“You have settled that fellow so that he won’t want any more of your love-pats,” replied Peppers, laughing. “I saw the whole of it, and it was handsomely done.”
“I merely defended myself. He pitched into
me, and I could not help myself,” answered the pilot in the language and tone of apology; for he did not want any one to think that he ever engaged in a voluntary fight.
“I know it: I saw the whole of it. You were trying to talk with him when he rushed upon you,” added Peppers.
By this time Oscar Chester appeared to have recovered from the heavy blows of his brother pilot. He and Will Orwell walked up the street towards the town. The excitement was all over, and the other pupils scattered. Peppers followed Chester. Dory was doubtful what to do. At first he thought of going on board of the Sylph, and reporting the battle to his uncle.
After a little consideration, and some talk with Bolingbroke about it, he decided not to do so. He was ready to answer to any charge that might be brought against him, and it would be time enough to defend himself when he was accused. He called at the Witherill House, had a chat with the landlord and the clerk, and then returned to the wharf. By this time most of the boys had seen all they wanted to of the town, and were ready to go on board. Captain Gildrock had
come on shore, and had just gone on board with the two Plattsburgh boys who were to join the school.
Bates was in charge of the boats; and, as soon as the crew of one of them appeared, he sent one load on board. The principal was instructing the two new hands, who had already put on the uniform. One was a steward, and the other belonged to the port watch.
At a little after three o’clock the other boat came off, and the students rushed up the accommodation steps as though they enjoyed the steamer and the lake more than the town. George Duane, the new steward, was handed over to Bob Swanton, after a proper introduction; and they retired to the forward cabin.
“Have all hands come on board?” asked Captain Gildrock.