"We'll do that," agreed Ben, and walked aft to solicit shore leave of the mate.
"Go ashore?" growled that individual. "No, you can't. Not by a long shot."
"This afternoon, p'r'aps?" suggested Ben with appropriate humility.
"No, nor then."
"Well, to-morrer?"
"No, nor to-morrer, nor the next day. See?"
"No, I don't see," said Ben. "Who give them orders, if I might ask?"
"The capting, that's who. If you wants to go ashore you can whistle yourself there. My orders is to keep you on board and in sight till we sails again."
Ben, considerably discomfited by this information, rejoined Dare and told him what had taken place.
"We might have expected it!" said Dare. "He's not taking any chances."