"That's honest," added old Jack, slapping me on the back. "I'll make an able seaman of you. There, pipe down. Now come with me, and we will overhaul the matter."
I went to the forecastle with Sanderson, and told him my story, so far as it related to my connection with the vessel.
CHAPTER X.
IN WHICH PHIL STANDS HIS WATCH, AND TAKES HIS TRICK AT THE WHEEL.
Jack Sanderson was an old sailor. I had noticed, when I first came on board of the bark, that he was very drunk. But he had a kind heart, and was a person of great natural ability. If he had let liquor alone, he might have been the master of a vessel. He was much interested in my story, and gave me such good advice as the circumstances required. He counselled me to obey the officers in all things, to be respectful, and to perform every duty with care and attention. I had already resolved to do all this, but I was strengthened by the advice of the old salt.
"I'm afraid the captain won't discharge you when we get to Palermo," said Jack.
"Then I shall discharge myself," I replied, decidedly.
"That's easy to say, my hearty, but not always easy to do. You signed the shipping papers."
"The captain told me that was a mere form, and that he would let me go when the bark arrived at Palermo."