I remember to have heard that he had a disappointment in love, when quite a young man, and that he has ever since been considered a confirmed bachelor.

So you will take heed, my love." "The warning was unnecessary, dear mother," returned Mildred, laughing; "I could dote on the admiral as a father, but must be excused from considering him young enough for a nearer tie." "And yet he has the much admired profession, Mildred," said the mother, smiling fondly, and yet a little archly.

"I have often heard you speak of your passion for the sea." "That was formerly, mother, when I spoke as a sailor's daughter, and as girls are apt to speak, without much reflection.

I do not know that I think better of a seaman's profession, now, than I do of any other.

I fear there is often much misery in store for soldiers' and sailors' wives." Mrs.Dutton's lip quivered again; but hearing a foot at the door, she made an effort to be composed, just as Admiral Bluewater entered.
"I have run away from the bottle, Mrs.Dutton, to join you and your fair daughter, as I would run from an enemy of twice my force," he said, giving each lady a hand, in a manner so friendly, as to render the act more than gracious; for it was kind.