THE carpenter of the Tritonia climbed up the rope, and reached the deck of the steamer. The moment he saw Mr. Frisbone, he recognized him, and saluted him with nautical politeness.
“Mr. Rimmer, the carpenter of the Tritonia,” said O’Hara, by way of introduction.
“I am glad to see an American seaman on board of this steamer,” replied Mr. Frisbone heartily. “You are the carpenter of the Tritonia, and you can soon tell whether this vessel is worth saving.”
“She don’t seem to be in very bad condition with the exception of that hole in her starboard bow,” added Mr. Rimmer, as he cast his eyes about him.
“I wish you would look her over; and then we can decide what is best to be done.”
The carpenter began his survey of the vessel, accompanied by Mr. Frisbone and O’Hara. They visited every part of her, examining very carefully into her condition.
“I suppose I know as much about the engine as anybody; and I can say that it is in good order,” said Mr. Frisbone, as they passed the door of the engine-room.
“I don’t know any thing about engines,” added the carpenter modestly. “But I can say that the vessel is in first-rate condition; and that hole in her bow can be stopped so that she will live in any sea. The opening is above the water-line, so that there will be no great pressure upon it.”
“Then we can save the vessel,” replied the American Prince, as he claimed to be, and as he had named his steam-yacht. “That will be a feather in the caps of you boys.”
“I should like to take a hand in the game,” said O’Hara, his face lighting up at the prospect.