"You command the Ben Lomond now, Mr. Somers, I learn from the papers."
"The Firefly is her present name."
"Bah! What an ugly name for a fine steamer like her. The Tallapoosa is much better. Be that as it may, I congratulate you on your promotion and your appointment; and you know how sincere I am!
"I do know; and, therefore, cannot even thank you for your good wishes."
"Don't be savage, Mr. Somers. You can afford to be very good-natured."
"I am."
"You don't seem to be very glad to see me."
"On the contrary, I am. I hope, with your usual candor, that you will tell me what you are going to do next, and give me an opportunity to cut out your vessel. I am up here for that purpose."
Pillgrim bit his lip.
"At present, Mr. Somers, I must be silent; but we shall yet meet and settle up old accounts. Let us not be ill-natured. If we meet as enemies, we will fight it out."