"These churches and these pictures are certainly very fine," said Paul, as they stopped at a window to rest. "We don't have them in our country. There isn't a church there that will compare with any of these cathedrals, to say nothing of the celebrated pictures, such as we have just seen."

"That's very true; and I am thankful that our people make a better use of their money. Here in Belgium, as in most countries of Europe, poverty is the curse of the people. They do not receive the reward of their labor. The government and the church take the lion's share of their earnings, and thus keep them down. This Cathedral was commenced in 1352, and finished in 1411, though another spire was to have been built. Nearly sixty years were employed in its erection, and probably it cost millions of dollars. Of course the people had to pay for it. The greater portion of the expense of it lies dormant here, it being merely an ornamental structure. It gratifies people's tastes, it is true; but God could be acceptably worshipped in a less costly edifice. If the capital locked up in this church had been invested in schools, colleges, and other educational institutions, it would be a blessing to the country. What is paid in Europe to build these grand structures for worship, and to support the trappings of royalty, is in our own country appropriated to public schools; and the nation reaps the benefit of them every year of its existence."

"That's so," replied Paul, emphatically; "and when any foreigner says anything to me again about our want of costly cathedrals, I shall call his attention to our schools."

"That's right; you are an American to the core," laughed the doctor.

"But I don't see any reason why we should not have as great painters in the United States as in Europe," added Paul.

"I do see the reason. Probably we have just as much talent for art in our nation, but the people find that it doesn't pay so well as developing the resources of a new country. When it is possible in America for a man to win the wealth and distinction which Rubens won, we shall be as successful in art as Europe has been; for Washington Allston, Benjamin West, and others have demonstrated the capacity of our people in this direction. The encouragement which artists receive makes the men. There are not many persons in our country who are willing to pay ten, fifty, or a hundred thousand dollars for a picture. So much money in a painting is dead capital among an energetic people who need all they can get to carry on agricultural, commercial, and manufacturing enterprises."

"Of course people will follow that calling which pays best, either in money or in reputation."

"Certainly, and the number of Dutch and Flemish artists assures us that painting has been a cherished art in the Low Countries. Vandyck was another celebrated painter of this country. He was born in Antwerp, and was a pupil of Rubens. There is a story that The Descent from the Cross was thrown down by the carelessness of a student, and badly injured by the fall. Vandyck, who was then a pupil of the great Flemish master, undertook to repair the mischief with his brush, and did it so well that Rubens declared the work was superior to his own. This story is current in the guide-books, and in the mouths of the commissionaires, who point out the places on the face of the Virgin and on the arm of one of the Marys where the pupil touched it up. But there is no truth in it, since the picture was hung up in the Cathedral before Vandyck entered the studio of Rubens."

"I suppose these people like to tell good stories, whether true or not."

"Yes; and you will find a man up in this steeple who believes that his spire is the tallest in the world," added Dr. Winstock.

They continued on their long ascent till they reached the region of the bells, where they found the attendant who glories in magnifying the wonders of the chimes and the spire. He had a small furnished apartment, which the visitors were invited to enter, and where he dispensed refreshments, of which no total abstinence man could partake. The doctor, knowing what the man had to say, skilfully turned his attention away from his favorite topic, until they were sufficiently refreshed—not by the eau de vie and noyau, but by the rest—to explore the bell towers.

The bells composing the chime were fixed in the lofts, which were filled with wires, cranks, and other machinery, used in operating them. In one place there was a bank of keys like those of an organ, where a person could play any tune he pleased upon the bells. The keeper had a history to relate of each bell, many of which were contributed by kings, princes, and lords, and bore their names. In another tower there was an immense bell, at the baptism of which—for church bells are duly consecrated in Catholic countries—the Emperor Charles V. stood as godfather. It requires sixteen men to ring it; but its peals rouse the Antwerpers only on great occasions, such as a visit of the king.

Dr. Winstock and Paul waited among the chimes till they had played the hourly tune, and then continued their progress to the heights above. The custodian of the steeple said there were six hundred and sixteen steps from the bottom to the top, and a person does not care to make the journey more than once in his lifetime. The winding stairs passed close to the Gothic openings of the tower, and they had an opportunity closely to observe the delicate workmanship of the structure, which Charles V. said should be kept in a glass case, and Napoleon compared to Mechlin lace.

At last, out of breath, they reached the highest point of the spire, and looked far down upon the lofty roof of the church. The buildings of the city looked like card houses, and a company of Belgian soldiers, marching in the streets, appeared like the pygmies who inhabited them. In the distance could be seen the towers of Ghent, Brussels, Mechlin, and Flushing, the wandering Scheldt, and the low country for a vast distance. The magnificent view, and the information it afforded, amply repaid them for the toil of ascending, and Paul made the Cathedral the subject of an entire letter to Miss Grace Arbuckle.

It was easier to go down than to come up, and when they had passed out into the Place Verte, the doctor declared that he must lunch before he walked any farther. The Hotel de l'Europe faced the Park, and Paul was desirous of seeing the interior of it. They entered through an archway, there being no doors on the street. There was a spacious area, or court-yard, through which alone the house could be reached. In other respects the establishment was similar to those in the United States.

On the continent, as in England, none but working people take breakfast much before nine o'clock, and the hour varies from this time till noon. Of late years the practice in American hotels corresponds with that of European ones. In the dining-room of the Hotel de l'Europe there are many small tables, and one or two long ones, the latter being used at table d'hote, which is served at five o'clock. A hotel bill is added, to give the reader an idea of the prices:—

"HOTEL DE L'EUROPE.

Place Verte.

ANVERS.

Note a M. Smith, Chambre No. 40, A.

Fr. Cen.

Aout 4. 1/2 Poulet et Salade, 3.00 1 The Complet, 1.50 Appartement, 2.50 Bougie, .50 Service, 1.00

5. 1 Dejeune et Bifstek, 3.00 1 Bifstek, Pomme de Terre, 1.50 ——- 13.00

Pour Acquit, J. W. BARBER."

"One The Complet" consists of simply tea and bread and butter, and as a franc is about twenty cents, its price is thirty cents. A centime is the hundredth of a franc, and fifty centimes is ten cents. If the guest adds a beefsteak and potatoes, or any other dish, to his meal, it just doubles the cost. The "bougie" is a candle, which is charged all over Europe, at from a quarter of a franc up to a franc. The traveller also pays for his soap, or provides it himself. When an "old stager" pays a franc for a candle, or a piece of soap, he rolls the part unused up in a paper and puts it into his trunk; and, if at his next stopping-place, he finds a candle in his room, he orders the waiter to remove it, and will not submit to be charged for it.

Table d'hote is a more formal meal, and in some large hotels much parade is made over it. The bill of fare is usually very meagre compared with that of the Fifth Avenue Hotel in New York, and every dish in the programme is presented to the guest. The charge for this meal, at first-class houses outside of Paris, is usually four francs, or eighty cents.

Dr. Winstock and Paul took a seat in the Salle a manger. The student was principally anxious to know what they had to eat, and in what manner they served it, for he was of an inquiring mind, and fond of making comparisons. The most common lunch consists of cold chicken and salad, the latter being simply lettuce prepared with oil and vinegar. Paul was disappointed, for the lunch differed hardly a shade from the same thing at home. Even the gentlemanly Belgian waiter, dressed in seemly black, spoke good English, and the "demi-poulet" was wasted upon him.

"Where shall we go now, Paul?" asked the doctor, as they left the dining-room.

"I leave that to you, sir. You seem to be quite at home here," replied Paul.

"We will take a carriage, and we can do up the city in a few hours."

A one-horse barouche was called, and a commissionaire—a kind of guide or interpreter, who assists strangers in doing their business, or in seeing the sights of the city—presented himself to be employed; but Dr. Winstock, who was familiar with the place, declined his services.

"What was that man?" asked Paul, as the carriage drove off to the Rue des Soeurs Noires, where the Dominican Church of St. Paul is located.

"He is a commissionaire, interpreter, or valet de place. Many travellers regard such men as swindlers; but for my own part I have found them very useful. When I first visited Antwerp I employed one. I found him intelligent and gentlemanly, and, so far as I could judge, not disposed to swindle me himself or to let others do so. I paid him five francs a day, and I am sure he saved me more money than I paid him, besides taking me in the easiest and most convenient way to the various points in the city."

"I should think such men would be very necessary, especially to those who cannot speak the language."

"In Amsterdam and Rotterdam I should have been on my beam-ends without them. I never could imagine where they obtained their bad name, unless it was from Englishmen, who are generally afraid of being cheated, and take the alarm before there is any real danger."

The driver stopped before the Church of St. Paul, and the passengers alighted. There was nothing worthy of note in the church; but outside of it, in a kind of garden, one of the most singular and remarkable exhibitions is open to the visitor. It is called "Calvary," and is a representation of the "several stages," as they are termed, in the life of Christ. An artificial mound is raised on the side next to the church edifice, which is covered with a kind of rock-work, in imitation of Mount Calvary. In various parts of the area are placed the statues of saints, angels, patriarchs, and prophets.

On the summit of the mound is represented the crucifixion, with a figure of the Savior on the cross. At the foot of it is the sepulchre, which is claimed to be a perfect copy of the Holy Sepulchre at Jerusalem, though travellers who have seen it say it bears no resemblance whatever to the original. In the tomb, on a kind of shelf, rests the crucified Christ, represented by a figure clothed in silk and muslin!

