I do not hold myself responsible for the step any more than I do for the shape of my nose, which is said to be a facsimile of Captain Nutter's.
I have frequently noticed how circumstances conspire to help a man, or a boy, when he has thoroughly resolved on doing a thing.

That very week the Rivermouth Barnacle printed an advertisement that seemed to have been written on purpose for me.

It read as follows: WANTED.

A Few Able-bodied Seamen and a Cabin-Boy, for the ship Rawlings, now loading for New Orleans at Johnson's Wharf, Boston.

Apply in person, within four days, at the office of Messrs .-- & Co., or on board the Ship.
How I was to get to New Orleans with only $4.62 was a question that had been bothering me.