Sanford and Stockwell had been on board several hours, and had had time to make up their minds in regard to their future course. They had considered the advice of the boatswain, and finally concluded to adopt it. Clyde Blacklock was as tame as a parlor poodle. His experience in running away, especially after his three days on board of the Rensdyr, was far from satisfactory.
“I suppose I must go into that cage again,” said he, when he went on board.
“That depends on yourself,” replied Peaks. “If you say that you don’t intend to run away again, we shall not put you in the brig.”
“I think I won’t,” added Clyde.
“You think?”
“Well, I know I won’t. I will try to do the best I can.”
“That’s all we ask,” said Peaks. “You can say all this to the principal.”
Mr. Lowington returned earlier than most of the ship’s company, and Peaks reported to him immediately. The coxswain and his associate were called up first.
“We have come on board, sir,” said Sanford, touching his cap.
“I see you have. You have been gone a long time, and I have been told that you had some difficulty in finding the ship,” added the principal.