The De Forresters looked at each other in blank amazement, for this result was wholly unexpected by them. It had never occurred to them that Cumberland could be defeated, and all the anxiety they had in relation to the vote for commodore was to ascertain the strength of the opposition, who were understood to be running another candidate. "Captain Lincoln, I congratulate you on your election," said Cumberland, as soon as he could in some measure recover from his astonishment. "I thank you, commodore; but this is none of my doings. I am more astonished than you can be, and don't propose to stand it," replied Lincoln. "Three cheers for Commodore Lincoln," called one of the opposition, and they were given on the instant; and Cumberland joined heartily in the tribute. "Mr. Lowington, I wish to decline!" shouted Lincoln. "I was not a candidate for this position; I did not, and do not, desire the position." "All the captains were candidates," replied the principal. "If you had given notice before the vote that you did not desire the position, and would not accept, it would have been another thing." "But I had no suspicion, till the ballot was taken, that any one intended to vote for me," pleaded Lincoln. "I do not like to accept the place for several reasons." "I hope he will accept it, sir," said Commodore Cumberland; "and I wish to say that, if another ballot is taken, I must decline to be a candidate." The opposition applauded violently. It was understood that Lincoln declined out of regard to his friend and superior; but the noble conduct of the commodore put to the blush some of the smaller aspirants for office. "I do not think that Captain Lincoln can decline, under the circumstances," said the principal. "Such a step does not seem to be in order. Besides, young gentlemen, you desired to vote, and I shall not interfere with the freedom of the elections. I hope you will have voting enough to-day fully to satisfy you. We will now proceed to the election of the captain of the ship."