"Realise what is committed to his safe keeping," I went on; "not precious human lives only, but a ship and cargo of value enough to purchase several German principalities. Nor is it one voyage only. You may make twenty in your capacity of commander. Think then of the wealth that will have been entrusted to you in your time, the crowds upon crowds of human beings whose lives were in your hands!" "Sir, you are right," he repeated, in a voice that was oily with gratification. "Pray what is your age, Mr. Barclay?" I told him. "Then, considering your age, all I can say is you talk very sensibly. Let us walk, sir." We started to measure the planks from the wheel to half-way the length of the poop. "There is no doubt," said I, "that you, as master of this vessel, are, as you have all along contended, empowered to marry me to Miss Bellassys," and I then gave him the substance of what Mr. Higginson had said to me below. "I knew that Higginson would see it after thinking a bit," said he. "Of course, I am empowered to marry, on board my ship, any couple that may apply to me. Have you spoken to Miss Bellassys?" "I have." "And is she agreeable?" "Perfectly agreeable." "Good!" said he with a chuckle. "Now, when shall it be?" "Oh, it is for you to say, captain." "Ten o'clock to-morrow morning do?" "Very well, indeed," I answered, "but it will be quite private, Captain Parsons; it is Miss Bellassys's wish." "Private? Why private?" he exclaimed, in a voice of disappointment; "a wedding is an interesting sight, and I intended to admit the steerage passengers. I had also seen my way to converting our usual lunch into a sort of wedding breakfast for you, and indeed I don't mind telling you, Mr. Barclay, that I've been amusing myself during the last half-hour in rehearsing several speeches." "I can assure you, captain," said I, "that I fully appreciate all your goodness. But a public ceremony!--No, a quite private affair in your cabin, if you please." We measured half the length of the deck in silence, and I almost dreaded to hear him speak. He then said: "It seems a pity to rob the passengers of an edifying sight. There are several couples in the steerage who ought to be married, and the example I counted upon offering them would be certain to take effect. But of course--if it's the young lady's wish,--by the way, you'll forgive me asking the question: it's quite a matter of form--no rudeness intended--you are sure that your name is Barclay?" "Quite sure." "What Barclay?" "Herbert," said I. "Herbert Barclay!" said he, "and the young lady's name's genuine too?" "Perfectly genuine, captain." "Grace Bellassys!" said he; "it sound a bit theatrical, don't it?" "It is her name, nevertheless," said I laughing. "You see, Mr. Barclay, if the names are wrong, the marriage is wrong."