“I consider myself censured by your decision; and I desire to resign my position as an instructor in this institution,” added Mr. Primback, with all the dignity he could assume.
“I have nothing to do with your resignation: that should go to the principal,” replied Mr. Fluxion, who hoped to see a more reasonable person in his place, and one who knew a brace from a bobstay.
The professor disappeared in his state-room, and related his grievances to Dr. Crumples, who had no sympathy at all with him.
The more interesting question to be settled was the destination of the Ville d’Angers. The vice-principals talked it over for some time, without coming to a conclusion, and then decided to visit the steamer to confer with Mr. Frisbone. The Prince gave them a hearty greeting; but he had no opinion in regard to the disposal of the vessel. There was no law, so far as they were aware, that required the vessel to be taken to one port rather than another; and it was finally decided that the voyage to Madeira should be continued, the steamer accompanying the two schooners.
But Mr. Fluxion was not satisfied with the present arrangement in regard to the ship’s company of the Ville d’Angers, since it was composed of one-half of the Tritonia’s people, while the Josephine remained fully manned. He thought the burden of taking the steamer into port should be more equally divided between the two vessels. Mr. Pelham doubted whether it was expedient to mix the two crews; but his senior overruled his objection, and a new list was made out for the ship’s company of the extra vessel. The names were shown to O’Hara by the vice-principals.
“I suppose you don’t object,” said Mr. Fluxion, with a rather sarcastic smile; for he was not much inclined to consult the wishes of the young gentlemen when he detailed them for duty outside of their own craft. “You will have more officers, and a larger crew for the steamer.”
“Upon me sowl, I do object!” exclaimed O’Hara, with no little excitement in his manner, after he had looked at the list of officers.
“Well, what’s the matter now?” demanded the senior vice-principal, with something like a frown on his bronzed face.
“I like the ship’s company we have now a great dale better,” replied O’Hara decidedly.
“It would be quite as respectful if you should pronounce the English language properly when you address your superior officers,” added Mr. Fluxion, who was by far the severest disciplinarian in the squadron.