“No, sir,” said Murray; “but then, sir, you’re a first lieutenant.”
“Yes, sir, and that’s what you will never be so long as you hanker after childish pastimes.”
“I’m very sorry, sir—” began Murray.
“Don’t keep saying you are very sorry; it only makes the matter worse, when I have so much upon my mind. It’s absurd, gentlemen. I wonder at you. Just because you see a few dolphins and albicores swimming below the ship’s counter you must want to begin playing with the grains. There, be off, both of you. What would be the good of the fish if you harpooned them?”
“Make a nice change for the table, sir. The cook said—”
“Hang the cook!” cried the officer angrily. “What are you laughing at?”
“Only smiling, sir.”
“And pray what at? Is there anything peculiar in my face?”
“No, sir,” said Murray merrily. “I was only thinking of the consequences if we two obeyed your orders.”
“Orders! I gave no orders.”