“I was eighteen, sir. My father received a legacy from an uncle in Scotland, which made him a rich man; and then I was sent to this institution to finish my education. I had worked two years in a machine-shop before I went to sea at all. I think I can run an engine, sir.” “I have no doubt you can; in fact, I believe these young gentlemen can do any thing that anybody can,” added Mr. Frisbone, laughing heartily; and sometimes no one could imagine what he was laughing at. “The second engineer ran a stationary engine when he was twelve years old, in his father’s shop,” continued O’Hara, when he had presented this officer. “And I was engineer of a small steam-yacht when I was fourteen,” added Richards. “All right, young gentlemen; and I shall have nothing to do but sleep in the cabin, and take care of the women-folks,” chuckled the Prince. “I think some of our officers will be quite willing to assist you in that part of your duty,” said O’Hara lightly. “Upon my loife, the young lady is as beautiful as the lovely Giulia Fabiano; and, by the powers, that’s saying a great dale!” “By the way, now I think of it, is there a young gentleman in the squadron by the name of Speers,--Tom Speers?” “There is, sir; and he is one of our party,” replied O’Hara. “Where are ye, Tom Speers?” Tom had been introduced; but the Prince evidently did not notice the name, for he had called him “Mr. Spear,” when he addressed him. Tom came forward when his name was called. “How is it you happen to be here, Mr. Speers?” asked the Prince. “I was detailed to act as chief officer of this vessel, by the captain of the Tritonia, sir,” replied Tom, wondering how Mr. Frisbone happened to know any thing about him. “I know; but you were sent for by my friend Judge Rodwood, to go to England.” “I did not go, sir.” “Well, we won’t stop to talk about that now. We must go to work on the steamer at once, and have her in good condition in case another storm comes on,” said Mr. Frisbone, suddenly changing his tone and manner. But, before the officers left the cabin, he introduced them to his wife and her sister; then the party took a look at the vessel below. Mr. Rimmer had been studying the hole in the starboard bow since he came on board, and by this time he was hard at work repairing the damage. Two seamen, who had a taste for carpentry, were detailed to assist him. Until the hole was stopped, nothing could be done towards righting the vessel; for she lay just in the proper position to enable the carpenter to do his work to the best advantage.