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Test Bank for Systems Analysis and Design, 8th
Edition: Shelly
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Chapter 1 – Introduction to Systems Analysis and Design
MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. In launching a new information system, the greatest risk occurs when a company ____.
a. begins by outlining its business models and identifying possible IT solutions
b. tries to decide how the system will be implemented before determining what the system is
supposed to do
c. considers implementation options after having a clear set of objectives
d. all of the above
ANS: B PTS: 1 REF: 5
2. ____ software controls the flow of data, provides data security, and manages network operations.
a. Enterprise c. Application
b. System d. Legacy
3. Examples of company-wide applications, called ____, include order processing systems, payroll
systems, and company communications networks.
a. enterprise applications c. operating applications
b. network operating systems (NOS) d. legacy systems
ANS: A PTS: 1 REF: 6
4. Over 40 years ago, a concept called Moore's Law accurately predicted that computer processing power
would double about every ____.
a. 2 months c. 24 months
b. 12 months d. 48 months
ANS: C PTS: 1 REF: 6
5. When planning an information system, a company must consider how a new system will interface with
older systems, which are called ____.
a. enterprise applications c. operating applications
b. network operating systems (NOS) d. legacy systems
ANS: D PTS: 1 REF: 7
6. When companies attempt to simplify operations or reduce costs, a popular strategy is to have managers
and systems analysts perform ____.
a. electronic data interchange (EDI) c. business process reengineering (BPR)
b. joint application development (JAD) d. rapid application development (RAD)

7. Systems analysts use a process called ____ to represent a company’s operations and information
needs.
a. JAD c. RAD
b. Scrum d. business process modeling
8. A business ____ is an overview that describes a company’s overall functions, processes, organization,
products, services, customers, suppliers, competitors, constraints, and future direction.
a. matrix c. index
b. profile d. glossary
9. A business ____ is a graphical representation of one or more business processes that a company
performs, such as accepting airline reservations, selling a ticket, or crediting a customer account.
a. iteration c. method
b. model d. process
10. ____ enabled computer-to-computer transfer of data between companies, usually over private
telecommunications networks.
a. EDI c. TCH
b. ACH d. O-O
11. Transaction processing (TP) systems ____.
a. provide job-related information to users at all levels of a company
b. simulate human reasoning by combining a knowledge base and inference rules that
determine how the knowledge is applied
c. process data generated by day-to-day business operations
d. include e-mail, voice mail, fax, video conferencing, word processing, automated
calendars, database management, spreadsheets, and high-speed Internet access
12. Business support systems ____.
a. provide job-related information support to users at all levels of a company
13. Knowledge management systems are called expert systems because they ____.

14. User productivity systems ____.
15. In a typical company organizational model, top managers ____.
a. develop long-range plans, called strategic plans, which define the company’s overall
mission and goals
b. provide direction, necessary resources, and performance feedback to supervisors and team
leaders
c. oversee operation employees and carry out day-to-day functions, coordinating operational
tasks and people
d. include users who rely on TP systems to enter and receive the data they need to perform
their jobs
16. In a typical company organizational model, middle managers ____.
a. develop long-range plans, called strategic plans, which define the company’s overall
mission and goals
b. provide direction, necessary resources, and performance feedback to supervisors and team
leaders
c. oversee operation employees and carry out day-to-day functions, coordinating operational
tasks and people
d. include users who rely on TP systems to enter and receive the data they need to perform
their jobs
17. A ____, or requirements model, describes the information that a system must provide.
a. process model c. business model
b. data model d. network model
18. A(n) ____ describes the logic that programmers use to write code modules.
a. process model c. business model
b. object model d. network model
19. ____ is a systems development technique that produces a graphical representation of a concept or
process that systems developers can analyze, test, and modify.
a. Prototyping c. Scrum
b. Rapid application development d. Modeling

20. ____ is a systems development technique that tests system concepts and provides an opportunity to
examine input, output, and user interfaces before final decisions are made.
a. Scrum c. Modeling
b. Prototyping d. Rapid application development
21. ____ methods include the latest trends in software development.
a. Object-oriented analysis c. Structured analysis
b. Agile/Adaptive d. Rapid application development
22. The ____ method of developing systems is well-suited to project management tools and techniques.
a. object-oriented analysis c. structured analysis
b. adaptive d. rapid application development
23. The ____ method of developing systems produces code that is modular and reusable.
24. The ____ method of developing systems stresses team interaction and reflects a set of community-
based values.
25. Structured analysis is a traditional systems development technique that uses a series of phases, called
the ____, to plan, analyze, design, implement, and support an information system.
a. O-O c. MSF
b. SDLC d. RUP
26. Because it focuses on processes that transform data into useful information, structured analysis is
called a(n) ____ technique.
a. iterative c. inferred
b. process-centered d. empowered

27. Traditionally, the SDLC is pictured as a(n) ____, like that shown in the accompanying figure, where
the result of each phase, which is called a deliverable or end product, flows sequentially into the next
phase.
a. interactive model c. waterfall model
b. requirements model d. object model
28. In the model of the SDLC shown in the accompanying figure, the ____ usually begins with a formal
request to the IT department, called a systems request, which describes problems or desired changes in
an information system or a business process.
a. systems design phase c. systems support and security phase
b. systems planning phase d. systems analysis phase

29. In the model of the SDLC shown in the accompanying figure, the purpose of the ____ is to build a
logical model of the new system.
a. systems analysis phase c. systems design phase
b. systems implementation phase d. systems support and security phase
30. In the model of the SDLC shown in the accompanying figure, the purpose of the ____ is to create a
blueprint that will satisfy all documented requirements for the system.
a. systems implementation phase c. systems analysis phase
b. systems planning phase d. systems design phase
31. In the model of the SDLC shown in the accompanying figure, during ____, the new system is
constructed.
a. systems planning c. systems design
b. systems support and security d. systems implementation
32. In the model of the SDLC shown in the accompanying figure, during ____, the IT staff maintains,
enhances, and protects the system.
a. systems support and security c. systems analysis
b. systems implementation d. systems planning
33. Whereas structured analysis treats processes and data as separate components, ____ combines data and
the processes that act on the data into things called objects.
a. the MSF c. RUP
b. the SDLC d. O-O
34. In object-oriented programming, an object is a member of a(n) ____, which is a collection of similar
objects.
a. property c. message
b. class d. instance
35. In object-oriented design, built-in processes called ____ can change an object’s properties.
a. methods c. attributes
b. functions d. features
36. Agile methods typically use a(n) ____model, which represents a series of iterations based on user
feedback.
a. gradual c. spiral
b. extreme d. evaluative

37. When building an information system, all of the following basic guidelines should be considered
except ____.
a. stick to an overall development plan
b. identify major milestones for project review and assessment
c. provide accurate and reliable cost and benefit information
d. ensure that users are not involved in the development process
ANS: D PTS: 1 REF: 25|26
38. Traditionally, IT departments had a(n) ____ group composed of systems analysts and programmers
who handled information system design, development, and implementation.
a. Web support c. systems support
b. application development d. database administration
39. ____ provides vital protection and maintenance services for system software and hardware, including
enterprise computing systems, networks, transaction processing systems, and corporate IT
infrastructure.
a. User support c. Systems support and security
b. Database administration d. Network administration
40. A systems analyst needs ____.
a. solid technical knowledge and good analytical ability
b. strong oral and written communication skills
c. an understanding of business operations and processes
d. all of the above
MULTIPLE RESPONSE
Modified Multiple Choice
1. An example of a vertical system is a(n) ____.
a. inventory application c. payroll application
b. medical practice application d. database for a video chain
ANS: B, D PTS: 1 REF: 7
2. An example of a horizontal system is a(n) ____.
a. inventory application c. payroll application
b. application for a Web-based retailer d. medical practice application
ANS: A, C PTS: 1 REF: 7
3. A business process describes a specific set of ____.
a. transactions c. events
b. tasks d. results
ANS: A, B, C, D PTS: 1 REF: 8

