Should no such position be available, he would ship before the mast, or serve as cook or cabin-boy, or even scullion--but he would not live another day or hour dependent on his dear Uncle George, who had impoverished himself in his behalf.
He selected the sea instead of going into the army as a common soldier because the sea had always appealed to him.

He loved its freedom and its dangers.

Then again, he was young and strong--could climb like a cat--sail a boat--swim--Yes!--the sea was the place! He could get far enough away behind its horizons to hide the struggle he must make to accomplish the one purpose of his life--the earning of his debt.
Filled with this idea he began to perfect his plans, determining to take no one into his confidence until the day before the ship was ready to sail.

He would then send for his mother and Alec--bring them all down to St.George's house and announce his intention.

That was the best and wisest way.