Mr. Searles, of late over-worked in England, was compelled on
board ship to rest both mind and body. A true Englishman, Mr. Searles,
was very practical. He comprehended fully the importance of his mission
to America, and possessed the tact of getting on in the world. If the
proposed deal with Reuben Harris was a success, he expected as commission
not less than five thousand pounds. Before the "Majestic" left the
Mersey, that his mind might be alert on arrival at New York, he had
measured with tape line the promenade deck of the steamer, and resolved
to make enough laps for a mile, both before and after each meal, a walk
of six miles per day, or a total of forty-eight miles for the voyage.
A sturdy Englishman, taking such vigorous and methodical exercise,
created some comment among the passengers, but it was excused on the
ground that Englishmen believe in much outdoor exercise. Searles came
from a good family, who lived north of London in Lincolnshire. His
father, the Hon. George Searles, had a competency, largely invested in
lands, and three per cent consols. His rule of investment was, security
unquestioned and interest not above three per cent, believing that
neither creditors nor enterprise of any kind, in the long run, could
afford to pay more.
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