Now, Beekman was in his rights in appealing to the captain at any time. Woywod cast a glance back at the still, unconscious figure of Wramm and decided that perhaps it would be best for him to temporize. He wanted to strike Beekman down, and if it had not been for Wramm's condition and the mutinous outbreak of the men, he would have done so. He realized instantly what Beekman's popularity meant.
"If Cap'n Fish ain't turned in," he said, surlily, "and is willin' to see you, you can speak to him; if not, you'll have to wait till mornin'."
"I think it's probable that he's still awake, sir," said Beekman. "He'll undoubtedly want to know what the condition of Wramm is."
"I'll tell him."
"No, I'll tell him myself."
"You will," shouted Woywod, raising his fist.
Beekman never moved. The men came crowding around.
"By sea law," said Templin, "he's got a right to see the master of the ship, an' we proposes to see that he gits that right."
"You mutinous dogs," cried Woywod, confronting them.
But they were not overawed, and they did not give back.