It was not until they were seated that Tempest saw the face of the sailor next him, and at once took a fancy to him.
Captain Vernon gave the command in a loud, ringing voice:
"Oars down! Give way!"
The oars fell into the water with splendid precision, and the boat made a spurt forward.
"You will find, Mr. Tempest, that on board the Lively Bee we have such discipline that we move like machines."
All the rowers bent to their work, and the captain cheered them with words of praise.
At times he would pretend to be angry.
"You lazy lubbers, are you asleep? Come, rouse up, or we'll never reach the Lively Bee."
The men did pull with more spirit after every outburst of grumbling or reprimand.
Governor's Island was passed, the little boat was saluted by the captain of the Essex, and Vernon felt proud.