sailor. He had also furnished himself with a
further sum for his own exigencies. It was late in the evening when he
arrived on board of the Ter Schilling, which lay at single anchor,
surrounded by the other vessels composing the Indian fleet. The
captain, whose name was Kloots, received him with kindness, showed him
his berth, and then went below in the hold to decide a question relative
to the cargo, leaving Philip on deck to his own reflections.

And this, then, thought Philip, as he leaned against the taffrail and
looked forward--this, then, is the vessel in which my first attempt is
to be made. First and--perhaps last. How little do those with whom I
am about to sail imagine the purport of my embarkation? How different
are my views from those of others? Do _I_ seek a fortune? No! Is it
to satisfy curiosity and a truant spirit? No! I seek communion with
the dead. Can I meet the dead without danger to myself and these who
sail with me? I should think not, for I cannot join it but in death.
Did they surmise my wishes and intentions, would they permit me to
remain one hour on board? Superstitious as seamen are said to be, they
might find a good excuse, if they knew my mission, not only for their
superstition, but for ridding themselves of one on such an awful errand.
Awful indeed! and how to be accomplished? Heaven alone, with
perseverance on my part, can solve the mystery. And Philip's thoughts
reverted to his Amine. He folded his arms, and entranced in meditation,
with his eyes raised to the firmament, he appeared to watch the flying
scud.

"Had you not better go below?" said a mild voice, which made Philip
start from his reverie.

It was that of the first mate, whose name was Hillebrant