And such was the case. On the morning that the _Bellona_ loosed her top-sail, as a sign that she was about to trip her anchor, George felt utterly forlorn. He wondered how he should get through the time until he could go to Ferry Farm and, securing his mother’s consent, join the ship before she sailed from the Chesapeake. So eager was he that Laurence, in the goodness of his heart, had ordered, at his own expense, George’s uniforms to be made in Alexandria, and he was given his side-arms from the stores on board the _Bellona_. George in fancy already saw himself Midshipman Washington. Admiral Vernon, on parting, had said some kind words to him which sank deep in his heart. “I shall look forward with pleasure to your joining, Mr. Washington,” he said. “It is just such youngsters as you that we want in the navy.” George thanked him with shining eyes.