The principal tasted the potatoes, and pronounced them excellent. The second cook was busy at the table preparing the vegetables. As both of them appeared to know what they were about, the captain asked no questions, and allowed the cooks and stewards to proceed with the dinner in their own way.
A visit to the engine-room revealed the fact that
Corny Minkfield, the first assistant-engineer, was in charge there, the chief-engineer being engaged in instructing the firemen in their duties. But Corny had been on steamers a great deal, and had some ideas in regard to machinery. He sat upon the sofa abaft the engine, and looked as dignified as though he had served in this department a dozen years.
In the fire-room Mr. Jepson was doing his duty faithfully. The firemen asked a great many questions, all of which were carefully answered. The second engineer was one of the party, for it was necessary that the engineers should fully understand the duties of the firemen. There was nothing for the principal to do, and he returned to the deck.
Dory was directed to take the wheel. When he went to the pilot-house, he found that Oscar Chester was steering the steamer. He was doing very well for a beginner, and the first pilot did not interfere.
CHAPTER XVIII.
ANOTHER BATTLE AT PLATTSBURGH.
Dory, without saying a word to Oscar, relieved Bates, and took his place at the starboard window in front. Captain Gildrock was pacing the hurricane deck, and the first pilot did not fear an attack from the rebel. But Oscar looked ugly, and bestowed savage glances upon his associate in the pilot-house.
“We shall get to Plattsburgh just at dinner-time,” said Captain Gildrock, stopping at the door of the pilot-house.