Bartlett—[Slowly.] Is this the way ye mind my orders, boy? I’ve told ye time an’ again not to be sneakin’ and spyin’ around this wharf.
Nat—I’m not sneaking and spying. I wanted to talk to you, Pa.
Bartlett—[Sits down by the table.] Well, here I be.
Nat—Sue said the schooner sails tomorrow.
Bartlett—Aye!
Nat—[Resolutely.] I want to go with you, Pa.
Bartlett—[Briefly—as if dismissing the matter.] Ye can’t. I’ve told ye that before. Let this be the last time ye ask it.
Nat—But why? Why can’t I go?
Bartlett—Ye’ve your own work to do—good work. Attend to that and leave me to mine.
Nat—But you always wanted me to go on voyages to learn whaling with you.