As soon as Ready had hung up the curtains, he looked under the
bedsteads for a large bundle, and said, as he opened it, "I shall now
decorate Madam Seagrave's sleeping-place. It ought to be handsomer than
the others." The bundle was composed of the ship's ensign, which was
red, and a large, square, yellow flag with the name of the ship Pacific
in large black letters upon it. These two flags Ready festooned and
tied up round the bed-place, so as to give it a very gay appearance,
and also to hide the rough walls of the cottage.
"Indeed, Ready, I am much obliged to you," said Mrs. Seagrave, when he
had finished; "it is really quite grand for this place."
"It's the best use we can put them to now, madam," said Ready.
"I am afraid so," replied Mr. Seagrave, thoughtfully.
"Ready," said William, after the candles were lighted, "you once
half-promised me that you would tell me your history; I wish you would
tell us some of it now, as it will pass away the evening."
"Well, William, I did say so, and I shall keep my word. When you have
heard my story, you will say that I have been very foolish in my time;
and so I have; but if it proves a warning to you, it will, at all
events, be of some use.
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