Now, Lawry thought it was quite necessary that his crew should be trained a little before any passengers were received on board, and after Mr. Sherwood and his party had gone home, the fires were revived, and a short trip down the lake determined upon. As soon as there was steam enough for the purpose, the pilot, now the captain, rang his bell to back her, and the deck-hands were instructed in getting the fasts on board. Ben Wilford, who was standing on the wharf, cast off the hawsers, and then jumped aboard, himself. The bells jingled for a few moments, and then the Woodville went off on her course.
"This is all very fine," said Ben.
"First-rate," laughed Lawry.
"What am I to do?" demanded Ben, rather gruffly.
"You?" said the pilot.
"Everybody seems to have something to do with her except me."
"What do you want to do?"
"I suppose you think I'm not fit for anything."
"I had an idea that you would stay at home, and run the ferry-boat."
"Did you?" sneered Ben.