as any in the south of England, and as obstinate as any I could wish to

see. Of an obstinate man I can always make good; with a limp one I can

do nothing. But bear in mind every word you have heard me say, because I

came down on purpose about it; and I generally penetrate the devices of

the enemy, though they lead me on a wild-goose-chase sometimes, but only

when our own folk back them up, either by lies or stupidity. Now look

once more, for you are slower as well as a great deal wiser than I am.

You see how this land-locked bight of Springhaven seems made by the

Almighty for flat-bottomed craft, if once they can find their way into

it; while the trend of the coast towards Pebbleridge is equally suited

for the covering fleet, unless a gale from southwest comes on, in

which case they must run for it. And you see that the landed force, by

crowning the hill above your house and across the valley, might defy

our noble Volunteers, and all that could be brought against them, till a

hundred thousand cutthroats were established here. And Boney would make

his head-quarters at the Hall, with a French cook in your kitchen, and

a German butler in your cellar, and my pretty godchild to wait upon him,

for the rogue loves pretty maidens."

"That will do. That is quite enough. No wonder you have written poems,

Nelson, as you told us the last time you were here. If my son had only

got your imagination--but perhaps you know something more than you have

told me. Perhaps you have been told--"

"Never mind about that," the great sea-captain answered, turning away

as if on springs; "it is high time for me to be off again, and my chaise

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