Among the seamen was a young fellow of nineteen, from Castine, Maine. He was known to Abner Titcomb, who, while on a visit to that town, had become acquainted with James Low and his family.
As Titcomb had not seen Low since he was a boy of fifteen, he did not immediately recognize him till James called him by name. The boy seemed very much pleased to find on board one with whom he had had a previous acquaintance.
Titcomb was speaking to the young sailor one day when Captain Richmond came up.
“Mr. Titcomb,” he said, “what can you have to say to one of my crew?”
The tone was insolent, and Abner Titcomb resented it.
“It happens, Captain Richmond,” he replied, “that this young fellow and I are old acquaintances. I know him and his family.”
“That may be, sir,” returned the captain, with an incredulous sneer.
“What do you mean by that, Captain Richmond? Do you mean to doubt my word?”
“I would have you understand, Mr. Titcomb, that I am the captain of this ship, and I will not tolerate insolence from you or any other man!”
“There has been no insolence except on your part. I am a passenger on this vessel, and I claim to be treated with civility.”