MR. WILTON.  “I believe I can inform you somewhat on that head.  A scriptural cubit measures twenty-one inches, and it has been calculated according to the dimensions given in the 6th chapter of Genesis, that the ark must have been of the enormous burden of 19,530 tons!”

CHARLES.  “Enormous! why our first-rate men-of-war are scarcely 3000 tons, and yet how large they look.  How long was it in building?”

MRS. WILTON.  “Many authors agree in stating it to have been one hundred and twenty years in building.”

MR. STANLEY.  “There is now no alternative—­our discussion must come to an end.  The last voyage has been highly interesting, although, perhaps, not in the most delightful portion of the globe; but I cannot help expressing a sincere wish, that your real voyage to the West Indies may afford you as much enjoyment and edification; and its termination be as happy and well-ordered, as this imaginary voyage, which has not only proved us all tolerable sailors and respectable navigators, but also testified that the good ship ‘Research’ has truly merited her name, and earned many laurels for herself and owners.”

Mr. Stanley then presented George with a beautiful telescope, as a reward for his perseverance in the acquirement of geographical knowledge.  He charged him to make a profitable use of it, for the benefit of the captain on their voyage to Jamaica; and, added he, as he placed the valuable gift in the hands of the delighted boy:  “Keep a sharp look-out, George; and mind that you are the first to shout a sail! a sail!  Then you will see how the faces of the weather-beaten sailors will brighten as they run to have a look at her.  Then will the captain call for his speaking trumpet, and some such questions as these will be put to the stranger. Where are you bound?  Where do you come from?  Are you all hearty on board?  The boatswain will then hang out the black board, with the latitude and longitude marked on it; the stranger will do the same.  If they agree, all well and good, they each sail on their separate courses, wishing for fair winds and a prosperous voyage; such as I sincerely hope may fall to the share of the members of our little Society.”

We must now leave our young friends, as we cannot accompany them across the Atlantic for want of a vessel.  The “Research” having behaved so well in their late expeditions, she is still to be honored with their company; and being a merchant ship, she cannot accommodate many passengers.

Should my readers be anxious to hear of the safe arrival of their young friends in the “Land of Springs,” I must beg to refer them to Lloyd’s for particulars of “Research,” A. 1. 400 tons burden, Commander Frederic Hamilton.

THE END.