Mark Strong felt his heart at rest, for, as he saw the effect of his father’s words upon the chief mate, he knew once and for all who was the real captain of the ship.
Chapter Six.
How Mark Strong made Friends.
“Of course we shall not be able to sail at the time down,” said the first-mate rather huffily.
“Of course we shall, Gregory,” said the captain quietly. “Morgan, I’m sorry you’ve had such a job as this. Divide the men into two watches. I’ll take the first with some extra hands. Gregory and I will get on as far as we can till you and your watch are roused up. You’ll go at it fresher. Pick out the most tired men for turning-in.”
“They’re all tired alike,” said the first-mate gruffly. The captain did not answer, but went aft with his son.
“Rather a queer experience for you, Mark,” he said as they entered the cabin, to find that Mrs Strong was there, waiting eagerly to know what was wrong on board.
Her anxieties were soon set at rest, and after a little examination of the place, the steward pointing out which were the cabins of the passengers expected to come on board the next day, Mrs Strong settled herself calmly down beneath the lamp and took out her work.