Near the tomb an ideal of Purgatory is exhibited, consisting of wood carvings. The making-up of the scene appears to be a kind of cage, like those one sees in a menagerie, with bars in front of it to prevent the escape of the unhappy mortals temporarily confined there. Within the den are carved and painted several figures of men, in the midst of darting, leaping flames, upon whose faces there is an expression of intense anguish. Doubtless the intention of those who conceived this astounding exhibition was to impress upon the mind of the spectator the sufferings of the unrepentant wicked. It is hardly possible that this effect could ever have been produced upon the minds of sensible men. The spectacle is not only in exceedingly bad taste, but it is positively repulsive, not to say sacrilegious.

Such was the opinion of Paul Kendall, who could hardly conceal his disgust; and ten minutes in the place exhausted his patience. He was silent, so deep was his feeling of dissatisfaction, until he was again seated in the voiture. The next objects of interest were the docks and basins, which were reached after a short drive from St. Paul's. They merely passed along the quay, making no stop, as the works could be seen from the carriage.

"That is the house of the Hanseatic League," said the doctor, pointing to a large ancient building.

"What is the Hanseatic League?" asked Paul, who had never even heard of it.

"It was a commercial alliance between some of the cities of Germany for the protection and development of their trade. It had its origin in the thirteenth century, for the purpose of preventing piracy and shipwreck, and to encourage commerce, and, indeed, all branches of industry. It established great warehouses or factories in different parts of Europe, and became an exceedingly powerful association, so much so that it dictated the policy of sovereigns on their thrones, and even declared and carried on war with several of the powers of Europe. In the fourteenth century, the League defeated the King of Norway and Sweden. It unseated the King of Sweden, and gave his crown to another, and having declared war against Denmark, sent a fleet of two hundred and fifty ships, and thousands of troops to carry it on. In fact, the association prepared for war with England, and Edward IV. made important concessions to avoid it. Of course the crowned heads were jealous of its power and influence, and it was eventually broken up; but it laid the foundation of the commercial policy of the nations. The League died out in 1630; but Hamburg, Lubec, and Bremen formed a new one, under the name of the Hanse Towns; and Frankfort-on-the-Main afterwards joined them."

"I have heard of the Hanse Towns," added Paul; "but I never knew what the term meant before."

"The docks and basins here are mainly the work of Napoleon. The great conqueror intended to make Antwerp the first seaport of the north. The mouth of the Thames is less than a hundred miles from the mouth of the Scheldt, and he knew that, with a naval station equal to any in the possession of England, he could, in time of war, cripple or destroy the commerce of his great rival. He expended ten millions of dollars on these docks, basins, and fortifications. The English were alarmed, and in 1809 sent the Walcheren expedition, which obtained a foothold on that island, but were defeated by disease and death, for seven thousand British soldiers perished by marsh fever. By the peace of Paris in 1814, after the battle of Waterloo, it was stipulated that the dock-yards should be destroyed, for they were a standing threat to the maritime powers; but these basins were preserved for commercial purposes. The largest one will accommodate thirty-four ships of the line."

The travellers continued on their way through some of the principal streets till they arrived at the Church of St. Jacques, which is richer in its ornaments than the Cathedral, containing exquisitely wrought marbles, carved wood, painted glass. This magnificent church contains the burial vaults of the noble families of the city, and among them that of Rubens, which is marked by a white marble tablet with a long inscription upon it, embedded in the pavement of his private chapel. The Holy Family, which forms the altar-piece of the church, was painted by the great master. In 1793, when the mob, incited by the furious spirit of the French Revolution, broke into the church, pillaging altars and tombs alike, that of Rubens was spared from desecration by the universal respect for his memory, though not another tomb in St. Jacques escaped their impious touch.

The house of Rubens, situated in a street of the same name, was visited; an outside view of the Bourse, or Exchange, the Hotel de Ville, or Town Hall, and of other public buildings, was obtained. The Citadel, built under the direction of the cruel Duke of Alva, to overawe the rebellious Antwerpers, was an object of interest. After the expulsion of the Spaniards in 1577, the people, including those of high and low degree, men, women, and children, assisted in its demolition; but it was speedily rebuilt, and has played an important part in subsequent sieges and insurrections. The city is surrounded by a continuous line of fortifications and ditches, extending from a point on the river below the city to a point above it; and outside of this line there are a number of detached forts to keep a hostile force from approaching near enough to the city to shell it.

When the carriage reached the Quai Vandyck, most of the students had returned, and the boats were in waiting. They chattered like magpies about the wonders they had seen. When Captain Kendall went on board, the mail-bag was handed to him, and the boys were eager to obtain their letters from home and elsewhere.

"A letter for you, Mr. Hamblin," said the captain, as he handed the professor a formidable envelope, postmarked "Anvers."

The learned gentleman seemed to be astonished, and bore the missive to his state-room.



CHAPTER IX.

TROUBLE ON BOARD THE JOSEPHINE.

Almost every one on board of the Josephine had a letter, and some had two or three. Paul had one from Grace, dated at Paris, in which she expressed a hope that, as she was to travel a few months with her father, she might see him in some of her wanderings. The young captain hoped so too, and he read the letter a second time. Probably he read it a third time after he went to his state-room, and a fourth before he retired; for boys of his age are apt to be enthusiastic in this direction.

Professor Stoute sat in the cabin. He had been all over Antwerp, and had walked a larger part of the distance than a man of his obesity could well endure in a warm day. Though he was very tired, he was very good-natured; indeed, thus far, nothing had ever occurred to disturb his equanimity. He was exceedingly popular with the boys, and if he had fallen overboard, every one of them would have jumped in after him. No one ever thought of disobeying him, and consequently he never had any trouble.

While he sat there fanning himself with a newspaper, Mr. Hamblin came out of his state-room with the huge envelope he had received in his hand. The learned gentleman looked perplexed; in fact, he always wore an anxious expression, as though he were in constant fear that somebody would infringe upon his dignity, or that some of the boys did not believe he was the wisest man since the days of Solomon. He always walked just so; he always sat just so; he always moved just so. He never was guilty of using a doubtful expression. He was stern, rigid, and precise, and from the beginning all the boys had disliked him; but since he had behaved so unreasonably in the squall, they could hardly endure him.

The lean professor walked up to the fat professor, and took a stand before him. He had removed the letter from the formidable envelope, and held it unfolded in his hand. He looked at the letter, and then at Mr. Stoute. The fat professor laughed, but the lean professor frowned. The jolly one knew just what the precise one wanted, but he waited patiently for the exordium.

"Mr. Stoute, may I trouble you?" he began, after he had put himself in proper position.

"Certainly, sir," replied the fat gentleman.

"If this letter had been written in Greek or Latin, I could have read it," continued Mr. Hamblin, glancing at the sheet.

"Precisely so; if it had been written in Greek or Latin I could not read it," laughed Mr. Stoute.

"My French, as I have had occasion to acknowledge to you with deep humiliation, has been neglected for more important studies. This letter appears to have been written by some distinguished person, but unfortunately he has chosen to indite it in French."

"In a word, you wish me to read it to you."

"That is what I was about to request of you. May I ask you to retire with me to our state-room?" continued Professor Hamblin, glancing at the officers who were reading their letters in the cabin.

"Excuse me, Mr. Hamblin; you forget that I carry round with me two hundred and odd pounds of flesh, besides bone and muscle, and that I have been on my feet three hours. I think, sir, if I knew this vessel was going to the bottom of the Scheldt this instant, I should go down with her rather than move. Have me excused, I pray you, and have compassion on mine infirmities," laughed Mr. Stoute.

Mr. Hamblin was vexed, but he gave the letter to his associate, who turned the sheet and glanced at the signature.

"Ah!" exclaimed he, looking at Mr. Hamblin.

"What is it? Do me the favor to read it," replied the learned gentleman, impatiently.

"It is from Monsieur Charles Rogier, the president of the council, and minister of foreign affairs," added Professor Stoute. "He is the man who organized the revolution of 1830, and the greatest man in Belgium, King Leopold excepted."

"Is it possible!" ejaculated Mr. Hamblin, struggling to keep down the smile in which his vanity sought to manifest itself. "What does he say?"

"He says that just as he was leaving Antwerp for Brussels, he heard that the very learned and distinguished Professor Hamblin was on board of a vessel at anchor in the river."

"Does he say that?" asked the learned gentleman, who, knowing that Mr. Stoute had a horrid vein of humor running through his fat frame, had, perhaps, a suspicion that he was making fun at his expense.

"That is precisely what it says."

"How should Mr. Rogier know me?" queried Mr. Hamblin.

"I was about to read his explanation on that point: he says he heard of you through a friend who was in London a few weeks since. He wished to see you and extend to you a welcome to the kingdom of Belgium; but the command of his royal master required him to leave Antwerp by the next train; and he was deprived of the pleasure of extending to you in person the expression of his distinguished consideration. He hopes when you visit Brussels you will do him the honor to call upon him at the Palais de la Nation, Rue de la Soie."

"Humph!" ejaculated the learned professor, prolonging the interjection, and trying to suppress the smile which had a sad tendency to overwhelm his dignity.

"You are fortunate, Mr. Hamblin," added Mr. Stoute; "of course he will present you to King Leopold."

"Possibly," replied the Greek savant, stroking his chin, and frowning, to counteract the sinister influence of the smile he could not wholly overcome.

Mr. Hamblin took the letter and read the signature. It was certainly "Charles Rogier," with a flourish extensive enough for any great man. From the letter he glanced at the fat professor, who, being always good-natured, was so now. He could not get rid of a lingering suspicion that his undignified associate was imposing upon him. It was a great misfortune that his own knowledge of French was so limited, and if it had not been so late, he would have gone on board of the ship to ask Professor Badois to translate the epistle to him.

