Newton Forster by Frederick Marryat

"Thus the rich vessel moves in trim array, Like some fair virgin on her bridal day: Thus like a swan, she cleaves the watery plain, The pride and wonder of the AEgean main. "The natives, while the ship departs the land, Ashore, with admiration gazing stand; Majestically slow before the breeze, In silent pomp, she marches on the seas. " FALCONER.

Much to the satisfaction of Captain Drawlock, the chronometers and the ladies were safe on board, and the _Bombay Castle_ proceeded to the Downs, where she was joined by the purser, charged with despatches of the august directors. Once upon a time a director was a very great man, and the India board a very great board. There must have been a very great many plums in the pudding, for in this world people do not take trouble for nothing; and until latter years, how eagerly, how perseveringly was this situation applied for -- what supplicating advertisements -- what fawning and wheedling promises of attention to the interests of the proprietors -- "your voices, good people!"