4. Product-oriented companies produce ____.
a. retail services c. computers
b. routers d. microchips
ANS: B, C, D PTS: 1 REF: 9
5. Database administration involves ____.
a. network administration c. database design
b. user access d. backup
ANS: B, C, D PTS: 1 REF: 27
MODIFIED TRUE/FALSE
1. System software consists of programs that support day-to-day business functions and provide users
with the information they require. _________________________
ANS: F, Application
PTS: 1 REF: 6
2. Product-oriented companies primarily offer information or services or sell goods produced by others.
_________________________
ANS: F, Service
PTS: 1 REF: 9
3. Extreme Programming is a popular process with agile developers and refers to a powerful effort to
achieve short-term goals. _________________________
ANS: F, Scrum
PTS: 1 REF: 23
4. Rapid application development focuses on team-based fact-finding. _________________________
ANS: F
Joint application development
Joint application development (JAD)
JAD
JAD (joint application development)
PTS: 1 REF: 24
5. User support provides users with technical information, training, and productivity support.
_________________________
ANS: T PTS: 1 REF: 27
TRUE/FALSE

1. Traditionally, a company either developed its own information systems, called in-house applications,
or purchased systems called software packages from outside vendors.
2. A mission-critical system is one that is unimportant to a company’s operations.
ANS: F PTS: 1 REF: 5
3. In an information system, data is information that has been transformed into output that is valuable to
users.
4. In an information system, information consists of basic facts that are the system’s raw material.
5. The success or failure of an information system usually is unrelated to whether users are satisfied with
the system’s output and operations.
6. Although the business-to-business (B2B) sector is more familiar to retail customers, the volume of
business-to-consumer (B2C) transactions is many times greater.
7. TP systems are inefficient because they process a set of transaction-related commands individually
rather than as a group.
8. In a knowledge management system, a knowledge base consists of logical rules that identify data
patterns and relationships.
9. A knowledge management system uses inference rules, which consist of a large database that allows
users to find information by entering keywords or questions in normal English phrases.
10. Most large companies require systems that combine transaction processing, business support,
knowledge management, and user productivity features.
11. Because they focus on a longer time frame, middle managers need less detailed information than top
managers, but somewhat more than supervisors who oversee day-to-day operations.

12. Many companies find that a trend called empowerment, which gives employees more responsibility
and accountability, improves employee motivation and increases customer satisfaction.
13. CASE tools provide an overall framework for systems development and support a wide variety of
design methodologies, including structured analysis and object-oriented analysis.
14. It is unusual for system developers to mix and match system development methods to gain a better
perspective.
15. In the systems planning phase, a key part of the preliminary investigation is a feasibility study that
reviews anticipated costs and benefits and recommends a course of action based on operational,
technical, economic, and time factors.
16. In the systems analysis phase, the first step is requirements modeling, where business processes are
investigated and what the new system must do is documented.
17. In object-oriented design, objects possess characteristics called properties, which the object inherits
from its class or possesses on its own.
18. A scalable design can expand to meet new business requirements and volumes.
19. In object-oriented design, a message requests specific behavior or information from another object.
20. Microsoft offers a development approach called Microsoft Solutions Framework (MSF), which
documents the experience of its own software development teams.
21. An IT group provides technical support, which includes application development, systems support and
security, user support, database administration, network administration, and Web support.
22. Network administration, which is a function of the IT group, includes hardware and software
maintenance, support, and security.

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23. Companies typically require that systems analysts have a college degree in information systems,
computer science, business, or a closely related field, and some IT experience usually is required.
24. The responsibilities of a systems analyst at a small firm are exactly the same as those at a large
corporation.
25. A corporate culture is the set of beliefs, rules, traditions, values, and attitudes that define a company
and influence its way of doing business.
COMPLETION
1. _________________________ refers to the combination of hardware and software products and
services that companies use to manage, access, communicate, and share information.
ANS:
Information technology (IT)
IT
PTS: 1 REF: 4
2. _________________________ is a step-by-step process for developing high-quality information
systems.
ANS: Systems analysis and design
PTS: 1 REF: 4
3. A(n) _________________________ combines information technology, people, and data to support
business requirements.
ANS: information system
PTS: 1 REF: 4
4. An IT department team includes _________________________ who plan, develop, and maintain
information systems.
ANS: systems analysts
PTS: 1 REF: 4
5. A(n) _________________________ is a set of related components that produces specific results, such
as routing Internet traffic, manufacturing microchips, and controlling complex entities like the
International Space Station.
ANS: system

PTS: 1 REF: 5
6. In the accompanying figure showing the components of an information system,
_________________________ consist(s) of everything in the physical layer of the information
system.
ANS: hardware
PTS: 1 REF: 6
_________________________ refer(s) to the programs that control the hardware and produce the
desired information or results.
ANS: software
PTS: 1 REF: 6
_________________________ is/are the raw material that an information system transforms into
useful information.
ANS: data
PTS: 1 REF: 7

_________________________ describe(s) the tasks and business functions that users, managers, and
IT staff members perform to achieve specific results.
ANS: processes
PTS: 1 REF: 7
10. In the accompanying figure showing the components of an information system, the people, called
_________________________, interact with an information system, both inside and outside the
company.
ANS:
users
end users
PTS: 1 REF: 7
11. The newest category of company is the _________________________ whose primary business
depends on the Internet rather than a traditional business channel.
ANS:
Internet-dependent firm
dot-com company
.com company
PTS: 1 REF: 9
12. Traditional companies sometimes are called _________________________ companies because they
conduct business primarily from physical locations.
ANS: brick-and-mortar
PTS: 1 REF: 9
13. Internet-based commerce is called _________________________ and includes two main sectors: B2C
(business-to-consumer) and B2B (business-to-business).
ANS:
e-commerce
electronic commerce
I-commerce
Internet commerce
PTS: 1 REF: 9
14. _________________________ programs run on a company intranet and enable users to share data,
collaborate on projects, and work in teams.
ANS: Groupware
PTS: 1 REF: 14

15. Computer-aided systems engineering (CASE) is a technique that uses powerful software, called
_________________________, to help systems analysts develop and maintain information systems.
ANS: CASE tools
PTS: 1 REF: 17
16. The end product for the systems analysis phase of the SDLC is the _________________________,
which describes management and user requirements, costs and benefits, and outlines alternative
development strategies.
ANS: system requirements document
PTS: 1 REF: 20
17. The systems implementation phase of the SDLC includes an assessment, called a(n)
_________________________, to determine whether the system operates properly and if costs and
benefits are within expectation.
ANS: systems evaluation
PTS: 1 REF: 21
18. Because it stresses a team-based culture, the agile community has published a set of principles called
the _________________________.
ANS: Agile Manifesto
PTS: 1 REF: 22
19. Web support specialists, often called _________________________, support a company’s Internet
and intranet operations.
ANS: webmasters
PTS: 1 REF: 28
20. Many hardware and software companies offer _________________________ for IT professionals,
which verifies that an individual demonstrated a certain level of knowledge and skill on a standardized
test.
ANS: certification
PTS: 1 REF: 29
MATCHING
Identify the letter of the choice that best matches the phrase or definition.
a. MIS f. team leaders
b. network model g. operational employees
c. object model h. business support system
d. fuzzy logic i. data model
e. ERP j. prototype

1. In many large companies, these kinds of systems provide cost-effective support for users and managers
throughout the company.
2. The name for new business support systems that produced valuable information, in addition to
performing manual tasks; their primary users were managers.
3. The decision support capability of this can help users make decisions.
4. Many knowledge management systems use this technique, which allows inferences to be drawn from
imprecise relationships.
5. People who oversee operational employees and carry out day-to-day functions.
6. People who rely on TP systems to enter and receive data they need to perform their jobs.
7. Describes the design and protocols of telecommunications links.
8. Describes objects, which combine data and processes.
9. Describes data structures and design.
10. An early working version of an information system.
1. ANS: E PTS: 1 REF: 12
2. ANS: A PTS: 1 REF: 13
3. ANS: H PTS: 1 REF: 13
4. ANS: D PTS: 1 REF: 14
5. ANS: F PTS: 1 REF: 16
6. ANS: G PTS: 1 REF: 16
7. ANS: B PTS: 1 REF: 16
8. ANS: C PTS: 1 REF: 16
9. ANS: I PTS: 1 REF: 16
10. ANS: J PTS: 1 REF: 17
ESSAY
1. Explain what a knowledge worker is, and why this kind of worker is required by successful
companies.
ANS:
Knowledge workers include professional staff members such as systems analysts, programmers,
accountants, researchers, trainers, and human resource specialists. Knowledge workers also use
business support systems, knowledge management systems, and user productivity systems. Knowledge
workers provide support for the organization's basic functions. Just as a military unit requires logistical
support, a successful company needs knowledge workers to carry out its mission.
PTS: 1 REF: 16 TOP: Critical Thinking
2. What are the disadvantages of each of the three system development methods?
ANS:
With structured analysis, changes can be costly, especially in later phases. Requirements are defined
early, and can change during development. Users might not be able to describe their needs until they
can see examples of features and functions. With object-oriented analysis, this somewhat newer
method of development might be less familiar to development team members. Also, the interaction of
objects and classes can be complex in larger systems. With agile/adaptive methods, team members
need a high level of technical and communications skills. Lack of structure and documentation can
introduce risk factors. Finally, the overall project might be subject to scope change as user
requirements change.

