"That depends upon the passengers, and whether they would be satisfied with the ship's mess."
"They would take their own provisions."
"Well, how many are there?"
"Nine,—two of them ladies."
"I have no cabins."
"We will arrange a place for their exclusive use."
"What then?"
"Do you accept?" asked Captain Mangles, who was not embarrassed by this curtness.
"I must see," replied the master of the Macquarie. He took a turn or two, striking the deck with his heavy, hobnailed boots; then, turning to Captain Mangles, said:
"What do you pay?"