"We shall be there to vindicate our rights, and protest against this conspiracy. How do you stand, Laybold?"
"I don't care much about it, any way," replied the messenger, glancing at Cantwell.
"Then go against the change. This thing is got up to keep me from being captain next month."
"You!" shouted Laybold. "You won't even be captain of a top! You won't come within fifty of the cabin."
"So you say. But the highest office lies between Cantwell and me."
"That may be; but it's a long way from your side of the house," replied Laybold, as the party moved towards the highest part of the island.
Cantwell was vexed and troubled, and he could not decide what course to pursue.
CHAPTER II.
AN EXCITED MEETING OF OFFICERS AND SEAMEN.