If there was a hint of an indicated threat in this remark Murray ignored it.
"Master Martin knows his ship," he answered, "as doth Captain Flint his. You lads are forever pondering why certain men rise to command. There lies the answer, Silver. 'Tis knowledge of how to handle your ship; aye, and to fight her, and to plan at need how not to fight her."
Silver knuckled his forehead, handing back the glass.
"Sure, sir, they all says a good captain is born and never made, and we be main fortunate as has two that can't be beat or took or harried from their ways."
My great-uncle indulged in a pinch of snuff, a mildly cynical smile upon his handsome features.
"I thank you," he acknowledged. "And now I would have the men tumble up their gear from below and make ready the boats. I shall also leave it to you, Silver, to lay the powder-train. How much have you?"
"Three casks, sir."
"Excellent. But allow us ample time to get free."
"Why do you give your orders to Silver and not to Bones?" I inquired curiously after the one-legged man had gone for'ard.
My great-uncle lowered his glass with a benevolent smile.