.

MARANHAM AND PARA.
As we drew near the equinoctial line, I occasionally heard some talk among the officers on the subject of a visit from Old Neptune; and as there were three of the crew who had never crossed the line, it was thought probable that the venerable sea god would visit the brig, and shake hands with the strangers, welcoming them to his dominions.
A few days afterwards, when the latitude was determined by a meridian altitude of the sun, Captain Page ordered Collins to go aloft and take a good look around the horizon, as it was not unlikely something was in sight.

Collins grinned, and went aloft.

He soon hailed the deck from the fore-topsail yard, and said he saw a boat broad off on the weather bow, with her sails spread "wing and wing," and steering directly for the brig.
"That's Old Neptune himself!" shouted Captain Page, clapping his hands.
"He will soon be alongside.

Mr.Abbot," continued he, speaking to the chief mate, "let the men get their dinners at once.