Instead of doing this, he went to the record book of the Josephine, and ascertained that Duncan was marked among the highest in French. Now Duncan was a very polite and respectful student, and Mr. Hamblin had a greater regard for him than for most of his companions. Finding this promising young man on deck, he invited him to the sacred precincts of the professor's state-room. Duncan was even more polite and obliging than usual. At the request of his present host, who did not offer any explanations, he wrote out a translation of the important letter. Mr. Hamblin thanked him, and he retired.

There was no material difference between the translations of Mr. Stoute and Duncan, and the learned professor congratulated himself upon the distinction he had attained. His fame as a savant had preceded him across the ocean. The king's chief minister courted his acquaintance. This was the homage which greatness paid to learning, and Mr. Hamblin was willing to believe that it was a deserved tribute. He soon worked himself into a flutter of excitement, in anticipation of being taken by the hand by the king's chief minister, and he slept but little during the night, so absorbed was he in the contemplation of the distinguished honor which awaited him.

"Professor Hamblin is going to court," said Duncan to his old friend the captain, when they met on deck after supper.

"To court whom?" laughed Paul.

"He has had an invitation to go to court to see the big bugs. I translated a letter for him from the minister of foreign affairs; and I suppose he's about the biggest toad in the Belgian puddle," added Duncan. "You won't be able to touch him with a ten-foot pole after that."

"We shall get along very well with him, if we only do our duty," said Paul.

"The fellows are not very fond of him; and if he puts on any more airs, they won't be able to stand it."

"Why, what's the matter, Duncan? asked Paul, anxiously, for generally everything had gone on so well on board of the Josephine, that he dreaded any trouble.

"O, nothing, nothing!" laughed Duncan; "only the fellows don't like him."

"Ben, there's something up," said Paul, earnestly. "If the fellows think anything at all of me, they won't make any trouble. If I don't complain of Mr. Hamblin, they needn't."

"I don't find any fault with him myself," protested Ben. "I don't like him, but I have always got along very well with him."

"What did you mean by mentioning this matter to me, Ben?" asked Paul.

"Nothing; only I shouldn't be surprised if the fellows were to haze the venerable patriarch a little in a quiet way. They are all down upon him."

"I am sorry for that. I hope all the fellows will do their duty, and not get into any scrapes, replied Paul, very seriously.

"I am sorry, but I can't say that I blame them much."

"I shall blame them if they commit any act of disrespect," said the captain, decidedly. "I hope you will say what you can forward to keep the fellows from doing anything that would hurt Mr. Hamblin's feelings."

"What can I do? The old fossil doesn't treat the students like gentlemen; and if he behaves so, what can you expect of the fellows? He is cross, crabbed, and tyrannical."

"Have they just found it out?"

"No, but they were willing to bear it rather than make any trouble on board. After what he did last Saturday, they are not disposed to be so patient; and I can't blame them much."

"What happened last Saturday was between Mr. Hamblin and me, and the students needn't trouble themselves about that."

"But the fellows all like you first rate, even the worst ones we have on board; and there are some pretty hard boys here," laughed Duncan.

"If they like me, they will not get up a row."

"I will take care that all of them know just how you feel," said Duncan, concluding to end the conversation at this point, for the subject of these remarks had just come on deck.

The learned gentleman appeared to carry his head even higher, and to be more dignified, stiff, and reserved, than usual. With an invitation in his pocket to visit the greatest statesman in Belgium, he felt like a very exalted personage; for not even Mr. Lowington had been so highly favored. Mr. Hamblin was puffed up and swelled out by the honor the great man had done him, and as he walked up and down the deck, the students might have known by his air, if they had not been told of the fact, that greatness had suddenly been thrust upon him.

It presently occurred to him that the principal had not been informed of the distinguished consideration in which the government of Belgium regarded the Josephine's senior instructor. It was important that he should know it, for the fact would certainly elevate him in the estimation of the principal, and cause him to regret that in the recent difficulty he had not more fully sustained his notable professor. Besides, he wished to make some arrangements which would permit him to visit the Palais de la Nation, and to dine with the minister, if he should be invited, as he had no doubt he should be.

With as much sternness on his wrinkled face as he could assume, he walked forward to demand a boat of Captain Kendall. As he was passing in the waist, a coil of signal line dropped down from the gaff above, square upon the top of his hat, forcing it far down upon his head. Mr. Hamblin immediately threw himself into an undignified passion. When he had with some difficulty extricated his head from the linings of his hat, he looked up to see who had been guilty of this act of flagrant disrespect.

"I beg your pardon, Mr. Hamblin," shouted Grimme, a seaman, whose legs were twined around the end of the gaff, while he was in the act of passing a signal halyard through an eye.

The captain had received orders from the principal to have the Josephine ready for the visit of a distinguished person on the following day, and Mr. Cleats was preparing to dress the rigging.

"You scoundrel!" roared Mr. Hamblin, gazing up at the unfortunate youth who had been the cause of his misfortune.

"Did it hurt you, sir?" asked Paul, stepping up to the professor.

"Was that done by your order, Mr. Kendall?" demanded the irate savant.

"No, sir; it was not," replied Paul, blushing with indignation at such an insinuation.

"It is very singular that the rope should fall just at the moment I was passing," added Mr. Hamblin, sourly, as he straightened out his crumpled tile.

"I am sorry it occurred, sir," said Paul, who uttered no more than the literal truth.

Mr. Hamblin glanced around the deck at the students who were collected there. They did not seem to be sorry; on the contrary, there was a look of diabolical satisfaction in the expression of most of them, and not a few were actually laughing.

"I demand the immediate punishment of the offender," said Mr. Hamblin, irritated by this manifestation on the part of the students.

By this time Grimme had descended from his perilous perch, having completed the reeving of the halyard. Without a moment's delay, he hastened to the spot where the angry man stood, and touched his cap with the utmost deference.

"I beg your pardon, Mr. Hamblin. I hope you will excuse me," said Grimme, who really wore a very troubled look.

"You did it on purpose, you scoundrel!" growled the professor, savagely; for he could not fail to see the ill-suppressed chuckling of the students in the waist.

"No, sir! I did not, sir!" protested Grimme. "I had the end in my mouth, and was just going to drop the coil when I saw you."

"And you did drop it when you saw me."

"I did not mean to drop it then. I was going to wait till you had passed; but my foot slipped, and, in catching hold of the gaff with my hand, I let go the coil. If I hadn't dropped it, I should have fallen myself," replied Grimme, who seemed determined to make the explanation strong enough to meet the emergency.

"I don't believe a word of it! You meant to insult me!" exclaimed Mr. Hamblin, still goaded on to intemperate speech by the ill-concealed jeers of the students. "Mr. Kendall, it is your duty to punish that insolent fellow."

"I will inquire into the matter, sir. If it appears that he did the act on purpose, he shall certainly be punished," replied Paul, who, after his conversation with Duncan, could not help suspecting that this was the first step in the hazing process to which his friend had alluded.

"Inquire into it!" sneered Mr. Hamblin, with deep disgust. "I complain of the boy: that is enough."

Paul did not think so; but he made no reply to the angry man, though he ordered the alleged culprit to the mainmast, which is the locality of the high court on shipboard.

"Mr. Kendall, I desire to have the gig, for the purpose of visiting the ship."

"The gig, sir!" exclaimed Paul, to whom the professors were not in the habit of designating which boat they would have.

"I said the gig, sir," repeated Mr. Hamblin, loftily.

"I beg your pardon, sir; but the gig is the captain's boat," replied Paul, with deference.

"The captain's boat!" puffed the professor.

"Mr. Lowington directed me to use the first cutter for the professors," added Paul.

"Am I to understand that you again refuse me a boat?"

"No, sir; by no means," said the captain, ready to weep with vexation at these disagreeable incidents.

He turned from Mr. Hamblin, and directed the first lieutenant to pipe away the first cutters; and in a few moments the boat was ready. The fourth lieutenant was sent in charge of the cutter. The professor went over the side into the boat; and as he made no objections, the officers concluded that he did not know the difference between the gig and the first cutter. At certain stages of the tide, there is a three-mile current in the Scheldt, with strong eddies, formed by the sweep of the river. By a miscalculation of the coxswain, the cutter fell astern of the ship, and had to pull up to her, which prolonged the passage somewhat, thereby increasing the ill nature and impatience of Mr. Hamblin.

"In bows!" said the coxswain, as the boat approached the ship; and the two bowmen tossed their oars and boated them, taking position in the bow-grating, with the boat-hooks in their hands.

"Way enough!" added the coxswain; and the rest of the crew tossed their oars.

At the gangway of the ship stairs had been rigged, at the foot of which there was a platform, for the convenience of those boarding or leaving the ship by the boats. The bowmen fastened their boat-hooks upon the platform, in readiness to haul the boat alongside, so that the passenger could step out without inconvenience. But the current was strong, and some delay ensued.

"There! let me get out!" exclaimed Mr. Hamblin, rising in the boat, and walking between the oarsmen to the bow.

"Steady, sir!" said Humphreys, the officer, as he took the arm of the professor, to prevent him from falling.

"Pull the boat up, so I can step out!" said Mr. Hamblin, impatiently, to the bowmen.

They were hauling her up closer to the platform, against the strong current, which, being in a direction contrary to the wind, made considerable sea, causing the boat to roll and jerk uneasily. When she was within a couple of feet of the platform, the professor attempted to step out.

"Steady, sir!" said Morgan, one of the bowmen, as Mr. Hamblin was about to take the step; but at that instant the boat receded from the platform, and the learned gentleman, with one foot on the plank and the other on the bow of the boat, made a very long straddle, toppled over into the water, and disappeared in the eddies.

"My boat-hook broke!" protested Morgan, holding up the implement, from which the iron had drawn out; and after what had occurred on board of the consort, he probably deemed it necessary to make an immediate defence.

