Chapter V: A Seasick Sentimentalist

If ever I should come to write my autobiography (as I fondly hope in the fulness of time my recognition as the American Dumas will justify me in doing) it will fall easily into chapters. For, so far, my life has consisted of distinct periods, each inspired by a dramatic conception of myself. Let me then try to forecast its probable divisions.

_Chapter I._--Boyhood. Violently imaginative period.--Devouring
ambition to become pirate chief.--Organised the “Band of
Blood.”--Antipathy to study.--Favourite literature: Jack Harkaway.

_Chapter II._--Youth. Violently athletic period.--Devouring ambition
to become great first baseman.--Organised the Angoras. Continued
antipathy to study.--Favourite literature: The sporting rags.

_Chapter III._--Cubhood. Violently red blood period.--Devouring
ambition to become champion broncho buster.--Went to Wyoming, and
became the most cowboyish cowboy in seven counties.--Favourite
literature: The yellow rags.