"Mac," said the skipper, "we are going to have a decent trip. I am about to provision this ship in a lordly style. Will you stand in, it will be worth it?"
The chief engineer looked dubious.
"I had a very small win," he said. "But I'll lay in some of my special, and you're welcome to a share."
"Where's the crew?" asked Job, as he went on deck.
"Half in and half out. They keep turning up in small quantities; the bosun's just arrived in a hansom," laughed Slack.
"He's a credit to the ship. When the bosun can drive about in a hansom, there's no reason why the skipper should not have a carriage and pair."
"None at all; I'd like to see you in it, you'd fill it well," replied the chief officer with a smile.
"Stow your chaff; I'm going to board Sharp in the office. Mind you, I have forgiven you lubbers for deserting the ship last night, but don't let it occur again, or there'll be a concert on board."
"And very little harmony."
"That is so, Sam; you have a keen intelligence," replied Job.