"Man overboard!" shouted several students in the ship; and immediately there was an immense commotion on board of her.

Mr. Hamblin rose to the surface an instant later, and shouted for help. The accident was observed from the Josephine, and the gig piped away in double quick time.

"Up oars! Let fall! Give way!" shouted Robinson, in the first cutter, as she drifted away from the gangway of the ship, without waiting for the orders to be repeated by the coxswain.

A few vigorous strokes of the oars brought the cutter to the spot where the professor was struggling with the dirty current. The bowmen seized him by the collar, and the crew, after no little labor, owing to the excitement of the unfortunate gentleman, succeeded in getting him into the boat. He was placed in the stern sheets, and Robinson afforded him such assistance as the circumstances would permit.

The gig, with Paul and Pelham on board, was darting through the current towards the first cutter. It was too late to be of any service; but it continued on its way, and the captain manifested his interest and sympathy as well as he could. Mr. Hamblin pressed the water from his hair, wiped his face with his wet handkerchief, and otherwise endeavored to remove the effects of his involuntary bath. He seemed to be, thus far, no worse for the disaster; but he directed Robinson to return directly to the Josephine, for obvious reasons.

The two boats came alongside together; and this time the professor, notwithstanding the discomfort of his condition, made no undue haste to leave the cutter before she was properly secured.

"I am very sorry indeed for your misfortune, sir," said Paul, politely, when he met Mr. Hamblin on deck.

"Perhaps you are!" replied he, rushing down the cabin stairs, bestowing hardly a glance upon the sympathizing commander.

He went to his state-room, and made an entire change of his clothing. The weather was warm, and he suffered no serious consequences.

"You are a very unfortunate person, Mr. Hamblin," said his associate instructor, when the savant, clean and dry, emerged from the state-room.

"It was done on purpose, Mr. Stoute," replied he, solemnly, with compressed lips.

"O, no! It couldn't be!" protested the fat professor. "You are simply unfortunate. First, a coil of rope falls on your head, and then you fall overboard. You should be careful."

"Has that student been punished for throwing the rope upon me?"

"No, sir. I stood by during the investigation at the mainmast. It could not be proved that the act was done on purpose; and, for my part, I did not believe it was."

"I am very confident it was. I can read the expression on the faces of the boys; and I am certain there is a conspiracy among them to knock out my brains or drown me in the river."

"Boys will be boys, and they are very prone to look at the ludicrous aspect of an accident," added the stout professor. "I should not give a serious interpretation to any little signs of mirth I happened to see."

"Mr. Stoute, you allow yourself to be hoodwinked, deceived, overwhelmed, by these artful boys. You should maintain more dignity in your intercourse with them."

"There is a true and a false dignity, Mr. Hamblin. I shall endeavor to avoid the one, and cling to the other," replied Mr. Stoute, warmly, but good-naturedly.

"You are aware that I asked for the gig before I started for the ship?" continued Mr. Hamblin, impressively.

"I am; and I was also aware that the first cutter had been appropriated to the use of the instructors."

"I demanded the gig. It was refused. What did that mean?"

"It meant just what the captain said—that the principal required him to furnish the first cutter for our use."

"That is not what it meant," persisted Mr. Hamblin. "The crew of the first cutter had been instructed to tip me into the river. When I called for the gig, it deranged the plan. I am only sorry that I did not refuse to take the cutter, and insist upon having the gig; but I do not wish to make trouble."

"But why did you ask for the gig?"

"Because I saw Morgan, who, I knew, belonged in the cutter, laughing when the rope fell on my head. He would as lief drown me as not."

"I think you misjudge the boys."

"I am surprised that one who has been a teacher as long as you have does not understand boys any better," replied Mr. Hamblin, coldly. "I am satisfied that Kendall is at the bottom of all this mischief."

"I am very sure he is not," said Mr. Stoute, decidedly.

"The crew of the cutter had been prepared for their work."

It was surprising that two men who had been among boys so long took such opposite views of them; but the difference of opinion was more in the men than in the boys.

These events were the staple of conversation on deck and in the steerage among the crew; and some of the better boys heard certain indefinite remarks about "the first step" and "the second step," used by "our fellows;" but no real friend of law and order discovered anything which threw any new light upon the two misfortunes that had overtaken the senior professor, though there was a suspicion that these were the first and second steps hinted at by the doubtful ones.



CHAPTER X.

WHO WAS CAPTAIN OF THE JOSEPHINE?

Mr. Hamblin, as before intimated, did not sleep well on the night in question. The burden of being called to the state department, and even to the royal palaces of Belgium, was very trying to his nerves. When he slept, it was only to dream of the great statesman and revolutionary leader of the Low Countries, in the act of taking him by the hand or of presenting him to his majesty Leopold, "Roi de Belge."

He prepared himself with great care, in his reflections, for the stupendous occasion. He studied up courtly bows, and imagined just how he would look when in the act of making one of them. He pictured to himself various graceful gestures which he intended to use, in order to impress upon the great man the dignity of his character. He arranged the little tableau of his presentation to the king, with all the speeches, interludes, and movements. If the king said certain things, he should say certain other things in reply; and when the interview ended, he was with becoming grace to back out of the royal presence.

Leopold, "Roi de Belge," would probably inform him that he had, either directly or through his faithful minister, heard of the distinguished Greek savant; that he had seen or heard of the Greek Grammar he had published, the Greek Reader he had compiled, and the Anabasis he had edited and annotated. It was more than probable that there were copies of these learned and valuable works in the Royal Library; for no library could be complete without them. If they were there, the king would graciously inform him of the fact, as the highest compliment that could be paid to his fame as a Greek scholar. To all this, with his left hand upon his heart, with his right extended, palm prone, at an angle of forty-five degrees with his perpendicular, his body bent in a courteous but dignified bow, he was to reply that his majesty did him too much honor. It would be necessary to deprecate, in some degree, the distinguished consideration awarded to him, and to declare his own unworthiness of the king's notice and favor.

Then, perhaps, the royal Leopold would present him a snuff-box, studded with pearls, diamonds, and rubies,—monarchs have a habit of presenting snuffboxes to men who do not take snuff,—in token of his princely appreciation of the learning of the distinguished American professor. Or, perhaps, "Le Roi de Belge" would inform him that he desired to promote the study of the Greek language and literature in his kingdom, and that he was graciously pleased to appoint him Inspector of Greek, or Librarian of the Greek portion of the Royal Library, with no active duty but that of collecting his salary of twenty thousand francs—liberal princes, as rich as Leopold was reputed to be, often spent their money more foolishly than this, in rewarding distinguished men of learning.

The learned gentleman did not feel a very strong confidence that the king would thus reward his forty years' patient study of the Greek; but if he should conclude to behave in this rather erratic but highly honorable manner, it would give him a pleasant opportunity of waiting upon Mr. Lowington in his cabin, and politely informing him that he could no longer endure the insults of the Josephines, or countenance their want of appreciation of the privilege of having such a professor of Greek as he was; and that he felt compelled to resign his present position, in order that "Le Roi de Belge" might avail himself of his valuable services.

It would be delightful to make such a call upon the principal of the academy squadron. It would be a grand occasion for a display of dignity. He did not feel that such a pleasant event was likely to occur; but it was not impossible. The fame of his Grammar and other works might have come over the Atlantic while he was transplanting Greek roots in the hard heads of stupid boys. He felt that he deserved some higher token of public appreciation than had yet been bestowed upon him. Why should the Secretary of Foreign Affairs send an autograph letter to him, unless some especial notice was to be taken of him?

An audible voice seemed to say, "Go up higher, friend;" but, alas! that was only the snoring of Professor Stoute, in the berth above him, which his fancy had incorporated into words. There was no voice—only the guttural sounds of his obese room-mate, who was so tired that he breathed with unwonted labor in his sleep. There was no poetry in the snoring of his companion, and the vision was rudely dissolved by the reality. But the invitation to go to court was in his pocket: he could not be cheated out of that, or of his brilliant expectations. Leopold might do the handsome thing, at least as to the snuff-box. It was rather awkward, in view of the approaching interview, that he could not speak French; but the king had lived in London for a time, and doubtless spoke English fluently. Of course the Minister of Foreign Affairs could speak English; but even if he did not, they could meet on the same level in Latin or Greek.

Professor Hamblin did not sleep very well; and he did not sleep any better because Mr. Stoute slept so well, and made the state-room sonorous with the richest base snoring that ever tormented a nervous man. Indeed, the heavy sleeper made it so lively for the light sleeper that the latter was two or three times goaded to the alternative of waking the former, or abandoning the room.

In the course of the night the learned professor had polished up all his little speeches to be recited before the minister, and probably before the king; had nicely adjusted all his bows and gestures, and laid up a magazine of expedients for possible emergencies, such as the presence of the Duke of Brabant, Prince Leopold, and even of "La Reine de Belge;" but the dreamer was glad when the morning came; for the night had been very long, though he had probably slept three quarters of the time; gladder still when he heard the water splashing on the deck above him, as the watch washed down the quarter-deck, for now he could get up. He did get up, and went out to taste the freshness of the early air.

The young seamen had finished their labor on the quarters, and were at work in the waist. A kind of force-pump, or fire-engine, was attached to the Josephine, to save labor in washing down the decks, and to be used in case of fire below. It was provided with a sufficient length of hose to reach all parts of the vessel, and was worked by a single brake, manned by four hands. With this apparatus the boys were deluging the decks with water, one of them holding the pipe, and half a dozen scrubbing the planks with long-handled brushes.

A fire-engine, or indeed anything that will squirt, is a great luxury to the boys, with whom "running with the machine" is a constitutional tendency. The novelty of the Josephine's force-pump had not yet worn away, and it contributed in no small degree to alleviate the hard and ungentlemanly labor of washing down decks.

