I frankly confess that I am more of a landsman than a sailor, so when I see a large cutter making for us and apparently desirous of running us down I am rather alarmed. However, there is really no cause for fear, for the coming vessel is to be our home for the next four hours; it is making for us because it wishes to take us aboard. We clamber up the sides of our new boat, and start for the oyster-beds.

And now that we are really on the ocean I begin to realise the pleasures of the situation. Our boat, although rough and unornamental, is scrupulously clean. We are seated on comfortable deck-chairs and watching lazily the preparations for luncheon. A cloth as white as snow is spread before us, and two of the crew are busily cutting slices of brown

I ask as we pass a perfect fleet of vessels like our own.

says our host;

As a captain of militia (the solitary distinction of which I am really proud) I understand my host's meaning and explain the matter to my companions.

And now we have our first taste of the treasures of the vasty deep. One of the dredges has been drawn up and its shears-like nets opened. Out tumble a number of oysters with two or three five-fingers and a few cockles. The brown bread and butter, the sauterne, and last but not least, a plate of are handed round.

I exclaim, as I devour a bivalve with gusto,

I notice that my friend Trevelyan is like Brer Rabbit, But the others are eating with the same satisfaction that I am displaying myself. I am rather horrified when

I exclaim.

replies our host with a smile.

I ask, struck with the enormous difference between the wholesale price and the retail price.

And now I understand why Brer Rabbit Trevelyan has been Fresh oysters have been brought on board and opened. If the first were delicious, these are supremely delightful. They have a magnificent flavour.

says our host,

We loyally devour a couple of dozen apiece. Then we pass over another part of the beds, and fresh oysters are produced. They are larger than the others, but of the same splendid flavour.

explains

As I dispose of two or three splendid specimens, I understand more and more clearly why Brer Rabbit Trevelyan had refused to have anything to do with