“Are you aware, Edward—Mr Templemore, I mean—of the impropriety of disrespect to your superior officer?”
“I never laughed at Mr Markitall but once, sir, that I can recollect, and that was when he tumbled over the messenger.”
“And why did you laugh at him then, sir?”
“I always do laugh when any one tumbles down,” replied the lad; “I can’t help it, sir.”
“Then, sir, I suppose you would laugh if you saw me rolling in the lee-scuppers?” said the captain.
“Oh!” replied the boy, no longer able to contain himself, “I’m sure I should burst myself with laughing—I think I see you now, sir.”
“Do you, indeed! I’m very glad that you do not; though I’m afraid, young gentleman, you stand convicted by your own confession.”
“Yes, sir, for laughing, if that is any crime; but it’s not in the Articles of War.”
“No, sir; but disrespect is. You laugh when you go to the mast-head.”
“But I obey the order, sir, immediately—Do I not, Mr Markitall?”