Mr. Hamblin was not a boy, and he had a constitutional dislike of fire-engines and all hydraulic apparatus, partly, perhaps, because the boys liked it. The quarter-deck was still wet with the drenching it had received, and the professor did not like to dampen his feet on the one hand, or retreat to the close cabin on the other. He did what Americans are very apt to do when situated between the two horns of a dilemma—he compromised between the difficulties by seating himself on the fife-rail between a couple of belaying-pins. He was careful to place himself abaft the mainmast, so that the wicked engine would not spatter him.

He sat on the fife-rail and began to think of the king and the minister again; but his reflections this time were very brief, and if his fancy burned again with glowing anticipation, the flame was suddenly quenched by a stream of water directed at the foot of the mast, which spattered his lower extremities very badly.

"What are you about, you rascal?" roared the learned gentleman, springing from his perch to the deck.

But it would have been better for him to remain where he was, for the instant his feet struck the deck, the full force of the stream from the hose-pipe saluted him squarely in the face, filling his mouth with water, and well nigh overthrowing him with its violence. This was a sad accident. McDougal, one of the quartermasters, held the pipe. At the moment the professor sprang from the fife-rail, the hoseman was looking behind him, his attention having been called away from his work by a remark of one of the hands at the brake.

"What do you mean, you rascal?" sputtered Mr. Hamblin, attempting to free his mouth of the dirty Scheldt water which had been forced into it.

"That's number three," whispered one of the brake-men to another.

"Hush up!" replied the one addressed, from the corner of his mouth.

McDougal dropped the hose, and rushed aft to the place where the unhappy savant stood.

"You impertinent puppy!" cried Mr. Hamblin, soiling his white handkerchief with the foul water upon his face.

"O, dear! What have I done!" groaned McDougal, clasping his hands in an agony of dismay. "I beg your pardon! I didn't see you, sir. O, what have I done!" And the wretched hoseman actually threw himself on his knees upon the wet deck, and implored the forgiveness of the injured magnate of the school-room.

"You meant to do it!" exclaimed the implacable pedagogue.

"No, sir! Indeed, I did not! Won't you forgive me?" pleaded McDougal, still upon his knees.

"What does all this mean?" demanded Pelham, who was officer of the deck, as he rushed to the spot from the topgallant forecastle, where he had gone to keep out of the way of the splashing waters.

"O, Mr. Pelham," groaned the hoseman, "I am so sorry!"

"Get up!" said Pelham to the culprit, sternly, for anything like servility was very disgusting to him, and probably he had his own views in regard to Mr. Hamblin.

McDougal obeyed this imperative command, and though, ordinarily, a young man of nerve and of much self-possession, he appeared to be trembling with apprehension. His lips quivered, his knees smote against each other, and he stood wringing his hands, apparently in the most abject terror.

"I didn't mean to do it, Mr. Pelham," chattered the miserable hoseman.

"Mr. Pelham, in my opinion this act was deliberately contrived and carried out," said Mr. Hamblin, severely, though he was evidently somewhat moved by the misery of the culprit.

"I am very sorry for it, sir, whether it was done on purpose or by accident," replied Pelham. "Where were you, sir, when it happened?"

"I was sitting on that frame," answered Mr. Hamblin, pointing to the place.

"On the fife-rail?"

"Yes; if that is the name of the frame."

"Yes, sir; and he was behind the mast, and I didn't see him," pleaded McDougal. "I saw some dirt on deck at the foot of the mast, and I threw the stream there. I couldn't see Mr. Hamblin—indeed I couldn't, sir."

"I would not complain of the act if that had been all, for I was simply spattered; but when I stepped down, the stream was directed full into my face."

"I didn't mean to do it, sir. One of the brake-men hollered to me, and I turned to see what he wanted, and when I did so, I raised up the hose; and I suppose that's what made the stream hit Mr. Hamblin in the face," groaned McDougal.

"Yes, sir," interposed the brakeman, who had designated the act as "number three." "I saw Mr. Hamblin, and I sung out to McDougal to turn the hose. He turned round and asked me what I said, and before I could answer Mr. Hamblin cried out to him."

"So far as I can see, it appears to be an accident, sir," added Pelham; "but I will report it to the captain."

"O, Mr. Pelham, don't report me to the captain!" begged McDougal. "He will send me back to the ship. I didn't mean to do it; it was an accident."

"It is useless to report it to the captain," said the professor, with a palpable sneer.

"Thank you, sir; you will forgive me, sir?" moaned the culprit.

"I am willing to forgive you if it was an accident," replied the savant, more graciously.

"It was an accident, sir."

"It is very singular that so many accidents happen to me," said the professor, knitting his brow, and looking very savage, when he recalled the events of the preceding evening. "This is the third time within half a day that an accident has occurred to me."

Mr. Hamblin walked off, and descended to the cabin to change his clothes again. The suit in which he had fallen overboard had been dried at the cook's galley, and was in condition for use. While changing his garments, he recited to Mr. Stoute the new misfortune that had overtaken him.

Pelham sharply questioned the hands who had been concerned in the outrage; but McDougal, who appeared to be the only one implicated in the deed, protested that the circumstances were just as he had stated them; nothing could be proved, for the boys all agreed in their statements. The case was therefore dismissed, to be called up again by the captain, if he thought proper to do so. McDougal walked forward to pick up the hose-pipe again, and as he met the brakeman who had exhibited some intelligence before, he gave him a very sly wink.

The officer of the watch was more than suspicious. He was an old hand at mischief himself, and not easily hoodwinked by "our fellows." He could not help thinking that McDougal had overdone his part, for a bold young man, like him, would not behave so much like a coward under any circumstances. Just before breakfast time the captain and first lieutenant came on deck together, and Pelham reported "number three" to them.

"It was not an accident," exclaimed Paul, indignantly.

"I don't think it was myself," replied Pelham. "But at the same time, what can you do? You can't prove that it was done on purpose."

"I had a hint from Duncan that the fellows intended to haze Mr. Hamblin, and if this thing isn't stopped in the beginning, there is no knowing where it will end," continued Paul, decidedly. "You will pipe to muster the first thing after breakfast, Mr. Terrill."

The young commander was entirely satisfied in his own mind that the unpleasant incident of the morning was a part of the hazing programme, if the two on the preceding evening were not. He had already decided to take prompt action, and put a stop to the disgraceful proceedings.

After breakfast, agreeably to the order, all hands were piped to muster. The two professors had come on deck to ascertain the cause of this movement. They had had a long talk together about the second drenching of the senior, and Mr. Stoute was obliged to conclude that the deed had been wilfully done. He acknowledged as much as this, and felt, as the captain did, that prompt action was necessary; but to his surprise, Mr. Hamblin took opposite ground towards the latter part of the interview, and declared that McDougal, on his knees, had begged his pardon. The learned gentleman appeared to be determined to keep his opinion at variance with that of his associate.

Mr. Hamblin was one of those old fogies who could not appreciate manliness in a boy. He demanded abject servility and pusillanimous crouching on the part of an offender. When he frowned, the boy ought to wither with fear rather than with the consciousness of guilt. McDougal had thrown himself into a becoming attitude, in his estimation; had groaned, trembled, and cringed. He was willing to forgive McDougal, and had intimated as much as this to him before he left the deck.

The young commander took his place on the hatch, and made quite a telling speech in regard to what he termed the disgraceful proceeding which had occurred on board. He solemnly warned the boys that he would not tolerate anything irregular and disorderly.

"Mr. Terrill, you will pipe away the second cutters," he continued, turning to the first lieutenant.

The crew of the boat were piped away, the cutter lowered, and they took their places in her. The second lieutenant was detailed to take charge of her, and waited near the captain for his orders.

"Pass the word for McDougal," added the captain, when the second cutter was ready, as he stepped down from the hatch, and stood at the foot of the mainmast.

The culprit came forward, and touched his cap to the captain.

"For your conduct this morning to Mr. Hamblin I shall send you on board of the ship," said Paul, in firm and decided tones.

"I couldn't help it, Captain Kendall," pleaded McDougal; but he exhibited none of the servility which had characterized his demeanor to the professor; he knew the captain too well to resort to such an expedient.

"Perhaps you could not," replied Paul, pointedly. "Perhaps you could not; but you were very careless."

"I didn't mean to do it," added McDougal.

"I do not say that you did. If the professor cannot walk the deck without being drenched with water, it is time those who are so careless should be sent out of the Josephine."

"Mr. Hamblin was behind the mast, and I thought he had gone below, sir."

"I have no time nor inclination to argue the matter. If you think any injustice has been done to you, the principal will hear your complaint, and I shall be as willing as you are to abide by his decision. Mr. Martyn, you will report the case as it is to Mr. Lowington. McDougal, consider yourself under arrest, and take your place in the boat."

The culprit wanted to say something more, but Paul ordered him into the boat with an emphasis which he did not deem it prudent to disregard.

"Captain Kendall," said Professor Hamblin, stepping up to the young commander, "I request that you will detain that boat for a moment or two."

"Certainly, sir, if you desire it," replied Paul, giving the necessary order.

"May I ask for a few moments' private conversation with you?" added the professor, as he led the way aft.

The learned gentleman seemed to be considerably excited, and conducted the captain to the taffrail.

"I protest against your action in this matter," said he, warmly, when they were out of hearing of others.

"Indeed, sir! I supposed you would protest if I did not take decided action."

"I am sorry to feel obliged to say, that you do not use good judgment in this case," continued Mr. Hamblin, solemnly. "When that rope was thrown upon me, you took no notice of it. I do not hear that the crew of the first cutter have been called to account for their carelessness in throwing me into the water last night; but, in this instance, where the guilty party has begged my pardon on his bended knees, and shown a degree of sorrow which it would be inhuman to disregard, you resort to the severest punishment known on board."

