This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1856. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER III. THE PILOT'S STORY. My earliest recollections (commenced the pilot) after leaving school, where, I suppose, I received my first rudiments of knowledge, are coupled with anything but pleasing reminiscences; for, upon my being brought away from the academy, I was led to suppose by my august parents, who had entertained no doubt of my making a figure in the world, as some one that would be somebody, that I should be called on to act, youth as I was, in a most sedate manner, and to entertain ideas and deport myself as became a man. No opportunity was lost of their tutoring me to follow their directions. All these little interludes and lectures I most attentively listened to, but never for a moment acted in accordance with them. It was at last arranged that I should at once enter college; and after being permitted to spend a few months at the sea side, to invigorate my constitution, preparatory to entering on my studies, I was duly installed at Oxford. Oh what a jolly time that was with me. I soon became accustomed to the formalities to be observed at the place, and also with the choice spirits that it contained. As for studying, it was all nonsense. True it was, on particular occasions, I was studious, but these were few and far between. As I could sing a good song, and, moreover, possessed a good tenor voice, and could accompany myself with the guitar, I was, of course, invited to almost all the dinners, breakfasts, and suppers, that were given amongst the gayer portion of the collegians. In return for all these flattering demonstrations of friendship, I endeavoured to make myself as agreeable as I could. Thus, what with boating, and riding and driving about, music, and convivial parties, time passed on pleasantly enough. I was always welcomed by...