3. Describe two agile methods.
ANS:
Two examples are Scrum and Extreme Programming (XP). Scrum is a popular process with agile
developers, and refers to a powerful effort to achieve short-term goals. In Scrum, team members play
specific roles and interact in intense sessions. In this method, phases overlap and the entire process is
performed by one cross-functional team. Extreme Programming is another adaptive process that
focuses on forceful interaction between developers and users to define and achieve project goals. XP
stresses certain key values, such as communication, simplicity, feedback, courage, and respect among
team members. When properly implemented, its proponents believe that Extreme Programming can
speed up development, reduce costs, and improve software quality. Time will tell whether this
innovative approach will be widely accepted.
PTS: 1 REF: 23|24 TOP: Critical Thinking
CASE
Critical Thinking Questions
Case 1
Roark has just joined the company and in his role as lead analyst, he will be responsible for
determining which systems development method the team uses to create the new application for a
major medical supplier.
1. After Roark has spent a week getting to know the members of the team, including their strengths and
weaknesses, and what has worked well (and not so well) for this particular team in the past, one theme
keeps recurring: the team has particularly weak communications skills. Which of the following
methods, then, is he least likely to use, given what he knows about the disadvantages of each method?
a. structured analysis
b. agile/adaptive methods
c. object-oriented analysis
d. rapid application development
ANS:
B
2. It is a new day at the firm. Roark has been in place for a few weeks, strengthening the communications
skills of his employees, getting them to work much better together. Now, the challenge that he faces is
not an internal one; it lies with the client, which is increasingly showing itself to be incapable of
sticking with decisions. Roark, based on his past experience with other clients like this, is afraid that
the client will throw them a curveball and want to make changes late in the game — but that they also
will be unwilling to absorb the costs of those changes. For this reason, Roark eliminates which of the
following methods of development?
a. structured analysis
b. agile/adaptive methods
c. object-oriented analysis
d. rapid application development
ANS:

A
Critical Thinking Questions
Case 2
Maddy has been performing at a very high level at the firm, and so when two colleagues of hers who
are currently leading other development efforts get sick or leave the company, she is asked to step in
and help manage these two other efforts.
3. When Maddy sits down at the first meeting that she is able to attend at which the first group is
gathering, she hears them discussing the feasibility study in which they are currently engaged. She
knows, then, in which phase of the SDLC this team currently is. Which phase is it?
a. systems analysis
b. systems design
c. systems planning
d. systems implementation
ANS:
C
4. After leaving the first meeting, Maddy goes down the hall to meet with the outgoing manager of the
second team. In that meeting, he shares with her the latest draft of the systems requirement document,
which is nearly complete. In which phase is the second team currently?
a. systems analysis
b. systems design
c. systems planning
d. systems implementation
ANS:
A

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atmosphere was stifling. He felt as though he were choking, for in
spite of the thick handkerchief about his face the biting gas seemed
to fly into his lungs, and at once set him coughing violently. But,
determined not to be beaten, he overcame the spasm, and, carefully
holding his breath, moved towards one of the prostrate figures.
It was no easy matter to pass the loop around the helpless man, but
Tyler worked vigorously at the task. Placing the coil of rope upon the
corn close to the feet of one of the officers, he held it there with one
toe, and at once grasped the man by the ankles. A lusty heave

brought him sliding along through the grain, and scarcely three
seconds had passed before the loop was about his body and
securely fastened beneath his arms.
"Hoist!" he endeavoured to shout, but his muffled face and the
choking gas deadened the words. But for all that, his wishes were
clear to those above, who stood staring over the hatchway, for Tyler
stood erect and waved eagerly to them. There was a shout, the rope
tautened, and then at first slowly, and afterwards with a rush which
showed that willing hands were at the winch, Tyler and the officer
for whose rescue he had so gallantly descended were hoisted out of
the hold. With a swing the boom was brought towards the side, a
couple of men rushed at the dangling figures, and ere the naval
officer who witnessed the scene had time to give the hoarse
command, "Lower away!" the two were lying upon the deck, while
the mate of the freight-ship was eagerly removing the loop from the
figure of the unconscious officer. As for Tyler, he sat for a short
space as if dazed, while he gasped and struggled for his breath. But
the knowledge that one victim still remained below, that a second
life was at stake, roused him to energy. With a shiver which he could
not suppress in spite of every effort, he struggled to his feet and
dashed at the hatchway.
"Lower again!" he managed to call out between the paroxysms of
coughing which shook him. "Now, let go!"
There was no doubt that the real danger, the urgency of the
situation, was impressed upon all who were helping in the rescue;
and it did not need the frantic gestures and husky words of
command of the elderly naval officer to stimulate the hands to rapid
action. By now, too, some fifteen men had assembled, and while a
few promptly carried the unconscious officer aside, and set about to
restore his animation, the remainder at once leapt to the winch, and
set the handles whirling round at such a pace that the rope and its
burden were swiftly at their destination. At the same instant the
American mate swung himself on to the ladder and went swarming
down till he reached the deck below, where he remained ready to

lend assistance should he be called for. And well was it that he did
so, for that stifling gas well-nigh overcame Tyler in his work of
rescue. Holding his breath as he had done before, the latter dashed
towards the second prostrate figure once he had obtained a
foothold. Then, following the same tactics, he placed the loop in
position and grasped the man by his ankles.
"Heave! Pull ho!" As if the words would help the gallant young fellow
below, the anxious watchers above gave vent to them, their shouts
increasing almost to shrieks of encouragement in their eagerness.
"Heave! He's almost through. Once more, and you will have him in
position. Ah! he's down!"
A feeling of consternation and dismay suddenly silenced the voices,
and a crowd of eager, anxious faces hung over the hatchway, while a
couple of volunteers sprang at the ladder.
"Stand aside!" shouted one of them huskily, a big, raw-boned
American sailor. "The lad's down, and we're not the boys to stand
here looking on and see him die. Say, maties, pitch me the end of
the rope, and I'll go in for him!"
Swiftly descending the ladder, he had almost reached the deck
below, and was looking eagerly about him for the expected rope,
when another voice reached the ears of the onlookers.
"Easy there! I'm nearest the spot, and I'll pull them out, whatever
the cost. Jim Bowman, you can make a turn about your body with
the rope, and stand ready if there's need. I'm for it right away as I
am."
Stuffing a bulky red handkerchief between his teeth, the mate
glanced swiftly at his comrade to see that the words were fully
understood. Then with a bound he leapt over the low combing of the
hatchway, and alighted on the piled-up corn.
"He'll do it! He's the right man to tackle the business! Stand ready,
boys!"

Those above stared down at the scene below with eyes which
threatened to burst from their sockets, so great was each one's
eagerness. And all the while, as the plucky mate tugged at the
prostrate figure of the officer, they sent hoarse shouts echoing down
into the hold. Breathlessly they watched as the loop slipped upwards
till it encircled the body, and then a dozen lusty individuals rushed
towards the winch, ready to lend a hand should those already
stationed there prove too weak for the task.
"Hoist!" The big American, who stood on the lower deck, bellowed
the command so loudly that it was heard far away along the dock
"Hoist smartly, boys!"
Round went the winch, but on this occasion less swiftly than before,
for the load to be dragged from the hold was heavier! But still the
handles flew round rapidly, and within a short space of time Tyler,
the officer, and the American mate lay in a heap upon the deck,
where they were instantly pounced upon by those who had helped
in the rescue.