"You will excuse me, Mr. Hamblin, but I think my action is fully justified by the circumstances."

"I think not. You are extremely severe in this case, while the more flagrant act of throwing me into the river, whether it was a wilful or a careless one, was passed over in silence."

"It was not passed over in silence. I examined the officer of the boat, and I found that the accident was caused by the breaking of a boat-hook in the hands of one of the bowmen. If you will pardon me for being entirely candid with you, Mr. Hamblin, the mishap was caused by your own carelessness, rather than by that of the boat's crew."

"Do you mean to insult me?" demand the professor, angrily.

"Most assuredly not, sir. If you had kept your seat in the stern-sheets of the boat, as a passenger should, until the cutter was properly secured, you could not possibly have fallen overboard when the boat-hook broke," answered Paul, gently and firmly.

"I do not ask your judgment upon my actions, Mr. Kendall," growled the professor.

"Excuse me, sir; but I alluded to your movement only in defence of the boat's crew. If the bowmen had actually intended to throw you into the water, they could not have done it if you had kept your seat."

"It is not proper for you to criticise my action."

Paul bowed, and made no reply.

"I protest against your action in punishing McDougal. He apologized to my satisfaction; and, as this is an affair personal with me, I am surprised at your taking any step without consulting me."

"It is a case which affects the discipline of the vessel; and, as such, it was proper that I should dispose of it."

"It was a personal matter, I say," repeated the professor, growing more wrathy when he found his mighty will opposed.

"I have such information, sir, as leads me to believe that the act of this morning was intentional."

"That's a want of judgment on your part, and I protest against your action. I object to your sending McDougal to the ship, and I demand that your order be rescinded."

"I shall send him to the ship, sir!" replied Paul, decidedly, his cheek coloring.

"Shall you! Do you mean to insult me?"

"No, sir; I repeat that I do not mean to insult you."

"I say that boy ought not to be sent to the ship. Why, such a lack of judgment—"

"Mr. Hamblin, I command this vessel!" exclaimed Paul, with native dignity.

"Do you, indeed?"

"I am responsible for all I do to Mr. Lowington. You will oblige me by not interfering with the discipline of the crew."

"How dare you use such language to me?" snapped the professor, dancing about the deck with rage.

"Mr. Terrill, direct Mr. Martyn to pull to the ship, and execute my order as I gave it."

"This is infamous!" stormed Mr. Hamblin. "Am I to be snubbed by a boy, by one of my own pupils?"

"I have nothing more to say, Mr. Hamblin," continued Paul, bowing and moving away.

"Stop, you puppy!" roared Mr. Hamblin, following him, and speaking loud enough for all the officers to hear his offensive remark.

"Come, come, Mr. Hamblin, you are disgracing yourself," interposed Mr. Stoute.

"The puppy!" gasped Mr. Hamblin. "He insulted me!"

"Don't lower yourself in the eyes of your pupils by such undignified conduct."

"Am I to be insulted by a boy?" replied Mr. Hamblin, breaking away from his associate.

"Mr. Terrill, send Mr. Cleats and Mr. Gage aft," said Captain Kendall, hardly able to speak, so violent were his emotions.

"Mr. Kendall—"

"Captain Kendall, if you please," interposed Paul, as the professor, boiling over with rage, rushed up to him.

"Mister Kendall, I will—"

"One word, Mr. Hamblin, before you proceed any farther," continued Paul, struggling to be calm.

"Here, sir," reported the adult carpenter and boatswain.

"Stand by; I may want you," replied Captain Kendall. "Mr. Hamblin," he proceeded, turning to the furious professor, "if you venture to call me a puppy again, or to use any other offensive epithet, I will order the carpenter and boatswain to arrest you. I will send you in irons on board the ship. I beg to remind you again that I am the captain of this vessel."

Mr. Hamblin glanced at him, and then at the stalwart forward officers, who, he knew, would obey the captain if the Josephine went down with them in the act. If he did not feel that he had done wrong, he felt that he could do nothing more. Professor Stoute again interposed his good offices, and Mr. Hamblin defeated—by himself rather than the captain—bolted from the group, and rushed down into the cabin.

The entire ship's company had crowded aft to witness this exciting scene.

"Three cheers for Captain Kendall!" shouted a daring fellow. "One!"

They were given, in spite of Paul's cry for "silence," and then the crew scattered. The young commander looked very pale, and went below attended by Terrill, who had noticed his ghastly expression. He retired to his state-room, and but for his friend's efforts would have fainted away, so terribly had he suffered during the painful scene.



CHAPTER XI.

ON THE WAY TO GHENT.

"You have made a very great mistake, Mr. Hamblin," said Professor Stoute, when they reached their state-room.

"Do you take part with the students, Mr. Stoute?" snapped the angry savant.

The good-natured instructor concluded that it would be useless for him to say anything while his associate continued in such an unhappy frame of mind; and he condemned himself to silence for the present. It was plain enough to him that the crew of the Josephine were in a state of mutiny, so far as Mr. Hamblin was concerned, and, that the academic discipline of the vessel was at an end. If he understood the humor of the boys, they would refuse to obey the professor of Greek. There must be a settlement of this serious difficulty before anything more could be done.

Mr. Hamblin was silent also for a time. It would have been curious to know what he thought of himself at that particular moment, though doubtless he fully justified his conduct and regarded himself as an injured man. A gentleman so profoundly skilled in Greek as he was, with an invitation in his pocket to visit the king's chief minister, ought not to be expected to submit to the snubbing of a mere boy. The two professors sat in the state-room till the silence became painful, and till the anger of Mr. Hamblin had in a measure subsided.

"I did not expect to see you take part with the boys, Mr. Stoute," said the learned gentleman, in a grieved tone.

"If I take any part at all, I hope it will be on the right side," replied Mr. Stoute.

"Which means, I suppose, that I am on the wrong side," replied Mr. Hamblin, with a heavy sigh.

"It means exactly that," added the other, candidly.

"You think, then, that the boys have done precisely right—do you?"

"Without saying that, I am compelled to believe you were in the wrong."

"That boy threatened to arrest me," continued Mr. Hamblin, with something like a shudder; "and all the crew gave three cheers for Captain Kendall!"

"I could hardly resist the temptation to join with them in giving the cheers," replied Mr. Stoute, consolingly. "The conduct of Captain Kendall filled me with admiration."

"Mr. Stoute, do you consider that a proper remark to make to me?"

"You will not understand anything but the plainest speech, and I intend to be perfectly candid with you. You interfered with the discipline of the vessel, and because the captain respectfully declined to recall the boat, you threw yourself into a passion, and behaved in a most ungentlemanly and undignified manner. Positively, sir, I am ashamed of you! You called the captain a puppy, sir!"

"He's only a boy," answered Mr. Hamblin, in whom this plain talk seemed to create a doubt in regard to his conduct.

"Any boy has the right to be treated like a gentleman when he behaves like one, even if his opinion does not agree with our own; and especially is this true of the captain."

"He was utterly lacking in judgment. The conduct of McDougal was a personal matter, and Mr. Kendall should have consulted me."

"Allowing that the captain was wrong,—though I do not think that he was wrong,—it does not improve the aspect of your conduct."

"You think Mr. Lowington will not sustain me—do you?"

"Certainly not."

"I could hardly expect it, since he has a much higher regard for that boy than for me," sighed Mr. Hamblin.

"It is eight o'clock, and time for the recitations to commence," said Mr. Stoute, consulting his watch. "You must decide at once what you intend to do."

"What shall I do?" asked Mr. Hamblin, who had become fully conscious that he had involved himself in another "unpleasantness," and that the powers that be, unmindful of his claims, would probably decide against him.

"Shall we hear the recitations? Are you willing to go into the steerage, and proceed with your classes?"

"I am."

Mr. Stoute had his doubts whether it would be prudent for him to do so; but he was satisfied that Captain Kendall could control the crew, even if they attempted a demonstration against the unpopular instructor.

"If I had made so great a blunder as you have, Mr. Hamblin," added Professor Stoute, "I should go to the captain, and apologize to him."

"Apologize to him!" exclaimed the savant.

"Yes, sir."

"To that boy, who insulted me, who threatened to arrest me, and send me in irons to the ship, who had the impudence to tell me that he was the captain of this vessel! No, sir!"

"Very well, sir; suit yourself; I am going to the steerage to attend to my classes."

Without waiting for his associate's final decision as to what he intended to do, Mr. Stoute left the state-room. By this time Paul had recovered from the faintness which had oppressed him, and had ordered the first lieutenant to "pipe to recitations."

"Are we to go on with the studies as usual, Captain Kendall?" asked Mr. Stoute, who could not help taking the hand of the young commander and warmly pressing it, though without any allusion in words to Professor Hamblin.

"Certainly, sir; the students will not be allowed to neglect any regular duty," replied Paul.

"After the cheers which were given on deck, there is danger of a disturbance."

"No, sir; I think not. If any officer or seaman makes a disturbance, he shall be put under arrest instantly."

"But suppose they all do it in concert."

"They will not, sir;" but Paul spoke in hope rather than in faith, and dreaded the demonstration suggested by the professor.

Mr. Stoute went into the steerage. The students were all there, including the crew of the cutter which had conveyed McDougal to the ship. They were more quiet and orderly than usual; but the calm often precedes the storm. Captain Kendall passed into the steerage, and his appearance was the signal for a general clapping of the hands, in which all the officers joined. That he had won the day in his dispute with the obnoxious professor; that he had threatened to arrest Mr. Hamblin, and send him in irons to the ship; that he had actually called the willing carpenter and boatswain to execute the anticipated order,—were more than enough to make the captain a hero with the ship's company. Boys worship pluck, and are not always particular that it should be displayed in a good cause.

