"Who has sailed in company with her weather-beaten consort for some twenty years," said Toney.
"And is as good a seaman as himself," said Tom.
"Do not be tossing the queen's English on the horns of an Irish bull," said the Professor. "Yet what you say is measurably true; for when the venerable Timothy is more than ordinarily sad and susceptible of melancholy impressions, he is often heard to bitterly complain of his hard lot in being compelled to serve under a 'she boss,' who, he alleges, is the better man of the two."
"I have no doubt," said Tom, "of the ability of this ancient lady to carry the ship safely through the dangers of the most difficult navigation."
"But," said Toney, "I hardly suppose that she would be able to steer through the intricate mazes of a fashionable hop without the imminent danger of running aground."
"Yet," said the Professor, "her presence on board relieves us from a perplexing dilemma."
"How so?" asked Toney.
"There can be no doubt," said the Professor, "that in sundry sea-chests she has stowed away an incalculable quantity of female attire. Now, if I can but obtain the run of her wardrobe, the preparations for the ball will be made without difficulty."
"Let us call a meeting in the cabin," said Toney.
"A most excellent suggestion!" said the Professor. "Let the meeting be immediately convened."