"Yes, sir."
"When I say 'three,' you will determine to continue in your present state of mind--"
"No, no, Captain; I can't do that!"
"Why, you've been doing nothing else for the last hour, man! But allow me to finish. You are going to determine to remain as you are, or you will determine to conquer your fears. Now, reflect before I begin."
There was a pause.
"Ready!" said the Captain; "hold your teeth together. When I say three, you act--and act for life or death--ONE--TWO--"
If he ever said three, I did not hear it; at the word "two" all my fears were gone.
"Well, my friend, how is it now?" he asked gently, even hesitatingly.
"Captain," said; "I am your grateful servant. I shall do my duty."
"I knew, sir, that your will was only sleeping; you must excuse me for employing a disagreeable device in order to arouse it. If I may make a suggestion, I would now beg, while you are in the vein, that you will encourage henceforth, the companionship of the men."