"Stay where you are," said the caterer, addressing the waiter, "and don't start until I tell you to." Then, turning to the mate, he continued, "You have no right to order him to do any thing in this mess-room without first consulting me."
"I haven't, eh? I wonder if this darkey ranks me? My appointment reads that I 'am to be obeyed by all persons under me in this squadron.'"
"That boy is not subject to your orders, as long as I am in the mess-room."
"Well, I shall take pains to inform myself on that point. I'll ask the captain."
"Do so," said the caterer, quietly; "and if you don't get the worst raking-down that you have had since you have been on board this vessel, then I am greatly mistaken."
The mate made no reply, but, after he had finished his supper, went on deck.
"Now, Frank," whispered Keys, "just come with me, and I will show you some fun."
Frank, always ready for any mischief, followed his companion on deck, where they found Mr. French in animated conversation with his two friends.
"See here, French," said Keys, approaching the latter in a confidential manner, "are you going to put up with such abuse as you received from that caterer?"