"Silence, if you please," said Paul, moved by the applause of the students.

Silence came instantly, for the captain was a "little god" just then, and had more influence over the ship's company at that moment than ever before. It is true they regretted the fate of poor McDougal, but there was not one of them who did not believe that the captain was right in his estimate of the culprit's guilt.

"I wish to ask a favor of you," continued Paul, in a rather embarrassed tone.

A clapping of hands assured him that he could ask no favor that would not be unanimously granted.

"Whatever happens, I wish you to make no disturbance, and no demonstrations of approval or dissent. Will you heed my request?"

"We will!" shouted the students with one voice.

"Thank you," replied Paul, who did not believe in a display of force before it was necessary.

The boys commenced work upon their lessons, and the captain, passing through the steerage, went on deck to avoid the necessity of meeting Mr. Hamblin, whose step he heard in the passage-way leading from the cabin. As Paul disappeared, the obnoxious savant entered the steerage. One of the students forward hissed, but his companions silenced him instantly; and it is probable, if the captain had not spoken to them, Mr. Hamblin would have been greeted with a general demonstration of disapprobation.

The learned gentleman was evidently much embarrassed; but he was very quiet and subdued in his manner. He was less impatient and snappish than usual; said nothing about "stupidity" and "blundering," as was his habit. He seemed to be abstracted, as well he might; but while he displayed less enthusiasm in his teaching, he was infinitely more gentlemanly and kind. As he gave no occasion for any trouble, none came. Though the captain did not appear at any recitation conducted by him, the professor made no comment upon the circumstance.

Paul was troubled, but he had made up his mind what to do. Either Mr. Hamblin must leave the Josephine, or he would respectfully ask to be relieved from the command of her. It was simply impossible to live with such a porcupine on board. It was a mystery to him that Mr. Lowington had procured the services of such an unsuitable instructor; but the fact was, that he had been engaged by the principal's agent on the strength of his classical attainments, rather than his fitness for the place. He had been so unpopular as a tutor and professor that no institution could long enjoy his services, valuable as they were in an intellectual point of view.

At twelve o'clock orders came from Mr. Lowington to dismiss school, and to dress the Josephine for visitors. All hands were called, and in a short time the vessel wore her gayest attire. A line of flags was extended from the end of the jib-boom over the topmast-heads to the end of the main boom. The flag of Belgium, which consists of black, yellow, and red in equal parts, perpendicularly divided, floated at the foremast head. The Young America was similarly decorated, and the Victoria and Albert hoisted the royal standard of the United Kingdom, which is a magnificent affair, consisting of four squares, two, in opposite corners, being red, one blue and one yellow, with a harp and the lions and unicorns worked upon the squares.

At half past twelve, the professors' barge, with the American flag in the stern, and the Belgian in the bow, put off from the ship and pulled to the Quai Vandyck. The eminent individual who was to be received by the squadron was no less a personage than the governor of the Province of Antwerp, an office once filled by the distinguished Charles Rogier, the present minister of foreign affairs.

As the boat containing his excellency put off from the Quay, the yards of both vessels were manned. All the students were dressed in their best uniform, and the display was really quite imposing. The governor went on board of the ship, was duly cheered by the students, and he visited every part of the vessel. After he had partaken of a collation in the main cabin, he left the ship, accompanied by Mr. Lowington, and visited the Josephine. Everything appeared to the best advantage, and his excellency expressed himself as highly delighted with the naval institution.

All the officers and professors were presented to the distinguished guest, who took a great deal of notice of Paul, and hardly any of Mr. Hamblin—a muddling of distinctions which sore puzzled and annoyed the savant. Not even Mr. Lowington could have suspected that the Josephines were in a state of feverish excitement, and had been almost in a state of mutiny, so fair and pleasant was the outside aspect of the ship's company. The governor, having completed his inspection of the vessel, invited all the officers to dine with him, and was then landed with as much ceremony as he had been received.

Mr. Lowington accompanied the governor to the quay, and on his return he went on board of the Josephine to announce his programme for a visit to several of the cities of Belgium. All hands were called, and were informed that the next three days would be devoted to sight-seeing, and that the students would take the train for Ghent at half past two. The ship's company heard the intelligence with a coolness which did not escape the notice of the principal; but he soon received an explanation of this apparent indifference.

"I am very sorry, Mr. Lowington," said Professor Hamblin, stepping up to him, as he descended from the hatch, "to be again compelled to complain to you of the misconduct of Mr. Kendall. This morning he threatened to arrest me and send me in irons on board of the ship—me, sir! He actually sent for the boatswain and carpenter for this purpose."

"Captain Kendall!" exclaimed the principal, annoyed beyond measure at this recital of grievance. "There must have been some strong provocation."

"Could anything justify such a threat, or such a course?"

"We will not speak of this subject here," added the principal, when he saw that the eyes of every student on board were fixed upon them.

"Something should be done immediately," replied Mr. Hamblin, decidedly.

"I have not time to hear the case now. We take the train for Ghent in less than an hour. I will see you in the railway carriage."

Mr. Lowington moved towards the gangway, where the barge was waiting for him; but Paul, his cheeks all aglow, stepped up to him, and touched his cap.

"Mr. Lowington," said he, "I wish to make a complaint against Mr. Hamblin. He interferes with the discipline of the vessel, is very insulting to me; and I must ask that he be removed from the Josephine, or that I may be permitted to resign."

"I am very sorry you are having any trouble here; but I cannot stay now to hear about it. I will see you on the train."

"Excuse me, one moment, Mr. Lowington," added the savant of the Josephine, as the principal was going over the side. "I wish to inquire if we make any stay in Brussels?"

"We shall probably remain there one day."

"I have an invitation to visit Monsieur Rogier, the chief minister of the King of Belgium, and should like to accept it," added Mr. Hamblin, who thought it would be well for the principal to know this fact before he thought much of the difficulty between himself and the captain.

"You will have ample time," answered Mr. Lowington, as he stepped over the side into the boat.

At two o'clock all hands embarked in a ferry-boat, which conveyed them to the Tete de Flandre, opposite Antwerp, where the Ghent railway station is located. By the good offices of the governor of Antwerp, a special train had been procured for their accommodation, and the carriages were to be at the disposal of the principal for the entire round of the Belgian cities. By this arrangement, the tourists were enabled to make the tour in the brief space allotted to it. They were to spend a day in the capital, but only one or two hours in each of the other places.

In Belgium about two thirds of all the railways are owned or leased by the government, which runs the roads, and even those which are in the hands of corporations will eventually revert to the state. They are exceedingly well managed, and very few accidents occur upon them; but they run at a low rate of speed, compared with the English railways. The fares are about three cents a mile, which is below the average in Europe.

Mr. Lowington selected a compartment in one of the carriages, and arranged his party so as to transact the disagreeable business on hand during the trip. Dr. Winstock and Paul sat at one end of the section, and Mr. Stoute and Terrill at the other, while Mr. Lowington and Professor Hamblin occupied the middle seats. The two students were allowed to occupy the places at the windows, so that they could see the country which they passed through; for the principal deemed this as important for them as their lessons; in fact, it was a study of geography. The train moved off, bearing the company through a low country, not very attractive in itself, though the little farms, gardens, villages and towns were full of interest to young men like Paul.

"Now, Mr. Hamblin, I am ready to hear your complaints," said Mr. Lowington, after the train had passed out of the station. "Captain Kendall, you may give your attention to it, though you can look out of the window at the same time."

"Am I to be confronted with that boy?" demanded the professor, indignantly.

"That boy!" replied Mr. Lowington. "I am to hear what you and Captain Kendall have to say. Go on, if you please, sir."

"You will remember that one of the students, McDougal, was sent on board of the ship, this morning," Mr. Hamblin began, though he was utterly disgusted because he was obliged to make his complaint in the presence of Paul.

"I remember it."

"The offence which that boy committed was against me personally. As he explained the case to me, and made a very humble apology, I was willing to forgive him. I intimated to the officer of the deck that he need not report the matter to the captain; but it was reported to the captain, and when I went on deck, after breakfast, I found the students had been assembled. Mr. Kendall addressed them, with which I had no fault to find. But you can judge of my astonishment when he called up McDougal, and ordered a boat to convey him on board of the ship, thus subjecting him to the severest punishment known to the students of the Josephine.

"I deemed it my duty to interfere, which I did in the most civil manner. I respectfully protested against the action of the captain. I say I deemed it my duty to interfere."

Mr. Hamblin paused, and looked at the principal. He wished him to say that he also deemed it his duty to interfere; but Mr. Lowington did not say that, or anything else, and waited till the professor was ready to proceed.

"I remonstrated with Mr, Kendall, and he saw fit to disregard my protest. I demanded that his order should be rescinded; but he was haughty and impudent in his manner. He told me that the boy should be sent to the ship. He appeared to be utterly wanting in judgment, though, up to this time, I had remonstrated only in the mildest terms. He informed me, in the most offensive manner, that he was the captain of the vessel."

At this point Mr. Lowington bit his lips, to repress a smile which was involuntarily manifesting itself on his face.

"Finally, sir, he sent for the boatswain and carpenter, and threatened to have me conveyed to the ship in irons. It was not enough to say he would send me to the ship, but he would send me in irons! Did ever a boy speak to a man like that before? In college, academy, and school, I have always been master; but here I find myself subject to the will of a stripling of sixteen or seventeen!"

Mr. Hamblin finished his narrative, set his teeth tight together, and threw himself back in his seat to await the decision of the principal.

