“You consent,” said the Cuban, more eagerly than he intended.
“Yes,” said Mr Parkley. “You shall be allowed to walk off the ship instead of being kicked off. Captain Studwick, see that man off this deck.”
A look that was almost demoniacal overspread the Cuban’s face, and shaking his fist menacingly, he stepped on to the wharf and disappeared through the crowd.
“Now, then,” said Mr Parkley, triumphantly, “we are ready. Captain Studwick, westward ho! Hallo, what now? What is it, Rasp?” as that individual came panting up.
“Are you sure as you’ve got all your company aboard?” said Rasp.
“Yes, I think so. Eh, captain?”
“My crew is all right, certainly,” said the captain. “I don’t know anything about yours.”
“To be sure, I did not think to look after them as they had promised to be aboard in good time. Where are John Tolly and James Morrison?”
“What, them?” said Oakum. “Oh, they came aboard at nine this morning.”
“Yes,” said one of the sailors, “but they went ashore again about ten; I saw ’em go.”