INTRODUCTION. 19 



stands the test, if he is faithful and prompt in 

 the discharge of duty, all who have an interest 

 in the success of voyages will want his services. 

 This book gives valuable information to par- 

 ents whose sons are inclined to go to sea. Re- 

 sistance should not be carried to such a degree 

 as to drive the young man to expedients in order 

 to get away from home clandestinely. This 

 course always throws him into the hands, and 

 places him under the power, of those who have 

 no ultimate object but to make all possible profit 

 out of his toil. Many young men, in conse- 

 quence of obstacles thrown in their way, never 

 divulge at home their longing desire to try the 

 sea. Hence, some, who are physically unfit to 

 bear the fatigue, have taken their first step by 

 running off to some seaport; and after being 

 involved in expense, although they may have 

 changed their mind, they cannot retrace their 

 steps. Once shipped, they will have one life-long 

 regret. Let parents do all they possibly can to 

 render their would-be sailor sons independent of 

 the " landsharks." 



Clergymen and Sabbath school teachers are 

 in a position to know something of the tenden- 

 cies and aptitudes of their respective charges. 

 They may, by availing themselves of the con- 

 tents of this volume, prevent many mistakes and 



