"It is just as necessary," pursued the ancient connoisseur, when Peter wasreseated, "it is just as necessary for a gentleman to have a delicatepalate for the tints of the vine as it is for him to have a delicate eyefor the tints of the palette. Nature bestowed a taste both in art andwine on man, which he should strive to improve at every opportunity. Itis a gift from God. Perhaps you would like another glass. No? Thenaccommodate me."

He drained this one, with Peter standing, worked his witheblack lips backand forth to experience its full taste, then swallowed, and smacked.

"Now, Peter," he said, "the reason I asked you to come to see me is thatI need a man about this house. That will be one phase of your work. Themore important part is that you shall serve as a sort of secretary. Ihave here a manuscript." He patted the pile of papers. "My handwritingis rather difficult. I want you to copy this matter out and get it readyfor the printer."

Peter became more and more astonished.

"Are you offering me a permanent place, Captain Renfrew?" he asked.

The very aged man nodded.

"I need a man with a certain liberality of culture. I will no doubt haveyou run through books and periodicals and make note of any pointsgermane to my thesis."

Peter looked at the pile of script on the table.

"That is somewhat flattering, Captain; but the fact is, I came by your placeat this hour because I am just in the act of leaving here on thesteamboat to-night."

The Captain glanced at Peter with concern on his face. "Leaving Hooker'sBend?"