He clasped his hands behind his back, and, pausing at a turn of the road, looked down upon the little quay below. Out in the river two or three small craft rode at anchor, while a babble of cheerful voices from a distant boat only served to emphasise the stillness of the evening. “Looks quiet,” said Captain Nibletts, after watching him for some time. “I’m thinking of my nevy,” said Captain Barber, slowly. “I remember me an’ my sister bringing ’im here when he was three year old, and I ’ad to carry him all the way back. He put his arms round my neck, and I can smell peppermint-ball now.” Captain Nibletts, who did not quite follow him, attributed the outrage to a young couple who had just passed. “I’m all alone now,” continued Captain Barber, unheeding, “but I don’t want to marry. Why not? ’Cos I’m too old, and because it’s like beginning where other people leave off.” “Well, make up your mind and tell her so,” said the other. “It wouldn’t do any good,” said Barber, dolefully. “Tell her to-night,” said Nibletts, “Come into the Thorn and have a glass, just so as to warm you up to it, and then get it over.” Captain Barber made no reply, but turning round led the way slowly back to the inn, and after acknowledging the respectful salutations of the crew of the schooner who were in the bar by ordering the landlady to fill their pots again, led the way into the parlour and began to charge himself for the interview. That he did not underestimate the difficulties of the ordeal was evident by the extent of his orders, and Captain Nibletts noted with satisfaction as the evening wore on that the old man’s spirits were improving considerably. Twice he sent out instructions to the bar to have the men’s mugs replenished, a proceeding which led to Mr. William Green being sent by the grateful crew to express their feelings in a neat little speech. “A very nice-spoken young fellow,” said Captain Barber, approvingly. He had some more whisky, and at the sounds of a step-dance on the brick floor of the adjoining taproom, took up his glass, and, followed by Nibletts, watched the proceedings from the doorway. Mr. William Green, who worshipped wealth and position, sidled up to him, and with much deference discussed the dancing. He made such a favourable impression that Captain Barber, who was in a semi-maudlin mood, took him by the arm to the now deserted parlour, and ensconcing him in a corner, told him all his troubles and warned him of the pitfalls which beset the feet of good-looking bachelors. Mr. Green was sympathy itself, and for some time sat silently evolving various schemes for the deliverance of his patron. Captain Nibletts returning to the parlour a little later found them in close consultation. A ray of hope illuminated the somewhat heavy features of the old man, and, catching sight of the captain, he beckoned him to his side. “Me an’ this young man have thought of something,” he said, in a voice rendered husky with excitement.