CHAPTER II
Eastward Ho!
How's that, my lad? There, open your eyes and look about you, and
then take a sip at this glass."
Tyler felt a strong arm about his shoulders, and a hard rim of
something cold against his teeth. Then a few drops of water flowed
into his mouth, and instantly he was awake, though only half
conscious of his surroundings.
"Eh," he murmured, "what's the matter? Time to get up? Oh!"
He gave vent to a little cry of pain as he suddenly became aware of
the fact that a red-hot band seemed to encircle his waist. Then he
quickly realized the cause, and sat up with a start, remembering that
he had placed a coil of rope about him, and that the loop to which
the officer was hung must have pulled strongly upon him.
"Feeling sore, my lad?" was asked in tones which seemed familiar.
"The rope had hitched as tight as a hangman's noose, and we had
to cut it adrift before we could free you. No wonder you have pain,
for I expect that your sides and chest are badly chafed. But you're
alive, thank God! And have come to at last. Gracious! What a fright
you have given us all! But come, see if you cannot stand on your
feet and walk about, for it will do you all the good in the world."
"Stand! Rather! I should think I could!" responded Tyler eagerly,
suddenly becoming aware of the fact that the elderly naval officer
supported him. "Thank you, sir! I'll get up at once."
"Then heave, and there you are."
Placing his hand beneath Tyler's arms, the officer helped him to rise
to his feet, and then, fearful lest he should be giddy and fall, stood
beside him holding him by the coat.

"Feel steady?" he asked. "A bit shaky, I've no doubt, but another sip
and a little water on your head will put you right. Here, one of you
lads give a hand and we'll take him to the nearest pump."
There was a group of sailors standing around watching Tyler with
interested eyes, and instantly a number sprang forward to support
him. Then with faltering steps, and gait which would have caused
him to reel from side to side had it not been for their help, they led
him across the dock to a shed some little distance away. A pump
was erected beside it, and before many seconds had passed a
stream of ice-cold water was gushing from the spout into the trough
below.
"Now, off with his coat and shirt, and one of you boys hop right
along to fetch him a towel," cried the big American, who happened
to form one of the party. "Slick's the word, my lad, and back with it
smartly. Here, stand right aside, and let me hold on to the
youngster."
A big, muscular arm was put around Tyler's tottering figure, and he
was deftly placed in such a position as would enable the water to
flow upon his head and shoulders. Gush! It came surging from the
pump at the handle of which one of the men worked vigorously, and
in a little while Tyler was glad to withdraw with dripping head and
face, gasping for breath with almost as much energy as had been
the case after his first ascent from the hold. Then a towel was
thrown over his shoulders, and willing hands set to work to dry him.
"Feel more like yourself, eh? Just bring along that comb, sonny, and
we'll fix him up, proper," said the American. "Now, on with your shirt
and coat, and where's the boy that's holding on to his cap?"
Their friendly attentions almost bewildered Tyler, for he was unused
to them, and, in fact, at another time would have blushed for shame
at finding himself treated so much like a child. But in spite of the
cold douche to his head he still felt dizzy. His brain swam with the
effects of the choking gas, which had been given off by the cargo of
corn, while huge black spots seemed to float dreamily about in the

air and disturbed his vision. Then, too, though he manfully
endeavoured to keep his figure erect, his legs would tremble in spite
of himself, while his knees shook and knocked together in a manner
which threatened to bring him headlong to the ground.
"I'm a baby!" he managed to gasp in tones of vexation. "Just fancy a
fellow of my age not being able to stand up alone!"
The thought distressed him so greatly that once again he made a
futile effort to remain on his feet, only to find himself in much the
same helpless condition. Then a biscuit-box was placed beneath him,
and he sat down with a feeling of relief.
"Baby! No sich thing, let me tell you, sir!" exclaimed the big
American indignantly. "You're just shook up, and that's the truth of
it, for I reckon that that 'ere gas wur strong enough to upset a Red
Injun, and much more a chap of your constitootion. Jest you sit tight
and hold on to your tongue while we pour a few drops of this stuff
down yer throat. Baby! Ho!"
With a shake of his head the big sailor turned to one of his comrades
and took from him a cracked glass containing a dark and evil-
smelling liquid.
"Up with your chin," he said, placing the glass to Tyler's lips. "Now,
down with this at a gulp."
Obedient to the order, Tyler opened his mouth and swallowed the
draught. Then he shivered again, for the spirit was strong and
pungent. But in spite of its nasty flavour, and of the uncomfortable
sense of burning which it left in his throat, he was bound to confess
that the draught did wonders for him. Indeed, scarcely five minutes
were gone before strength came back to his legs, while his brain and
eyes seemed to have cleared wonderfully. A pat on the back from
the big hand of the American encouraged him to stand again, and
with a gay laugh he found himself on his feet.
"That's better!" he exclaimed in cheery tones. "What's become of
the officers?"

"I reckon they're jest like you, a trifle shook up and put out, don't
yer know," was the answer. "Yer must understand, young fellah, that
chaps can't go right down into a hold what's full of that gas without
feeling mighty bad. You've all had a near squeak for yer lives, I
reckon, and ef it hadn't er been for you, young shaver, them two
officers would have been awaiting their funeral right now. I tell yer,
me and the other covies is jest hoping to make yer acquaintance.
We'd be proud to get hold of yer fingers, and, Jehoshaphat! as soon
as you're well we hope to do it. Now, will yer come aboard and take
a sleep in one of our bunks, to drive the muddle out of yer head, or
will yer go slick away home? Jest say the word, and we'll help you,
whatever's the case."
"One moment, please. I desire to speak to this young gentleman,"
called someone from outside the circle, and as the sailors sprang
aside the naval officer who had already befriended Tyler entered the
circle and grasped the latter warmly by the hand.
"You are more yourself now," he said with a friendly smile, "and I
can therefore speak to you as I would have done half an hour ago
had you been in a fit condition to listen to me. On behalf of the two
young officers, whose lives you so gallantly saved, I thank you from
the bottom of my heart. The deed was a noble one, for, seeing their
insensible figures lying in that poisonous hold below, you, like
everyone else, must have realized instantly the great risk to be
incurred by attempting their rescue. The warning which the mate
gave told you that gas lay below the hatchway, and that it had been
the cause of striking down my officers. In spite of that you rushed to
help them, and I must admit that the promptness of your action, the
remarkable rapidity with which you took in the situation and formed
your plans, filled me with amazement. To be candid, I myself was so
dumbfounded and taken aback that I stood there helpless. But then,
you see, I am no longer a young man, and have lost that keenness
with which the junior members of my service are invariably filled.
"Now that I come to look into the facts carefully it is a matter of
surprise to me that you did not rush to the ladder the instant you

realized the necessity for action. But how could you possibly have
rescued either of those unfortunate fellows by that means?
Obviously two men at least would have been required for the task.
You saw that, and at once decided upon an easier and more
effective plan. No one could have made his preparations more
completely or more rapidly. Your loops were made in a sailor-like
manner which does credit to your father's teaching. For the rest, I
am too full of gratitude to you to say much at this moment. Your
courage and resolution have delighted me and I congratulate you
most heartily."
Placing one hand upon Tyler's shoulder the officer grasped his
fingers eagerly with the other, and squeezed them in a manner
which showed better than words how much his feelings were
aroused. Indeed he might have remained there for many minutes,
patting Tyler gently upon the back meanwhile, had it not been for
the enthusiastic sailors who stood around, and who had without
exception pressed eagerly forward to hear what he had to say.
Seeing his final action, however, at once reminded them of their own
decision, expressed by their burly comrade, who once more came to
the front.
"You'll excuse us, Admiral," he said with a slouching salute, "but like
you we're firm set on shaking. Say, young fellow, we're proud to
know yer."
Unabashed by the presence of an officer of such seniority in the
navy, they crowded forward, and each in turn grasped the blushing
Tyler by the hand. Then, as if that had been insufficient to satisfy
them, they tossed their caps high in the air, and gave him three
rousing cheers.
"There," said the officer, lifting his hands as soon as the shout had
died down, "like myself you have shown your appreciation; and now,
if you will leave this young gentleman to me, I will see that he is
taken home. Come," he continued, turning to Tyler with a smile,
"you are still shaken and feel the effects of that poisonous gas. It
will be as well if you return to your father, and rest for the remainder

