As the time for parting approached, the young people began to feel that it would prove a greater trial than they had expected. While talking of their future life in the colony, and anticipating the various novel scenes and the new existence they were to enjoy, they had scarcely considered the wrench to their feelings which they would have to endure. Mr and Mrs Dicey had felt this, probably, from the first; and therefore, when the trial came, they were better prepared for it. Willy was the first to be got ready to start with his friend, Harry Shafto. We will, therefore, follow their fortunes before we accompany our other friends on their voyage. CHAPTER TWO. THE "RANGER" SAILS. HARRY AND WILLY LEAVE HOME--JOURNEY TO PORTSMOUTH--THE "BLUE POSTS"-- MIDSHIPMEN'S TRICKS--ON BOARD THE "RANGER"--THE SOLDIER-OFFICERS--THE SERGEANT'S WIFE--MRS MORLEY AND HER FAMILY--MRS RUMBELOW NURSES WILLY--CAPE OF GOOD HOPE--SENT TO LAND TROOPS--THE "RANGER" IN DANGER-- DRIVING TOWARDS SHORE--THE LAST ANCHOR HOLDS--SAIL MADE--MRS RUMBELOW'S SERMON--TROOPS CARRIED ON. One bright morning at the end of January, the Portsmouth coach drove up to Major Shafto's door. The Diceys were breakfasting at the house, for Harry Shafto's leave was up, and he was to take Willy with him on board the "Ranger," then lying in Portsmouth harbour. Farewells were said, fond embraces exchanged, for Harry, though a tall young man, was not ashamed to kiss his mother again and again, and his dear young sisters; nor did Willy mind the tears which trickled unbidden from his eyes. His heart was very full; though he had so longed to go to sea, now that he was actually going, he felt that he should be ready, if required, to give up all his bright hopes, and stay at home. In spite of the cold, the whole family came out and stood at the door while the two young sailors mounted to the top of the coach. "All right," shouted the guard, as the last article of luggage was handed up. The coachman gave a gentle lash to his horses, and the lads, standing up, turned round to give a last fond look at all those they loved so well. This, it must be understood, was some time before Charles Dicey and his sisters started on their more important expedition. The young sailors expected to be home again in little more than a year, or perhaps even in less time, for the "Ranger" was a Government troop-ship, with the usual officers and crew, however, of a sloop-of-war. Harry Shafto would have preferred being in a dashing frigate, but, at the same time, he was glad to serve under so worthy a captain as Commander Newcombe.