"Captain Kendall, I will hear your version of this affair," said Mr. Lowington, mildly.

The professor made a movement as if to spring to his feet. The proceedings seemed to be very irregular. He wanted the decision made upon his statement; and it appeared like an insult to him to ask a student for his version of the affair after the instructor had spoken.

"When I was informed that McDougal had directed the hose-pipe at Mr. Hamblin," said Paul, "I decided to make an example of him; for I had a hint that the students intended to annoy the senior professor, and this was the third time something had happened to him. I was satisfied that the act was done on purpose, though I could not prove it."

"It was not done on purpose," interposed Mr. Hamblin, wrathfully. "McDougal, on his knees—"

"You will be kind enough not to interrupt Captain Kendall," said Mr. Lowington, mildly, but firmly.

"I decided to send him on board of the ship, and directed the second lieutenant to report the circumstances to you. Before the boat had shoved off, Mr. Hamblin called me aside, and objected to my action. He said the affair was personal with him, and he was surprised that I had interfered with it. I replied that the matter affected the discipline of the crew, and that I should send McDougal on board of the ship. He was angry then, spoke of my lack of judgment, and said the boy should not be sent to the ship. I told him then, as decidedly as I knew how, that I commanded the vessel."

"Yes, sir; that he commanded the vessel!" said Mr. Hamblin, with much excitement.

"Go on, Captain Kendall," added Mr. Lowington.

"He used some strong language then, and I told him I had nothing more to say. As I was walking away, he told me to stop, and called me a puppy. He repeated the expression, and then I sent for Mr. Cleats and Mr. Gage. They came, and I informed Mr. Hamblin that if he applied another offensive epithet to me, I would send him on board the ship in irons."

"Yes, sir! send me to the ship in irons! Could you have conceived of such an indignity?" exclaimed the professor. "Am I a common sailor? Am I a servant? Am I a student? or am I the senior professor of the consort?"

"Did you speak to Captain Kendall of his lack of judgment, Mr. Hamblin?" asked the principal.

"I did, most assuredly; and I am free to say that a child would have exhibited more judgment than he did," replied the professor, warmly.

"Did you say that McDougal should not be sent on board of the ship?"

"I did; it was an outrage upon the boy after he had begged my pardon with his knees on the wet deck; and it was an outrage upon me, who had forgiven his offence."

"Did you call Captain Kendall a puppy on the quarter-deck of the Josephine?"

"I don't know whether it was on the quarter-deck or the half-deck."

"Oblige me by answering my question."

"Perhaps I did," replied Mr. Hamblin, looking upon the floor of the carriage; for this, he was conscious, was his weak point.

"I must ask you either to affirm or deny that portion of Captain Kendall's complaint."

"If I did, it was because I had been snubbed and insulted by a pupil."

"You do not answer me, sir."

"I did; and I am willing to acknowledge it was highly improper; but I was—"

"It is not necessary to explain it," interposed Mr, Lowington. "I desire now only to obtain the facts. You applied this epithet twice to Captain Kendall—did you?"

"Possibly I did. I was much excited."

"Affirm or deny it, if you please."

"I will grant that I did, though I do not now distinctly remember. It was wrong for me to use such language under any circumstances, but I have not been in the habit of being snubbed by my pupils."

"Is there any other material fact you wish to add, Mr. Hamblin?" asked the principal.

"Nothing more is needed, I think," replied the professor, who really believed that he had overwhelmed Paul, in spite of the conscious disadvantage he labored under in having used intemperate language himself. "It is plain enough that Mr. Kendall and I cannot get along together in the same vessel."

"That is plain enough," added Mr. Lowington. "I had requested Professor Stoute and Mr. Terrill to take seats in this carriage in order to afford any information we might need; but I find the facts in the case are not disputed. On the material points, there is no difference of statement between Mr. Hamblin and Captain Kendall. I shall reserve my decision till we return to the vessels."

"It will be impossible for me to do my duty to the students on board of the Josephine while Mr. Kendall is in command of her," said the professor, who wanted the decision at once, so confident was he that the principal could not sustain the young commander this time.

"I shall arrange it so that you and Captain Kendall will no longer sail in the same vessels."

That was very indefinite, but something was to be done; and this was all the comfort the professor received. Paul was much agitated, and Dr. Winstock talked to him for half an hour before he could fix his attention upon the novelties of the country hurried in panorama before him.



CHAPTER XII.

"IN BELGIUM'S CAPITAL."

"Gand!" shouted the guard, as he walked along the step before the doors of the compartments, just as the train entered the station.

"I suppose that means Ghent," said Paul.

"Yes; Gand is the French name of the place," replied Dr. Winstock. "There are many cities in Europe which you would not recognize by their foreign appellations."

As the train stopped the whistle of the Young America's boatswain called the students together, and Mr. Lowington told them they could stay only two hours in the place.

"Ghent is situated at the junction of the River Lys with the Scheldt," said Professor Mapps, who, to the astonishment of the boys, seemed to be plumed for a lecture. "The numerous branches of these rivers, either natural or artificial, form canals which extend in all directions through the city. The town may be said to be composed of twenty-six islands, which are connected together by no less than eighty bridges. The grand canal extends from the lower Scheldt to the town, by means of which ships drawing eighteen feet can come up to the basin. All these canals are navigable for boats or vessels. It is surrounded by a wall seven or eight miles in extent, for its defence. On the grand canal, half way between the city and the West Scheldt, there are sluices, by which the whole country could be laid under water in case of invasion by an enemy.

"Ghent has been called the Manchester of Belgium, on account of its being so largely engaged in cotton manufactures. Its factories are operated by steam power. The population in 1863 was one hundred and twenty-two thousand. The cultivation of flowers is largely carried on here, there being about four hundred hot-houses in the immediate vicinity of the city.

"Ghent is a very old city, and occupies a prominent place in history. In the days of Charles the Bold it was the capital of Flanders. Charles V., Emperor of Germany, was born here. It was formerly a city of vast importance, and at one time its wealth and power had increased to such an extent, that it was regarded as the rival of Paris. 'Je mettrais Paris dans mon Gand,' Charles V. used to say, as he proudly contemplated this great city. What does it mean?"

"I could put Paris into my glove," replied one of the French scholars near the professor. "But gant is the French word for glove."

"Near enough for a pun, and much nearer than modern punsters often get it," continued Mr. Mapps. "Ghent, in former days, had the reputation of being a turbulent city, and its people were bold and warlike. They have always been forward in asserting and defending their liberties; and you will find that the burghers of Ghent figure largely in Mr. Motley's Histories. I will not detain you longer now, but, as we pass through the city, I shall have something more to say about its historic character."

A sufficient number of vehicles had been gathered during the professor's lecture to enable the students to make the most of their limited time in Ghent. They went first to the Beffroi, or Belfry-tower. It is a kind of watch-tower, two hundred and eighty feet high, built in the twelfth century. The structure is square, and is surmounted by a gilt dragon. It contains a chime of bells, and a huge bell weighing five tons. The records of the city were formerly kept in the lower part of the building, which is now degraded into a prison. The entrance to the tower is through a shop, and the view from the top is very fine.

The Cathedral of St. Bavon, the Church of St. Michael, and the Hotel de Ville, or Town Hall, were pointed out, and the carriages stopped in the Marche au Vendredi, a large square, or market-place, which takes its name from the day on which the sale is held. The phrase means Friday Market. Mr. Mapps explained the use of the square, and pointed out the ancient buildings with Flemish gables, which look like a flight of stairs on each slope, which surrounds it.

"This was the grand meeting-place of the citizens of Ghent," he continued; "the counts of Flanders were inaugurated here with great ceremony and splendor. Here the trades-unions, or societies of weavers, used to meet. Here the standard of rebellion was planted, and the people rallied around it to overthrow their oppressors. Here Jacques van Artevelde, the Brewer of Ghent, encountered a hostile association, and fought one of the most furious combats known in history. He was called the Brewer of Ghent, because, though of noble family, he joined the society of brewers to flatter the vanity of the lower classes. His partisans were chiefly weavers, and his opponents the fullers. In the midst of the strife the host—the consecrated bread and wine of the Catholic mass—was brought into the square, in order to separate the furious artisans; but it was disregarded, and the bodies of fifteen hundred citizens were left on this spot.

"Van Artevelde, whose statue you see before you," added the professor, pointing to the object, "was a person of great influence. He was the ally of Edward III. of England, and had raised himself to the position of Ruwaert, or Protector of Flanders, by banishing its hereditary counts. By his advice, the King of England had added the fleur de lis, or lilies of France, to the British arms, claiming to be King of France. He courted the aid of the Flemish people, who were very powerful,—for it was said that Ghent alone could furnish eighty thousand fighting men,—in order to establish his claim to rule France.

"Edward obtained the assistance of the Flemings; but he did not conquer France, though he gained some splendid victories, in which the famous Black Prince figured. Van Artevelde began to dread the vengeance of the hereditary counts of Flanders, whose power he had usurped, and in 1344 he invited Edward to meet him at Sluis. Here the Brewer proposed to make Edward's son—the Black Prince—sovereign of Flanders, in order to secure the protection of England. He relied upon his influence with the citizens to induce them to submit to this arrangement; but the stout burghers rejected the proposal with contempt and indignation.

"During Van Arteveldt's absence, a popular insurrection was fomented against him; and, on his return, as he rode through the streets, he was made conscious of the storm that was brewing against the Brewer. He went to his house, and barricaded the doors; but the street was soon filled by the mob. He addressed them from a window; but they would not hear him, and he attempted to escape by a back door into an adjoining church. Failing to accomplish this purpose, the infuriated people broke in upon him, and he was killed.