"Ever so many stars and anchors on my shoulder-straps," Jim proceeded, "and very likely a cocked hat. And a sword, of course, and white kid gloves."
"White kid gloves will be so nice," said Elspeth, "when you clean the lamp and bail out the dory."
"I sha'n't be cleaning the lamp," Jim said. "I shall be standing on the bridge of my flagship, bossing the Fleet through a—periscope." Then he laughed as he looked at Garth.
"Oh, Pem!" he said, shaking his head, "you precious old periwinkle! Aren't you used to your foolish Fogger yet? I'll be everlastingly thankful if they make me an ensign, or let me in at all."
He stood up and swept Garth into his arms.
"I never know whether you really are joking," Garth said. "And I thought they might make you an Admiral. You know enough."
Jim smiled a little; then looked straight into his son's eyes.
"Wish me luck, old man," he whispered.
Garth hugged him with all his strength.
"Oh, I do, Fogger," he said, "lots and lots! And oh, come back soon!"
Jim put him down gently and, catching up his
