Among the unimportant junior officers, not wanted on board under these circumstances, and favored accordingly by obtaining leave to wait for orders on shore, were two yo ung men, aged respectively twenty-two and twenty-three years, and known by the names of Cosway and Stone. The scene which now introduces them opens at a famous seaport on the south coast of England, and discloses the two young gentlemen at dinner in a private room at their inn.
"I think that last bottle of champagne was corked," Cosway remarked. "Let's try another. You're nearest the bell, Stone.
Ring."
Stone rang, under protest. He was the elder of the two by a year, and he set an example of discretion.