“‘What did you find?’ asked the Captain.
“‘A lot of Star People—I dunno who they was,’ answered the Able Seaman.
“‘Well,—what did they say?’
“‘They wanted to know what that singin’ was, this afternoon.’
“‘But what did they say about the star?’
“‘I didn’t ask ’em.’
“‘Didn’t ask them!’
“‘No. I come back to ask what to say about the singin’. You didn’t tell me that.’
“‘Thunder!’ said the Captain. ‘Did you come clear down here to ask me that? You get back, as quick as ever you can, and tell them what I said. Of course you’re to answer a civil question!’
“‘Ay, ay, sir,’ said the Able Seaman without winking; and he climbed up the mast again. And all the captains watched him as before, only their necks ached a little harder.