This was certainly very kind and condescending on the part of the elder brother, after what had occurred; and Lawry really felt happy in the excellent spirit which Ben appeared to manifest.
"You might give me a chance as mate, if you like," added Ben, as he perceived the smile on his brother's face.
"I will speak to Mr. Sherwood about it."
"What do you want to speak to him for? Don't you own this boat?"
"I do; but he has been very kind to me, and I want to take his advice when I can. I wish you hadn't got into that scrape the other day."
"What scrape?"
"Why, causing the boat to be attached for father's debts."
"I didn't mean anything by it, Lawry," answered Ben, in apologetic tones. "You must acknowledge that you provoked me to it."
"How, Ben?"
"I can't get it out of my head that I ought to be captain of this boat. I think it would be a good deal better for you, Lawry. Just look at it one minute! You are a pilot, and you have to leave the wheel to see to everything on board. You ought to have nothing to do but to navigate the steamer; while I, as captain, could take the money, see to the dinners, and keep the deck and cabins in good order."