28 THE BOY CAPTAIN.

tleman replied. “We attend to the business of the
Messrs. Pierce, but have no instructions regarding the
brig Progressive Age. Under the circumstances I should
hesitate before fitting her for sea until after communicat-
ing with the owners.”

«That means she would have to lay here a very long
while?”

“Exactly ; and it would entail much loss. At the same
time I should n’t feel warranted in doing anything on my
own responsibility.”

«Don’t you suppose the owners would like to have her
home?” Ben asked.

« There’s no question about it, and very likely would
be willing to pay a good round sum. The matter had
better be referred to the American consul.”

«Then it isn’t possible for you to give me any authority
in the matter?’’ Ben asked, in a tone of grievous disap-
pointment.

“No; and yet I am willing to assume this much respon-
sibility: if your father says you are capable of managing
such a craft, I’ll authorise you to take possession of her
wherever she may be — providing she is in such a condi-
tion as youdescribe. Then, upon arriving at Hong Kong,
it is possible the matter can be arranged to your satisfac-
tion; but I am afraid not.”

«And I have your authority to bring her here?”

“Yes, after I have talked with Captain Thompson.”

Ben understood that it would be useless for him to make
any further conversation with the agent, and he departed