The crew had thought the prizes had not been sold, and were perfectly content to wait.
Had the money been distributed while in port, the best part of it would have disappeared and perhaps some of the best men deserted.
Not willfully, but Jack on shore is as innocent as a baby, and soon loses his money.
Each man was surprised at the amount he had to receive, for even Bob's share was equal to two hundred dollars, while Mr. Scarron received four thousand.
The prize money is distributed according to rank, and as Bob once told a friend:
"The more fighting you do, the less prize money; the less hard work, the more money you get."
But they expected no exception to be made, and each received more than was expected.
Each man counted his share and jingled the coins and examined the bank notes with just as much interest as would a child.
When that little matter was settled, and the men again at their posts of duty, Tempest tapped the captain's shoulder.