"Yes, sir."
Jacobs did take himself off, and hastened on deck to inform Mr. Lowington of the conduct of the infatuated officer.
The principal immediately presented himself. Pelham had fully believed, in his self-willed obstinacy, that he could look Mr. Lowington full in the face, and impudently defy him. He found that he was mistaken. The experience of Shuffles in the hands of the boatswain and carpenter would intrude itself upon him, and he quailed when the principal opened the door and gazed sternly into his face.
"Smoking, Mr. Pelham?"
"Yes, sir," replied the rebel, with an attempt to be cool and impudent, which, however, was a signal failure.
"You will put out that cigar, and throw it away."
"I will; I've smoked enough," answered Pelham.
"Your light is burning, contrary to regulation."
"The ship rolls so, I should break my neck without one," replied Pelham, sourly.
"That is a weak plea for a sailor to make. Mr. Pelham, I confess my surprise to find one who has done so well engaged in acts of disobedience."