Went to sea when eleven years old. He used, himself, to tell as an
instance of his simplicity at this time, "that as he was sitting crying
for his separation from home, the first lieutenant observed him; and
pitying the tender years of the poor child, spoke to him in terms of
such encouragement and kindness, which, as Lord C. said, so won upon his
heart, that taking this officer to his box, he offered him in gratitude
a large piece of plum cake, which his mother had given him."
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