"Silence!" interposed Somers, sternly, as he perceived that this bad example was likely to be followed by others, and he felt that the occasion was too serious and solemn to admit of anything like levity.
"Mr. Somers, you know the consequences!" continued the second lieutenant.
"I do."
"Remember!"
"I know what I am about," answered Somers, understanding to what Pillgrim alluded, though of course it was incomprehensible to others in the boats. "I shall board the steamer."
"Do it at your peril!"
"I shall do it."
"This is mutiny!" stormed Pillgrim, with an oath, as he took a revolver from his belt.
"I will abide the consequences," replied Somers, drawing his pistol.
"For God's sake, Mr. Somers—"