"Captain Kendall, I am downright sorry for this," said Terrill, following him into his state-room.
"Don't be at all disturbed about it," answered Paul, cheerfully. "I am glad Mr. Lowington has taken this course. I expect to be able to prove that I could not have written the letter, and I shall be restored as soon as we reach Rotterdam. It is a good deal better to be proved innocent than to be suspected of being guilty. Here is the key of the safe," he added, as he took it from his pocket and handed it to his successor.
"It's lucky for old Hamblin he isn't on board of the Josephine," said Terrill, with an ominous shake of the head. "I think the fellows would throw him overboard before the vessel gets to Rotterdam if he were."
"That isn't the right spirit, Terrill; and as a particular favor to me, I ask that you will not say a word about Mr. Hamblin. I have my own opinion in regard to him; and I suppose every fellow has; but the least said is the soonest mended. I hope you will not let the officers and crew indulge in any demonstrations of disapproval."
"Not let them! I can't help it. I believe if old Hamblin was on board, I would join with the rest of the fellows in making a spread eagle of him on the fore shrouds," answered the commander pro tem.
"Don't think of such a thing. Two wrongs won't make a right," said Paul, anxiously. "You and I have been first-rate friends, Terrill, and for my sake do not encourage or tolerate any demonstrations."
"I will do the best I can, but I feel just like making the biggest row I was ever in since I was born."
"Keep cool; you are going to sea right off, and you will have enough to do to look out for the vessel."
"I shall do as you tell me, if I can; but only because you wish it. I think the fellows ought to give a few hearty groans, so as to be sure no one mistakes their sentiments."
"Don't do it, Terrill," said Paul, as he led the way to the deck, with his bundle in his hand.