of the day. Hail a conveyance, my lads, and tell the man to drive
right on to the dock, for we must not allow this young man to walk
too much at present. Yes, those are the doctor's orders, and I am
here to see that they are strictly enforced," he went on, as Tyler
directed an appealing glance towards him. "Fortunately for you and
my two officers, one of our ship's surgeons happened to be passing
as you were hauled up from the hold, and he was able to attend to
you at once. Seeing that you were coming round he left you in my
hands and devoted all his care to the others, who were in a very
grave condition. They, too, I am thankful to say, have regained
consciousness, so that I no longer feel anxiety on their behalf.
Permit me, young gentleman, here is the conveyance."
Taking Tyler by the arm, he led him to a fly which had just driven up,
and having ushered him in, took the remaining vacant seat himself.
"Drive to Captain John Richardson's," he called out, and then
resumed his conversation with Tyler, telling him as they went that
the mate of the American ship, who had pluckily helped in the
rescue, had suffered no ill effects. Half an hour later, much to the
astonishment of the captain, who still sat in his porch keeping watch
upon the long strip of water which ebbed before his cottage, a
conveyance came rolling along the main Portsmouth road, and
halted just opposite the wicket which gave access to his garden. At
once his spy-glass went to his eyes, for he was somewhat short-
sighted, and his amazement was profound when he discovered Tyler
walking towards him, looking pale and shaky, and arm in arm with a
gray-headed naval officer. Had it not been for his shattered hip he
would have risen to his feet to greet the new-comer, for naval
officers seldom or never came his way. As he had said when
speaking to his son, he was a poor old hulk, doomed to live in that
out-of-the-way spot, forgotten or unknown by men who might have
been his comrades had ill-luck not assailed him. In his excitement,
the clay pipe and box of matches went tumbling to the ground,
where the former smashed into a hundred pieces. Then the old
instincts of discipline came back to him and he lifted his hand to his
cap with all the smartness he could command.

It was fine to see the way in which this stranger approached the
captain. Halting there for one moment, and drawing himself stiffly
erect, he returned the salute swiftly. Then he sprang forward and
greeted the old sailor effusively.
"Proud to meet you, Captain Richardson!" he exclaimed. "Delighted
to make your acquaintance, and to know the father of this gallant
young fellow. But, surely we have met before? Richardson? Tell me,
sir, when did you enter the service?"
"Forty years ago the fifth of November next. Midshipman aboard the
flag-ship Victory, bound from Portsmouth for the Mediterranean. And
you?"
"An old ship-mate of yours or I much mistake?" exclaimed the officer
with eagerness. "Don't you remember Davies—Tom Davies, of the
Victory—my first commission too. Why, of course you do. A year
after I joined I was drafted into another ship, and so we were
separated, and have remained so until this moment."
"And I remained aboard for five solid years," burst in the captain
enthusiastically, his face all aglow at the recollection of his earlier
days. "Then I was transferred to the Bellerophon, and again to
another ship. We cruised in the East, and many's the brush we had
with rascally slave-dealers. Then came war with France, and,
returning to home waters, we coasted along the enemy's country,
popping in here and there to survey the forts, and dropping upon
any vessels that we could come across. At Brest we were under a
heavy fire, and that, sir, was the time when the rascals winged me
with a shot. It broke me up, and as a consequence of the wound I
was laid aside for good in this old cottage."
As the two spoke they still gripped hands, while tears of excitement
and happiness streamed down the sunken cheeks of the captain.
Poor fellow! It was joy indeed to him to meet a comrade after all
these years, and still greater happiness to find himself conversing
with a man still upon the active list of the service to which he had
belonged. For many years now he had occupied that cottage, and

owing to the wound which had crippled him had seldom moved
beyond the garden. Occasionally the old salt who lived with him, and
acted as his only servant, placed him tenderly in a wheeled chair,
and took him for an airing. But Southampton was beyond his reach,
and Portsmouth utterly out of the question, and so it had fallen out
that the captain had on very few occasions met with officers of the
royal navy. A few who had retired lived in the neighbourhood, but
they were active men, able to get about, and seldom dropped in for
a chat at the cottage. Therefore this unexpected visit, the meeting
with a man who had skylarked with him when they were lads,
roused him out of his melancholy, and raised his spirits to the
highest.
Seating himself beside Captain Richardson, Admiral Davies,—for that
was the rank to which the officer had attained,—conversed with him
in animated tones for more than half an hour, telling him of the
rescue from the hold, and of the gallant conduct of his son.
"I am thankful that it occurred to me to visit the shipping myself," he
said. "As a rule two officers would have been considered sufficient
for the task, and it is most unusual for one of my rank to undertake
such a duty. However, on this occasion I felt bound to go, for the
Lords of the Admiralty are trying an experiment. The greater part of
their flour is home-grown, but prices are high, and England is not a
large corn-growing country. For that reason cargoes have been
ordered from America, and when the ships arrive a careful inspection
of the grain is necessary. Had that not been the case I should have
remained in my office, for I am in charge of the station, and thereby
should have lost this opportunity of renewing our friendship. But
about your son; have you decided what to do with him? He is a fine
young fellow, and would look well in naval uniform."
"And he himself longs for the life," exclaimed the captain. "Though I
myself had the worst of fortune in the service, and in spite of the
fact that their lordships have not treated me too well, I still think
that there is nothing like a commission in Her Majesty's fleet. But it
is out of the question, for to obtain a nomination nowadays influence

is required, and also I have not the means to supply the proper
outfit. The lad would be miserable, for he would not have a sixpence
to jingle in his pocket, and would have the mortification of living with
comrades who were better off than himself. And besides, he is too
old. To have obtained a commission I should have applied three or
four years ago. Now he is seventeen, and almost a man."
"In pluck and resolution he is at any rate," said the admiral warmly,
"and he deserves far more than words of thanks for his gallant
action of this morning. Now listen to me. I like the lad, and, as in
your case, I too am devoted to the navy. I have by chance come
across a young fellow eminently fitted for the service, and I shall not
stand aside and allow Her Majesty to lose the opportunity of
obtaining such a suitable young officer. As your son he has a claim
on the Admiralty, and when I describe to their lordships the manner
in which he rescued two of my officers they will at once waive all
question of his age, and I feel sure will promptly appoint him to a
ship. But influence, as you very truly say, is necessary to push a
young man on in the world. I do not mean that a midshipman
cannot fight his way upwards without friends, for that has been
done on scores of occasions; but it gives a lad a better chance if he
is put under the eye of some commander who will take an interest in
him. Then he will get opportunities of special duties, and if he is a
smart lad he may distinguish himself. Will you leave the matter in my
hands, and trust to me to do the best for him? I would take him
myself, as I have a decided interest in him, but then, as I have told
you, I have a shore billet, and his duties would give him but few
chances of promotion. He must be appointed to a ship cruising in
foreign waters, and he must be placed under an officer who is a
friend of my own. There will be no difficulty about the matter, for
one of the rescued officers happens to be of excellent family, and a
son of one of the sea-lords. He will see to it that the commission is
granted, and I have little doubt that within a few weeks I shall be
able to return to you with the information that your son is appointed
to the China squadron, and under the friendly wing of Keppel, a
smart young officer with whom I am well acquainted. There, say no

more, for I see that you fully agree. Good-bye for the present! I shall
hope to have the pleasure of calling again."
Rising from his seat the admiral squeezed the captain's hand, and
then, having gone through the formality of saluting, an act of
courtesy which pleased his host vastly, he walked with Tyler towards
the gate, one hand placed affectionately on his shoulder.
It would be impossible to describe the delight and happiness with
which each inhabitant of the tiny cottage was filled at the good news
which the admiral had brought. Captain Richardson could scarcely
contain himself for joy, and but for the hip which crippled him would
have strutted about the place puffed up with pride at the action of
his son. As for Tyler, the prospect of a commission was so fascinating
and so absolutely unexpected that he felt in a whirl, and, finding
conversation impossible, snatched at his cap and went bounding
along the great main road.
A month later, as the captain occupied his accustomed seat in the
porch of the cottage, a cloud of dust and the clatter of wheels
attracted his attention in the direction of Southampton, and instantly
up went his spy-glass, one hand steadied the end, and he looked
casually to see what might have caused it; for to this poor crippled
officer anything, each conveyance which passed, was of interest,
and served to brighten the long days. He was familiar with each of
the coaches which drove along the main road, the drivers in every
case saluting him with their whips as they came rattling by, and no
doubt turning the next moment to the passengers seated upon the
box to describe the old salt who occupied the cottage. On this
occasion, however, it was no coach which had given rise to the cloud
of dust, but a smaller conveyance, at the sight of which the captain
was thrown into a condition of excitement.
"There's not more than one which passes here in a week," he said,
"and for that reason I am sure that that will be the admiral. Tyler!
Tyler! Where are you? Just run down to the gate and be ready to
meet him."

