We want you with us, in short. As you probably know, we
have a fleet consisting of steamers of various sizes, but all pretty
much the same type; that is to say, seaworthy, comfortable, and well
engined. We cannot place you in command of one of our newest vessels,
of course. But there is the _Tampico_, the commander of which, Captain
Harrison, we are to retire for age. She is a good boat, running to San
Blanco, and she is fitted for passengers; so you will find opportunity
to develop your social proclivities, if you have any to develop."
As Mr. Howland was talking the color had slowly departed from Dan's
face, and now, as the president ceased speaking and regarded the young
man, he spoke haltingly, with dry lips.
"Do I understand you to mean that you are going to make me Captain of
the _Tampico_?"
"You are to understand that we have," corrected Mr. Howland.
"Mr. Howland, gentlemen," said Dan, "I--I can't say anything
except--thank you--I--" He hesitated, confusedly.
"There's nothing for you to say," interpolated the president, "except
that you'll go down to the ship, which is loading at Pier 36, East
River, and assume command. Captain Harrison will remain aboard for two
or three trips to break you in to the trade." There was that in his
voice which intimated the end of the interview, and Dan with a bow was
turning to leave, when Mr.
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