"Right; say on," replied the joker.
"I suppose you feel some interest in the question of going that journey."
"You are a wizard! Who told you I did?"
"No one; I suppose every fellow wants to go. I do, for one."
"And I, for another; and there will be a great many fellows disappointed."
"The ship's company are to vote for two, you know," added the first purser, feeling his way to the question.
"That's so; if you want to say anything about it, speak right out; you needn't beat about the bush any more."
"I think the other one ought to have been elected, instead of being appointed by the captain."
"Perhaps Captain Cantwell will select you," suggested Scott.
"Of course he will not; and if he did, I could not accept the privilege from him," said De Forrest, stiffly.