It proved to be the admiral, as he had prophesied, and within a little
while that officer was standing before him, greeting him with a
hearty shake of the hand, and looking at him with a smile the
sereneness of which told that he had been successful. Behind him
stepped the same two officers who had been rescued from the hold,
and these at once came forward to be introduced. Then they turned
to Tyler and gripped his hand in a manner which showed their
gratitude.
"For you," said the admiral, suddenly producing a long blue
envelope, and handing it to Tyler. "I will save you the trouble of
reading it by telling you that you have been given a commission, and
that orders are enclosed within for you to sail without delay for the
China station. Your post will be on H.M.S. Dido, and your
commander will be the Honourable Henry Keppel, Captain in the
Royal Navy. And now, if you will kindly show my officers over the
garden, I will discuss a little matter with your father.
"I have more to say," he went on, addressing Tyler's father, when
the three had moved away, "and my news, I hope, will give you
great pleasure. When I left you I went straight to those in authority
and represented matters as I had found them. They agreed with me
that it was a scandal and a shame that an officer should be treated
as you have been. I pointed out that your pension was insufficient,
with the result that it has been largely increased, and will enable you
to reside, if you wish it, in a more populated district. Another point,
you can now see your way to giving your son a small allowance, and
so putting him upon an equal footing with his comrades. Then, too, I
propose to help, for I am a single man, and my pay is of ample
dimensions. I have taken a liking to the lad, and I mean to push his
fortunes to the utmost. And now let us consider the question of his
outfit, which must be gone into immediately. He will require uniform
suited to this climate and also to the China seas, and must be
equipped as well as the most fortunate of youngsters. That, again, I
shall make my business if you have no objections, for you must
recollect that you cannot easily see to the matter yourself, and,
besides, it would gratify me to be allowed to provide all that is

necessary. Unfortunately it turns out that no ship belonging to our
fleets is bound for the East at this moment, and therefore Tyler will
have to make the passage in a merchantman. But that will do no
harm, for it will give him an opportunity of getting used to the sea,
and will prepare him for his coming duties."
"Quite so," gasped the invalid captain, scarcely able to believe the
good words to which he had been listening, or to understand the
sudden change in his fortunes. "But he is no landlubber, let me tell
you, Admiral, for he has hosts of friends in these parts, and during
the holidays has often put to sea for quite a week at a time. He can
splice and knot, for Tom Erskine, the old pensioner who acts as my
servant, has taught him thoroughly. But how can I thank you?"
"Thank the lad, my dear Captain. Tyler is the one to whom you must
show your gratitude, and I, too, feel indebted to him; for had it not
been for his gallant action you and I would still have remained
ignorant of one another, though living separated by but a mile or
two. Think of the yarns we shall have together, and of the tales of
our boyhood's days which we shall be able to spin. You must come
and live close into the town, and I know of a little house there which
would suit you admirably, for it is posted high up, and there is a
sheltered seat before it from which a more extensive view even than
this can be obtained. There is many an old sailor living there who
will be delighted to come in and smoke a pipe with you, and instead
of sitting here alone for the greater part of every day you will find
that you have a new and happier life before you; for you are a man
who loves companionship, and in Southampton you will make many
a friend.
"And now to complete this matter, for we have very little time in
which to delay. Sit here and think quietly about the question of the
house, and let me know in a couple of days or more, when I return
to visit you. Meanwhile I will take Tyler to my quarters, and will see
to his outfit. Let him come for a week, which will give sufficient time
to the tailors to try on the various garments. Then he can return to
you, and can spend the remainder of his time in England at home."

It wanted very little persuasion on the part of the admiral to
convince Captain Richardson that he had made a staunch friend,
who was acting for his and Tyler's benefit. And therefore he placed
no difficulty in the way of the latter's proposed visit to Southampton,
but instead at once shouted for him.
"The admiral has kindly asked you to go into the town with him for a
week," he called out. "Run to your room at once, like a good fellow,
and pack your best clothes into a bag, for you must remember that
you are now a Queen's officer and must dress becomingly."
Half an hour later the admiral and the two officers who had
accompanied him to the cottage took their leave of Captain
Richardson, and having been joined by Tyler, crowded into the
hackney-coach which had conveyed them from the town of
Southampton, and went trundling away along the road. Behind them
they left the captain, jubilant at the good fortune which had
suddenly come to him and his son, and eagerly looking forward to
the change before him. No longer was he troubled by the question
of Tyler's future, for now that was thoroughly settled. Then, again,
the long dreary winter, which had usually dragged by miserably for
him, was likely to prove in the coming months the happiest he had
spent for many a year; for he would certainly leave this out-of-the-
way spot, to which ill-health and inadequate income had fixed him,
and would make his future home in Southampton, where he would
be within easy reach of any who cared to show their friendship. In
addition he would have the patronage of Admiral Davies, and that,
together with the fact that they had been shipmates together in their
earlier days, would secure a number of acquaintances—and, with
such a man as Captain Richardson was, acquaintanceship would lead
to certain and lasting friendships. Yes, the prospect was a bright
one, and on that day, as the old white-headed sailor sat back in the
porch, pipe and spy-glass in hand, and the old familiar scene before
him, he felt that he was about to commence another existence
altogether; he looked younger, the sunken cheeks seemed to have
filled out a little, whilst the eyes sparkled in an unusual manner.
Indeed, so alluring was the future that the captain remained at his

post long after the hackney-coach had reached its destination, and
only retired within the cottage when night was falling. Then, seated
in his cosy parlour, he took up the Navy List and looked up the
names of a few of his old comrades and that of the officer under
whose command Tyler was to be.
"Yes," he murmured, "the lad will have every opportunity, for I have
heard of Captain Keppel, and everyone agrees that he is a dashing
and distinguished officer."
When Tyler returned to the cottage a week later his father scarcely
recognized the spruce young fellow who came walking through the
garden towards him, for our hero had now discarded civilian clothes
and was dressed in a blue uniform which suited him admirably.
Behind him he had left in the admiral's quarters his sea-chest and a
very complete outfit with which his generous friend had provided
him. In addition, he came primed with the information that he was
to sail at the end of three weeks, and that his destination was to be
Singapore, where the Dido would eventually put in to victual.
The remaining days of his stay in England were extremely busy
ones, for, once Admiral Davies had taken an interest in any matter,
he was not the man to permit of delay. Indeed, within a very few
hours of Tyler's return he drove up in a hackney-coach prepared for
the reception of the invalid, with a comfortable couch and thick soft
cushions stretched between the seats. On this Captain Richardson
was gently placed, and the trio at once drove to the house which the
admiral had selected as a likely residence. Arrived there, the captain
was carried to the sheltered seat of which mention had been made,
and was then shown the interior of the dwelling.
"It will do splendidly!" he exclaimed with enthusiasm as they
returned to the cottage. "For, thanks to my increased income, I shall
easily be able to pay the rent demanded by the agent. Then, again,
the furniture in the cottage will be sufficient to fill the rooms, while
outside there is a garden which with Tom's help will produce all the
vegetables that we require. But more than all, the sheltered seat
commands a view up and down the Water, and from it I can see not

only the ships sailing there, but can look right into the harbour, while
the Portsmouth road stretches like a white ribbon clearly before me,
and my own seat in the porch is under view. No doubt on many a
day in the future I shall fix my glass upon it, and bear in mind the
times when a poor old crippled sailor sat there forlorn and eager for
friends. If it can be arranged I will change houses before Tyler
starts; and there should be no difficulty in the matter, for the cottage
is held on a monthly tenancy, while the residence in Southampton is
ready and waiting for me."
Accordingly notice was promptly given to the owner of the cottage,
while certain necessary decorations and repairs were made to the
new house. Then a large van arrived, to which, under the admiral's
friendly superintendence, the goods and chattels belonging to the
captain were transferred, while that individual was once more put
into the hackney-coach and driven to temporary quarters in the
town. A few days later he was settled in his new residence, and
when Tyler set sail from the harbour en route to Plymouth, where he
was to embark upon a merchantman bound for Singapore, he had
the satisfaction of knowing that his father was in comfortable
surroundings, with many friends at hand. Standing by the after-rail
he steadied himself against it and fixed the spy-glass, with which he
had been presented by the officers whom he had rescued, upon the
sheltered corner high up in the town. There was the old crippled
captain, his gaze directed through his glass at the vessel which bore
his son away. That he realized the fact of Tyler's presence there
upon the poop was evident, for as the latter snatched at his cap and
waved it about his head, the old sailor dragged a huge red
handkerchief from his breast-pocket and let it blow out in the
breeze. Thus did father and son take leave of one another, the
former to commence a life of happiness to which he had been too
long a stranger, and the latter to cross the sea, where many
adventures were to befall him.

