I wonder in what part of the world Colliver is travelling now.
"July 1st .-- Oh, this weary waiting! Shall I never see the shores of England again?
The doctor says that I only make myself worse with fretting; but it is hard to linger so--when at my journey's end lies wealth almost beyond the imagination, and (what is far more to me) the sight of my dear ones.
"July 4th .-- In answer to my entreaties, Mr.Eversleigh has consented to make inquiries about the homeward-bound vessels starting from Colombo.

The result is that he has at once allayed my impatience, and compassed his end of keeping me a little longer, by selecting-- upon condition that I approve his choice--an East Indiaman due to sail in about a fortnight's time.

The name of the ship is the _Belle Fortune_, and of the captain, Cyrus Holding.

In spite of the name the ship is English, and is a barque of about 600 tons register.
Her cargo consists of sugar and coffee, and her crew numbers some eighteen hands.

To-morrow I am going down with Mr.Eversleigh to inspect her, but I am prepared beforehand to find her to my liking.
The only pity is that she does not start earlier.
"July 6th .-- Weak as I am, even yesterday's short excursion exhausted me, so that I felt unable to write a word last night.