that happened on shore,” answered the second pilot.
“What was that?”
“Excuse me, sir: if you will ask Dory, he can tell the story better than I can,” replied Oscar, glancing at the pilot at the wheel.
This conversation took place at the door of the pilot-house, and Dory could not help hearing all that was said; and if he looked behind him he could see the parties.
“I prefer that you should tell your own story,” added the principal rather sternly. “My business just now is with you and not with Dory.”
“To make a short story of it, sir, I attempted to thrash Dory, and I got thrashed myself,” answered the culprit.
“Served you right!” exclaimed the captain. “Have you settled the matter finally?”
“It seems to have settled itself, sir. I had no doubt I could whip Dory as easily as I could turn my hand. I never met one of these proper fellows before that I could not whip, and without the least difficulty. I am satisfied now that he can whip me every time, and that settles the matter.”
“I should say that you judge yourself and Dory by a very mean and cowardly standard. But if you are satisfied, nobody else need complain this time. Return to your duty, Mr. Chester.”
Oscar went to the wheel, and did not seem to have any delicacy about meeting Dory.