'We are bound for Portsmouth.' Smike nodded his head and smiled, but expressed no other emotion; for whether they had been bound for Portsmouth or Port Royal would have been alike to him, so they had been bound together.
'I don't know much of these matters,' resumed Nicholas; 'but Portsmouth is a seaport town, and if no other employment is to be obtained, I should think we might get on board some ship.

I am young and active, and could be useful in many ways.

So could you.' 'I hope so,' replied Smike.

'When I was at that--you know where I mean ?' 'Yes, I know,' said Nicholas.

'You needn't name the place.' 'Well, when I was there,' resumed Smike; his eyes sparkling at the prospect of displaying his abilities; 'I could milk a cow, and groom a horse, with anybody.' 'Ha!' said Nicholas, gravely.