"He had some private reason; there ain't a question about that. It wasn't because we were in want of a boy. We might have picked up plenty that would have been glad to come."
"I'm afraid you'll get into trouble with him for taking my part," said Charlie, with some anxiety.
"Don't trouble yourself about me," said Sturdy, shrugging his shoulders. "I ain't in any way frightened by his black looks, and if he tries to do you any mischief, he'll find you've got one friend."
Before Charlie had an opportunity to reply, Captain Brace came on deck, and looked around him with a glance that showed a storm was brewing.
XXVII.
THE LASH.
"Pipe all hands to see punishment inflicted," ordered Captain Brace.
Charlie and Bill Sturdy looked at each other, uncertain where the blow was to fall.
"It must be Antonio," thought our hero.