CHAPTER III
Preparing for a Journey
Six days had passed, from the date when Tyler Richardson set out
from Southampton and dropped down to the open sea, before he
reached Plymouth Harbour, for the vessel upon which he had sailed
had met with contrary winds, and was much delayed. However,
arrive he did at last at the busy port, to find the Alice Mary on the
point of departure. Indeed, as Tyler ascended the gangway, followed
closely by his chest, the bell was ringing loudly to warn friends and
relatives to leave, while the blue-peter at the fore showed that all
was in readiness. Sailors were running about the decks in obedience
to the orders of the captain, while passengers stood about in every
position, hampering the movements of the men, as they looked
towards the shore and waved their hands and handkerchiefs. A few
of the gentlemen were smoking placidly on the poop, as though
departure from England on a long voyage was nothing out of the
ordinary, while elsewhere some of the ladies were weeping bitterly
at the thought of leaving. Tyler threaded his way amongst them, and
having seen the cabin which he was to occupy, and deposited his
smaller belongings there, he returned to the deck and looked on at
the scene with interest.
"A big muddle it all looks, does it not?" said a voice at his elbow,
and, turning swiftly, he became aware of the fact that one of the
passengers, a tall, bearded gentleman, stood beside him with a
pleasant smile of greeting upon his face.
"But it will all settle down within a few hours," went on the stranger,
without waiting for Tyler's answer, "and, bless you! we shall all feel
perfectly at home before we are much older. In fact, within a week
we shall be the best of friends, and, I doubt not, shall feel as though
we had known one another all our lives. By the end of the voyage

some of us will have made such excellent companions that we shall
be loth to part, while a few, wearied by the monotony of the long
passage, will have squabbled. That is often the ending of a trip like
this. But, pardon me, my name is Beverley, and I am for Singapore.
May I ask your destination?"
Tyler at once told him, and then the two fell into conversation, which
lasted until the ship had warped out of the harbour and was steering
for the sea. Then they separated to go to their cabins, only to find
that they were to share the same. And so it happened that
throughout the voyage, which lasted for three months, they were
continually together, and became the fastest of friends.
"And so you, like myself, are bound for Singapore," said Mr. Beverley
two months after the Alice Mary had sailed from Plymouth; "and you
tell me that you are likely to join the Dido there. I think that you will
be fortunate if you do so, for I happen to be well informed as to the
movements of the ships, and I know that the vessel of which we
speak is at present in the China Sea, engaged on a special mission,
and is not likely to return to Singapore until late next year.
Consequently you will either have to remain kicking your heels at the
latter place, or you will have to tranship and go aboard the first
merchantman bound for Hong-Kong. Now let me tell you of my
plans. I am engaged by the Government to go to the island of
Borneo, with a view to obtaining information as to its products. At
the same time I have other people's interests in hand, for I am
travelling for a firm of rubber merchants who are seeking a new field
from which to obtain their supplies. Once before I was in the Eastern
Archipelago, and on that occasion I obtained experience which will
be of great value to me and which will help me on my journey. But
you may wonder why I am troubling you so much with my own
affairs, and for that reason I will explain. I told you that the Dido
was in the China seas, and was not likely to reach Singapore for
many months. But I did not say what was also in my knowledge,
namely that Captain Keppel has been ordered to return by way of
the archipelago, where he is to do his best to exterminate the

pirates, who are very numerous and infest the islands. Now,
supposing you sailed to Hong-Kong and missed the Dido!"
"It would be very disappointing," exclaimed Tyler, "and in that case I
should scarcely be able to report myself before a year had passed."
"Quite so! but if there was news at Singapore that the Dido was
already on her way, but would be delayed in the neighbourhood of
Borneo, how would you care for a trip to the island yourself, with the
hope that you might have the fortune to join her there?"
"Nothing I should like better!" burst in Tyler eagerly. "With you, do
you mean?"
"That is my proposition. I want a comrade to accompany me, and if
he is an officer in the British navy, all the better, for the power of
England is known in Borneo, and your uniform would command
respect on the coast. In the interior it would be a different matter,
for there the Dyak tribes have probably never seen a white man.
Indeed I hear that the country has never been explored, but
rumours which have reached us through the Malays tell how the
tribes within are for the most part fierce and warlike, and spend
their time in attacking one another, often with the sole object in view
of obtaining the heads of their enemies. But to return to my
proposition. I have known you now so long that I feel sure that we
should be capital friends. As I have said, I want a companion, while
you desire to join your ship. Her destination is the coast of Borneo,
while I also am bound in that direction. If on arrival at Singapore
you find it unwise to proceed to China, and can obtain permission
from the authorities, will you join me, in the hope of falling in with
the Dido? There will be no expense, but I can promise you a trip
which you may never have another opportunity of taking."
"It would be grand, and there is nothing that I should like more, Mr.
Beverley," cried Tyler with eagerness. "Of course I know nothing
about this Eastern Archipelago, and indeed did not know that I was
bound in that direction until a very few days before leaving England.
I am sure that the excursion would, as you say, be most fascinating,

and I will join you with the greatest pleasure if the authorities will
allow me to do so."
"Then I think that there will be no difficulty, though I am uncertain
at the present moment to whom your request should be made. I am
aware that there is a resident governor at Singapore, but whether
the Admiralty has a representative is another matter. In any case I
should go with you, and should show my orders, which would
command some amount of influence; then again, in six weeks' time,
when we hope to arrive at our destination, those at Singapore will
be able to tell us more about the Dido, and will be able to say
whether she is then in the China seas or whether she is shortly due
at the port. We must be guided by their report, though I think that
you will find that your ship is on her way to Borneo, and to the
islands thereabout. That being the case, we shall promptly get
sanction for you to join me, and as soon as we have made the
necessary preparations shall set sail. As for the latter, I propose to
purchase a small sailing schooner, and fit her up with a quantity of
muskets and a couple of six-pounder guns, for our journey will take
us into a part where the pirates from Sarebus abound, and they will
think nothing of pouncing upon us. However, if they see that we are
fully prepared, they will be more inclined to leave us alone, while,
should they be bold enough to attack us, we shall, I hope, beat
them handsomely, for we shall carry a crew of Malays, besides an
interpreter. But how is it that you obtained your commission? You
are decidedly over the age when youngsters are admitted to the
navy, and as you have never broached the subject yourself I have
not ventured to open it for fear of seeming curious. However, should
you care to tell me I should be most interested to hear."
Thus invited to give an account of his adventure at the docks, Tyler
did not hesitate to describe the latter in full, and to tell Mr. Beverley
how Admiral Davies had come forward to help the family.
"It was done on the spur of the moment," he said, as if in excuse for
his action, when referring to the rescue. "You see, there were the
two officers insensible, a shout from the mate told us clearly that

