But a good many of the boys doubted this. Some of them were well enough acquainted with Tom to be well aware that the simple fact of his having an “idea,” was a sufficient reason why they should keep a close watch on all his movements; and this they resolved to do.
“Look out for Newcombe, now,” whispered Harry Green. “He’s got an idea, and, when he gets that way, he’s dangerous.”
“Fellows,” said the new captain, “I don’t like this business. We came out on this cruise to enjoy ourselves, and what has just happened has caused unkind feelings, and will spoil all our sport.”
To the astonishment of all, Rich, who had been seated on the combings of a hatch, whistling to himself, as if he had no interest in what was going on, suddenly sprang to his feet, exclaiming:
“I take back what I said a few moments ago. I am willing that the majority should rule, and, if you want Harding for captain, I have no fault to find. I’ll take my place as a foremast hand; and you, Newcombe and Miller, I want you to do your work just as you did while I was captain.”
The boys listened to this speech in utter amazement. It was not Rich’s disposition to forget a real or an imagined injury, and they could not understand it. They were, however, very much relieved to learn that he was willing to do his duty in any capacity, and there was such apparent sincerity in what he said, that they could not but believe that he was in earnest.
“Well,” drawled Tom, after thinking the matter over, “I’ll obey orders.”
“So will I,” said Miller.
“That’s sensible,” said Harry. “Now we will get along smoothly, as we did before.”