“But to acquire a profession, is not instruction and practice necessary?”

“Certainly; it is impossible to become a proficient in any art or science by mere study alone; but before sowing a field, what is done?”

“It is ploughed and manured.”

“And should there be only a few seeds?”

“We can sow what we have, and reserve the harvest till next season.  By economising each crop in this way, we shall soon have seeds enough to cover any extent of land.”

“May I request you, Master Ernest, to draw a conclusion from that as regards sowing the seeds of a future career?”

“I would infer, from your suggestion, that we might adapt ourselves for such and such a profession by preparing our minds to receive instruction in it, and we might also avail ourselves in the meantime of such sources of information regarding it as are at present open to us.  The physician in prospective, for example, might make himself familiar with the medical properties of such plants as are within his reach; he might likewise examine the bones of an ape, and thus, by analogy, become acquainted with the framework of the human body.  The would-be lawyer might, in the same way, avail himself of the library to obtain an insight into those social mysteries that bind men in communities and necessitate human laws for the preservation of peace and order.  Thus, by directing our thoughts into one line of study, we may form a basis upon which the superstructure may be easily erected, and the necessary academical degrees or sanction of the university obtained.”

“And, when you see this, why not adopt so commendable a course?”

“Because we may probably be destined to remain here, where, according to Jack, the learned professions, at least, are not likely to be much in demand.”

“The study of a particular science or art has charms in itself, which amply compensate the student for his labor.  But, even admitting you do not return to the Old World, you forget that it is your intention to colonise this territory.”

“It seems, however, that God has willed it otherwise.”

“What God does not will in one way, he may bring about in another.  What reason have you for supposing that the Nelson may not return with colonists?”

“It will be from the other world then,” said Willis.

“Yes, from the other world,” replied Jack, “but not in the sense you imply.”

“Besides, should the Nelson not reappear, that is no reason why another accident may not drive another ship upon the coast that will be more fortunate; what has happened to-day may surely happen again to-morrow.  And in the event of colonists arriving, will there not be sick to cure, boundaries to determine, differences of opinion to decide, and opposing claims to adjudge.”

“Certainly, Mr. Wolston.”

“Well, admitting these necessities, what profession will each of you select?  Let us begin with you, Master Fritz.”