“Easy! I can make trouble for you. Back of me are a dozen faithful fellows who will do anything. It will not pay you to dare me.”
Beere was now furious.
He made a menacing gesture.
“You atrocious rascal!” he gritted. “I’ve a mind to flog you!”
“We’re not aboard ship now!” sneered Dooley. “By the way, I am inclined to believe that you are a dangerous character and ought to be taken care of. Hey, boys!”
He blew a shrill whistle. The result was electrical.
Instantly the two men were surrounded. Dooley made a quick sign, and heavy hands were laid on Beere.
The captain saw in that moment that he was in bad hands.
The rascally Dooley certainly meant him harm. The old captain’s blood was up.
“Avast, ye dirty lubbers!” he roared. “I’ll keelhaul every mother’s son of ye if ye lay hands on me. Mark my words!”