At this point in the conversation Bill was called off to some other part of the vessel, and the mate coming up discovered, somewhat to his disappointment, that our hero had discharged his task in a manner which did not admit of censure.
XVII.
THE RIVAL CHAMPIONS.
It is customary to divide a ship's crew into two watches, whose duty it is to alternate in keeping a lookout at night. The first night-watch commences at eight o'clock, and continues till midnight. This watch is then relieved by the second, who have had an opportunity of sleeping in the mean time, and who remain on duty till four A. M. They then give place to the first, who are again on duty till eight in the morning. Thus it will be seen that a part of the crew have eight hours' sleep, while the remainder have but four. This inequality, however, is remedied the next evening, when the hours are changed.
Charlie was fortunate in one respect. He was placed on the same watch with Bill Sturdy, who had established himself, in some sort, as the boy's protector, and did not scruple to avow it. When some of the crew began to tease and play rough practical jokes upon Charlie,—a mode of treatment to which boys are frequently subjected on board ship,—Bill Sturdy interfered, and in a sonorous voice exclaimed,—
"Look here, shipmates, don't lay a finger on this boy!"
"And why not?" inquired a burly sailor, with naturally repulsive features.
"Because I say so," retorted Bill Sturdy.
"Who is he, I should like to know, that we are to keep our distance?"