"I leave the matter entirely in the hands of my superior officers," replied Somers. "Having cast the responsibility upon them, I am willing to obey orders without asking any questions."
"That is a very proper view to take of the subject, and I commend your moderation," said the captain, with a pleasant smile. "It has been thought best not to disturb Mr. Pillgrim for a day or two, for other events may transpire."
Captain Cascabel bowed to Somers, and intimated that he had no further need of him at present.
"Ah, Mr. Somers, been visiting the captain," said the second lieutenant, as his victim came on deck.
"I was sent for."
"What was the business?"
Fortunately, Mr. Transit, who was planking the deck on the lee side, approached near enough to enable Somers to avoid answering the question, and he thus escaped the necessity of telling a falsehood. But as soon as Mr. Garboard took the deck, Pillgrim repeated the inquiry, and the young officer was obliged to narrate an imaginary conversation.
"It's no matter, Somers. You understand that I have a rope round your neck, and I am not at all afraid that you will make an improper use of your tongue."
"I certainly shall not," answered Somers, with emphasis. "You may depend upon me for that."
"The fact is, Somers, I have got a mortgage on you; and I want no better security for your good conduct."