Still, he
was always annoying me in mean little ways, and finally I got all I
could stand, and the long and short of it is that I ran away to
Portsmouth, and went on a coasting voyage. After I got back I shipped
from Boston for Liverpool, and ever since I've kept sailing in one
direction or another. This will be my longest voyage."
"Haven't you been to see your mother since you left home three years
ago?" Harry inquired.
"Of course I have," said Jack, promptly. "I always go to see her as
soon as I get home from a voyage. Poor mother! She was looking pale
and thin when I saw her three weeks ago. I am sure she has repented
marrying, but she won't own up. When I'm a man----"
"Well, Jack; when you're a man?"
"I'll see that she has a better time, and if old Bannock don't like it
he can clear out. I think he will anyway."
"Clear out?"
"Yes; he will have spent all the property by that time, and when that
is done, he won't make much objection to going away. Then I will take
care of mother, and see that she does not suffer for anything."
"You are right, Jack. I sympathize with you. I hope you'll succeed. I
only wish I had a mother to look out for," and Harry's fine face wore
an expression of sadness. "But there's one thing I can't help saying,
though I don't want to discourage you.
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