On the other hand, the thought of returning home, and asking pardon of his father, was not less repugnant to his feelings.

He was endowed with one of those haughty and imperious natures which recognize their faults, not to repair them, but to make of them a starting point, or even a pedestal.
He was rambling about the port, reflecting on his unfortunate situation, when he heard mention made of a ship ready to set sail at high tide, and which needed a reinforcement of cabin-boys and sailors.
This was for him an inspiration; he did not hesitate, he hastened to engage.

That very evening he had gained the open sea, beyond the Isle of May, and, with his eyes turned towards the Bay of St.Andrew, was attempting, in vain, to recognize among the lights which were yet burning in the city, the fortunate lantern which decorated the sacred door of the Royal Salmon.
At present, Alexander Selkirk is twenty-four years old.

He has become a genuine sailor, and he loves his profession; the sea is now his beautiful Kitty.

Besides, it is long since he has troubled himself about his heart.