“They’s a scattered pan of ice out there, father,” said Donald, “and three small bergs.”
“Yes, b’y, I knows,” said North. “’Tis that I’m afeared of. If the wind changes a bit more, ’twill jam the ice agin the rocks. Does you think the net is safe?” 55
Jimmie Grimm glanced at Billy Topsail; and Billy Topsail glanced at Jimmie Grimm.
“Wh-wh-what, sir?” Donald stammered.
It was quite evident that the net was in danger, but since Donald had first shown sign of fearing the sea, Job North had not compelled him to go out upon perilous undertakings. He had fallen into the habit of leaving the boy to choose his own course, believing that in time he would master himself.
“I says,” he repeated, quietly, “does you think that net’s in danger?”
Billy Topsail nudged Jimmie Grimm. They walked off together. It would never do to witness a display of Donald’s cowardice.
“He’ll not go,” Jimmie Grimm declared.
“’Tis not so sure,” said Billy.
“I tell you,” Jimmie repeated, confidently, “that he’ll never go out t’ save that net.” “But!” he added; “he’ll have no heart for the leap.”