162 THE SHIPWRECK,

not enlarge upon his conduct to me; although I venture
to hope that the life he has preserved to me will, in spite
of my demerits, be a powerful means of recommendation to
your favour.” : ’

This short address was followed by tokens of approba-
tion. Charles was seconded by Lieutenant Saint Ague,
who was the first to extend the hand of fellowship to the
young officer. All present followed his example with the
ready frankness of French sailors; and congratulations on
his recent promotion were now showered on him most
abundantly.

“No, my brave companions,” exclaimed the count,
while shaking hands affectionately with the officers, “it
shall never be said by our enemies that valour and merit,
no matter in what rank they be found, are virtues of no
account in the French navy.”

Charles knew well the readiest avenues to their hearts.
Nor was his warm appeal to the generosity of their feelings
unavailing; for Philip never again met with the least
mark of coolness on the part of any officer belonging to the
Achilles. His exactitude in fulfilling his duties, and his
irreproachable deportment, soon effaced from the memory
of all the recollection of his past insubordination and inso~