CHAPTER XV
THE LAST OF THE “NANTUCKET”
Though the mate had removed some of the stores, much the larger portion was left on board, for the Nantucket had been provisioned for a long voyage. Yet Captain Hill saw fit to complain.
“It is fortunate that you didn’t take all the stores, Mr. Holdfast,” he remarked, in a sarcastic tone.
The mate eyed the captain steadily.
“May I ask your meaning, Captain Hill?” he asked.
“I mean what I say, sir. I think my language requires no interpreter.”
“Then I can only reply that it would have made no difference if I had removed all the provisions.”
“You appear to forget that I am your superior officer,” said the captain in a heat.