Page:Neuroomia.djvu/309

Rh We decided on an early one, and parted.

"You have no idea how I long to join that expedition, and see other lands and seas," said Alvarez.

"I presume there are many more young ladies who would enjoy that privilege," I answered.

"Yes," she responded; "and we have just interviewed the President about the matter. He will not give his consent to any ladies leaving on this occasion," she continued. "Nor will he bind himself in the future; but he promised that if the vessel should return in safety, and another expedition organized, the question of taking young ladies and their friends or relatives would be considered."

"It would be very agreeable," I said, "if everything went smoothly; but on the other hand, it is not at all improbable that you would be compelled to become inured to dangers and discomforts, in which case the voyage might prove the reverse of what you anticipate."

"I have not promised myself a life of ease on board," she answered emphatically. "On the contrary, I have made up my mind to encounter stormy weather and many trials; and cannot we women endure hardships as well as the stronger sex? Our work might not be quite so serviceable,