“Couldn’t help it, your honour.”
“There, you see, uncle.”
“I don’t, sir. Going to let the grin of that confounded fellow upset you? If he laughs at you again because he thinks you are a fool, show him that you’re not one; knock him down.”
“His honour the captain’s compliments, Sir Thomas, and he’d be glad to see you on board along o’ Master Sydney here.”
“Is your master on board, then?”
“Ay, sir; and I’ve come across in the gig, as is waiting for us with one of the young gentlemen to keep the men in their places.”
“Right; we’ll come,” said the old admiral. “Now, Syd,” he whispered, “do you know why people laugh?”
“Yes, uncle, at me.”
“Well, yes, my lad; so they did at me years ago. But you don’t know why.”
“I think I do, uncle.”