"Then he hasn't had long to wait."
With these words he hastened to the cabin, where he found the captain waiting for him.
The subject on which the captain wished to see his first mate was purely of a professional and technical character, and will not be likely to interest the reader, and so will be passed over.
When this preliminary matter was disposed of, Randall, with a little hesitation, remarked: "I have a little favor to ask of you, Captain Brace."
"Very well, sir; let me know what it is, and if I can conveniently grant it I will."
"The boy who had engaged to go with us has backed out, having heard some ridiculous stories about your severity and——"
The captain's brow grew dark with anger as he said:
"The young rascal! I should like to overhaul him! I'd show him what it is to see service!"
There is very little doubt that the captain would have kept his word.