I was astonished at this polite offer, which my modesty induced me to ascribe more to my uniform than to my own merits, and, as I felt no inclination to refuse the compliment, I said that I should be most happy.

I thought I might venture to offer my arm, which she accepted, and we proceeded up High Street on our way to her home.
Just as we passed the admiral's house, I perceived my captain walking with two of the admiral's daughters.

I was not a little proud to let him see that I had female acquaintances as well as he had, and, as I passed him with the young lady under my protection, I took off my hat, and made him a low bow.

To my surprise, not only did he not return the salute, but he looked at me with a very stern countenance.

I concluded that he was a very proud man, and did not wish the admiral's daughters to suppose that he knew midshipmen by sight; but I had not exactly made up my mind on the subject, when the captain, having seen the ladies into the admiral's house, sent one of the messengers after me to desire that I would immediately come to him at the George Inn, which was nearly opposite.
I apologised to the young lady, and promised to return immediately if she would wait for me; but she replied, if that was my captain, it was her idea that I should have a confounded wigging and be sent on board.
So, wishing me good-bye, she left me and continued her way home.