gas was the cause of the mishap, and, of course, after that the only
thing to do was to get them out as rapidly as possible."
"That may be so, Tyler, my lad," responded Mr. Beverley warmly,
"but I tell you that, though the need for rescue was apparent, there
are many who would have stood there on the deck wringing their
hands and incapable of giving active help. That's just where you
came to the fore, and it must have been solely due to your
promptness that those officers are alive to-day to tell the tale. I am
glad that you have won your commission in such a manner, and I
prophesy that your promotion will be rapid, for you are about to
serve under a very distinguished officer, and will come to him with a
character which will at once command his respect and approval. If
he sees that you are level-headed and a hard worker he will no
doubt give you many an opportunity of showing your worth. But it's
time for dinner, and we had better go below and dress. Later on we
can discuss the question of this trip to Borneo more completely. At
the present moment it is sufficient for me to know that I have
obtained the services of a young fellow who will be a companion,
and who, moreover, will be of great assistance should it ever be our
fortune to get into a tight corner."
Five weeks later the Alice Mary sighted the Island of Sumatra, and,
having passed through the Malacca Strait, made for the harbour of
Singapore. Tyler and Mr. Beverley, having seen their baggage landed,
at once went to an hotel, the latter promptly despatching a note to
the governor to ask for an appointment. Then they walked about the
town for an hour, to find on their return that an answer had arrived
requesting them to attend at the residency immediately.
"Glad to meet you," said the governor cordially, as they were
ushered into his room. "I am aware of your proposed expedition, Mr.
Beverley, for I have had orders to help you as much as possible.
Advices also have reached me with the information that Mr.
Richardson would come here with the object of joining H.M.S. Dido;
but I fear that there is disappointment before him, for a brig which
arrived last week came with the news that the ship in question had

left Hong-Kong recently in search of the pirates in the
neighbourhood of Borneo, and also to forward, if possible, the work
of an ardent philanthropist, by name James Brooke. I fear that our
young friend will have to remain in idleness for many weeks, unless,
of course, he receives orders to proceed to some other port in the
Archipelago."
"Which would exactly suit him, sir," exclaimed Mr. Beverley, who at
once proceeded to tell the governor of the proposal which he had
made to Tyler.
"It sounds an excellent plan to keep him out of mischief," was the
answer, given with a smile, "and I am sure that the voyage would be
most instructive for a young fellow such as he is. As to the necessary
permission, I can give you that on the spot, for there is not a single
representative of the royal navy in port at this moment. I will write a
letter, which he can carry with him, stating that as the Dido is not
likely to put in an appearance for some little time, and is in all
probability cruising in the neighbourhood of Borneo, this officer is to
proceed there with you on the distinct understanding that he is to
join the Dido as soon as he obtains news of her precise
whereabouts. That will smooth all possible difficulties, will it not?" he
went on with a pleasant smile, seating himself at the desk which
stood in the room, and making ready to write. "If questions are
asked as to why he did not remain here, he has only to produce the
letter; while again, should it turn out that by going with you the date
of his joining is delayed longer than it would have been had he
remained at Singapore, why, my written orders will clear him from all
reprimand."
Taking a piece of official paper, the governor hastily scrawled some
lines on it and stamped it at the bottom. Then he enclosed the letter
in an envelope and sealed it with wax.
"There," he said, handing it to Tyler, "may you have a very pleasant
trip! and when you fall in with the Dido just be so good as to give
my compliments to her commander. For you, Mr. Beverley, I trust
that your journey into the interior may lead to a favourable report,

for I myself am deeply interested in the island, and in Mr. James
Brooke, whose name I have already mentioned to you. I met him
here, where he stayed quite recently, refitting his vessel, the
Royalist, and I had the opportunity of many a conversation with him.
He has the interests of the Dyaks and inhabitants of Borneo Proper
at heart, and for that purpose he has sailed a second time for
Sarawak. I fear that he will encounter many difficulties and dangers,
and that it will be long before he meets with real success. But
excuse me, I am very busy to-day, and there are many others
waiting to speak with me."
Extending his hand the governor bade them farewell, and ushered
them out of his room, promising to help them in their preparations if
they should be in need of assistance. As for Tyler and his friend,
they returned to the hotel, and began to discuss the preparations to
be made before their departure.
"We shall require special clothes, of course," said the latter, "and I
think that corduroy breeches and high boots, and a strong but thin
linen jacket, will be necessary. A light sun-hat, which will retain its
position on the head when the wearer is moving actively, must form
part of the outfit, and in addition a cloak of heavy material must be
taken, for in Borneo scarcely a night passes without rain, often
amounting to a heavy downpour, from which we must be protected.
Indeed, my experience of these regions has taught me that a white
man rapidly falls a victim to ague if he is exposed to much damp and
cold. We must try to keep fever at arm's-length, and as a precaution
I shall take with me an abundance of quinine, besides other drugs
and surgical necessaries. A spare suit, with flannel shirts, and a
supply of foot-gear, will meet our requirements, and will allow us to
turn our attention to another portion of the outfit.
"Now about guns. I have already told you that I shall carry a supply
on board the schooner which I propose to purchase, but I shall also
obtain the best of weapons for ourselves, and in any case we shall
carry with us a pair of heavy revolvers. Don't think that I am inclined
to be pugnacious," he went on with a smile, "but there is nothing

like being fully prepared. We may, and I'm sure I hope that we shall,
pass amongst these tribes without molestation, but there is no
saying for certain, and it will do no harm to let the Dyaks see that
we are well armed. But I hope to win them over by presents, and for
that purpose I shall take with me bales of beads and coloured
cotton, besides looking-glasses, and cheap knick-knacks. A few
instruments for the preservation of specimens will be necessary; and
last, but by no means least, it will be desirable if you bring a suit of
uniform, to be worn on state occasions.
"And now for a vessel in which to sail. As we have little time to
spare, I propose that we leave for the docks at once and go to a
shipping agent. If there is anything in the port likely to prove
serviceable he is certain to have knowledge of the craft, and will be
able to give us particulars."
Issuing from the hotel once more, Tyler and Mr. Beverley walked
through the town, passing scores of natives of every hue and colour
as they went. Indeed, Singapore, like many another Eastern seaport,
is noted for its cosmopolitan population; and as they threaded their
way through the sunlit streets, Malays, Chinese, Hindoos from India,
and many another native from adjacent parts, jostled one another.
Europeans also were to be seen in abundance, but for the most part
these were driving in light carriages, or were mounted upon ponies.
To Tyler the scene was particularly fascinating, for he had never
been in the East before, and as he walked along, his eye noted with
admiration the lithe and graceful figures of the Malays, and the
stolid, heavily-built appearance of the Chinese.
"Yes, John Chinaman looks dull and uninteresting," remarked Mr.
Beverley, "but note his prosperity. He has found that his own native
land is filled to overflowing, and that competition is too severe, and
in consequence has emigrated. I have met him in divers parts, for he
is to be found in large numbers in the Straits Settlements, in Borneo,
and other islands in this archipelago. He has also found his way to
North America and to Australia, and everywhere he is prosperous. A
hard worker from his earliest days, and almost always contented

with his lot, he can feed himself upon the smallest wage, and still
save sufficient for a rainy day. Then in the course of years he
becomes his own master, the employer of labour, and a wealthy
citizen of whatever town he has made his home. But we must hurry
on, for there is much to settle before we set sail for Borneo."
Half an hour later they stood upon the dock-side looking with
admiration at a tiny schooner which lay moored in the basin, floating
daintily upon the water.
"A derelict," explained the shipping agent, who had accompanied
them to the quay. "She was found off the northern coast of Sumatra,
driving hither and thither upon the sea. No one can say to whom she
belonged, or how it happened that she was adrift and left all alone.
Perhaps her crew went ashore somewhere in the Archipelago and
were set upon by the natives. But it is idle to guess, and all that I
can tell you is that she was salvaged by a vessel making for this
port, and that the usual period allowed in these cases having passed
without a claimant coming forward, she is now to be sold by auction,
or to any private bidder who will give the price. There, sir, you can
see what handsome lines she has, and I can assure you that she is
sound and seaworthy. I have already mentioned the figure asked for
her, and you are at liberty to take her out for a day's cruise before
coming to a definite decision. Shall I make the necessary
arrangements and place a crew aboard?"
"I like her looks," said Mr. Beverley, "and we will try her. When can
you be ready?"
"To-morrow morning shall see all arrangements completed, and I
myself will come with you," replied the agent. "And now as to the
other questions which you put to me. I can find you ten men to form
a crew with the greatest ease, and I happen to know of a young
fellow who would gladly go with you as boatswain. He was a sailor
aboard a merchantman, but fell sick when the ship lay here
discharging her cargo, and was at once taken to the hospital, where
he remained for long after the ship had sailed. He is now well and

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