“Yes, sir.”
Sanford and Stockwell made a clean breast of it, explaining how they had lost trains and steamers, and thus avoided returning to the ship.
“Then Ole is a rogue as well as the rest of you, it seems.”
“He did what I told him to do, and paid him for doing,” replied Sanford.
“He is a runaway, too,” interposed the boatswain, who proceeded to tell the story of the waif. “The boy has suffered a good deal from the ill-treatment of his step-father.”
“I am sorry for him; but his character does not seem to be up to the average of that of his countrymen. I don’t think we want him on board,” replied Mr. Lowington. “As you say this Olaf has no claim for his services, we will see about him.”
The Rensdyr had by this time arrived at the quay, and it was not believed that Captain Olaf would permit his step-son, whose services seemed to be of so much value to him, to escape without making an effort to reclaim him. After all hands had returned from the shore, he put in an appearance, and seeing Peaks in the waist, directed his steps towards him. The profusion of fine uniforms, the order and discipline that reigned on deck, and the dignified mien of the instructors who were walking back and forth, seemed to produce an impression upon the mind of the rough skipper, for he took off his hat, and appeared to be as timid as though he had come into the presence of the king.
“Good evening, Captain Olaf,” said the boatswain.
“I want the boy Ole,” replied the skipper, bowing, and returning the salutation.
“You must talk with the principal about that.”