"'It was, sir.'
"'No, it wasn't. I ordered the boat to be on the beach at four; it was five minutes after.'
"He then began to blow round deck, growl, curse, and find fault.
"'Why ain't those skids got ready,' he roared, 'to take in sugar? The lighter will be alongside in the morning.'
"'They are ready, sir.'
"The skids were over the hatchway and blocked up.
"'Well, they ain't right.'
"'Yes, they are right, sir. I know how to rig skids to take in molasses and sugar, and how to stow it afterwards, as well as you, or any other man.'
"'You do—do you?'
"'Yes, sir. I do.'