"I seen you wasn't," put in Bob Sanderson, who did not hesitate at times to speak out bluntly. "If it hadn't been for Ralph you would have been drowned."
"I don't doubt it, for I cannot swim."
"How came you to be out in such a blow and all alone?" asked Ralph, as he began to lower the ship's sails.
"It didn't blow so when I started from Chambersburgh, and I fancied I could manage the Magic without half trying. But I have found out my mistake now," and the man gave a sorry little laugh. "Are you the bridge tender?"
"Yes, sir."
"And what is your name?"
"Ralph Nelson."
"Mine is Horace Kelsey. You are rather young for this position, are you not?"
"It was my father's before he died. I am serving the rest of the time for which he was appointed."