“But, sir, shall I not be disciplined for so doing?”
“No, lad. Fighting, it is true, is severely punished on board the ships of the Navy, but boxing is encouraged. We are all fighting men; therefore we should all know how to fight, under proper regulations. You will get fair play; the men will see to that.”
“I think I shall be able to take care of myself,” smiled Dan. “I want to be sure that I shall not get into disgrace, that’s all.”
“No danger. But I do not like to see a boy so young pitted against an experienced man like Kester. It isn’t fair. However, if you are greatly overmatched, the bout will be promptly stopped. You will have shown your grit.”
“Thank you very much. You have relieved my mind.”
Dan made his way back to the forecastle where he found Sam waiting for him.
“Well, how about it?”
“It’s all right. I will meet him if the terms are satisfactory. Will you be my second, Sam?”
“Of course. You do not have to ask that. I’ll go consult Kester’s seconds now.”
Later on Sam rejoined his companion.