“I do not wish to do that,” said Dutch. “I wish to help you.”
“Well, then,” cried Mr Parkley, sharply, “I shall take old Rasp. He’ll go to oblige me, old as he is; and if it is necessary I will go down myself. I’ve not been down for years now, but sooner than that scoundrel shall crow over me I’ll do all the diving myself.”
“There will be no necessity,” said Dutch, quickly.
“What do you mean?” exclaimed Mr Parkley.
“I will go with you myself,” said Dutch.
“What!” cried Mr Parkley, joyfully. “You? You go with me? My dear Pugh, I shall never forget this.”
He rose and grasped the young man’s hand with both of his own, and his face flushed with pleasure.
“Yes,” said Dutch, quietly, “I will go, and with old Rasp I think we can manage.”
“Manage!” cried Mr Parkley, “why, you are a host in yourself. But look here, my dear boy. Gentlemen, you will excuse us. Come on deck.”
He led the way, and Dutch followed him to the side of the schooner, where he took him by the button.