"I'll look after that!" interrupted the captain. "You do as I tell you, and leave that mast to me."
"But you said that it didn't need—" persisted the second mate.
"Never you mind what I said!" and the commander's voice was harsh. "I'll look after that. Now you go forward!"
It was more in the nature of a command than is usual between captain and mate. The girls felt this, as well as did the boys. But they said nothing.
"Come along and see how we are progressing," continued Captain Brisco in more genial tones, as Jack Jepson left the cabin.
"Then you are going to be ready in time?" asked Paul.
"Ahead of time," said the commander, boastfully.
"That's good!" exclaimed Russ. "Mr. Pertell is anxious not to be delayed."
"He won't be on my account," Captain Brisco assured the young operator. "A few more details, and we'll be ready for sea. About time, too, for this good weather won't hold any too long down among those West Indian islands."
"Oh, are we going there?" asked Alice. "That will be delightful!"