The best man that ever lived couldn't do better than that.

I hope--oh, I _do_ hope--that the whole affair will turn out in some way that will not be disagreeable to you.

But remember, Dave, that the lightheaded little High School girl who plighted her faith to you is interested in you--not particularly in a future Naval officer, necessarily.

If the affair should go to the worst ending, and you find it advisable to resign from the Naval Academy on account of any class feeling, there are plenty of bright prospects in life for an honorable and capable man.

Don't ever imagine that I shall be disappointed over anything that you do, as long as you remain true to yourself and your manhood.