I did not know that he was your grandfather until yesterday, when I was talking with Mr O'Brien; but I perfectly recollect him, although I was very young at that time.

Now, Mr Simple, if you will promise me as a gentleman (and I know you are one), that you will not repeat what I tell you, then I'll let you into the history of my life." "Mr Chucks, as I am a gentleman I never will divulge it until you are dead and buried, and not then if you do not wish it." "When I am dead and buried, you may do as you please; it may then be of service to other people, although my story is not a very long one." Mr Chucks then sat down upon the fore-end of the booms by the funnel, and I took my place by his side, when he commenced as follows:-- "My father was a boatswain before me--one of the old school, rough as a bear, and drunken as a Gosport fiddler.

My mother was--my mother, and I shall say no more.

My father was invalided for harbour duty after a life of intoxication, and died shortly afterwards.

In the meantime I had been, by the kindness of the port-admiral's wife, educated at a foundation school.