“Well, no,” said Uncle Paul dryly; “our ambitions don’t lie in that direction, do they, Rodd?”
“No, uncle, but no man would be such a wretch as to sell you a ship that wasn’t safe.”
“Not unless he got the chanst,” said the skipper, frowning. “I know some on them, and what they have done, and I don’t want to command a craft like that. Been at sea too long.”
“Well, then,” said Uncle Paul, “you must have had great experience, and could judge whether a schooner’s good or not.”
“Dessay I could,” said the skipper, “but I aren’t perfect.”
“But you ought to be a good judge,” said Uncle Paul.
“Mebbe, but I wouldn’t go by my own opinion if it was my trade instead of yourn.”
“But look here,” cried Uncle Paul, “I should like you to see the vessel and act for me.”
“Tchah! Not likely, squire. What do you know about me?”
“Well, not much, certainly,” said Uncle Paul, “and I should want a character with you as to your being a good seaman.”