As soon as I had left the owner, I went down to the wharf, stepped into the boat, and went on board Captain Levee’s vessel, which, I have omitted to state, was named the Arrow. I found him on board, and very busy getting ready for sea.
“So you are off to-morrow, Levee?” said I, before all the people on the deck.
“Yes,” he replied.
“I wish I was, too; but I am to remain ten days longer, I find.”
“I was in hopes we should have cruised together,” replied Captain Levee; “but we must do as our owner wishes. What detains you?—I thought you were ready.”
“I thought so too,” I replied; “but we find that the head of the mainmast is sprung, and we must have a new one. I have just come from the owner’s, and must set to work at once, and get ready for shifting our mast. So, fare you well, if I do not see you before you sail.”
“I am to see the owner to-night,” replied Levee. “Shall we not meet then, and take a parting glass?”
“I fear not, but I will come if I can,” I replied; “if not, success to the Arrow!”
“And success to the Sparrow-Hawk!” replied Levee, “and God bless you, my good fellow.”
I shook hands with my kind friend, and went over the side of the lugger into my boat, and then pulled for my own vessel. As soon as I got on board, I sent for officers and men, and said to them—