"Mr. Dodd," said the captain, "you will be pleased to mind your own concerns. You, Muggins, what time did you come aboard?"
These officers on the half-poop were rather terrifying. Unwashed since yesterday, with grimy hands, an aching heart, and a frantic desire for breakfast, Bill felt at a disadvantage. This captain also, bully and cur complete, had unlimited power to do him wrong. The lad's bulldog face turned rigid, his eyes were menacing, his fists clenched, his body strung for defense as he answered the captain.
"You sunk my boat," he said, "so you can put me ashore. As to this yere Villie Muggins, I'll find him out, and give him your love if you like."
"Mr. Dodd," asked the captain, "is this man a seaman?"
"To judge by his conduct, yes, sir."
"My man," said Captain Home, "you're signed on as Willie Muggins, your chest is in the forecastle beside your bunk. If you don't answer to your name, you'll be flogged until you do. Mr. Dodd, put him to work."
"But——"
"Turn to, lad," said Mr. Dodd.
Bill stood for a moment, feeling the man's kindness, the good will, the well-meant advice. He would do anything on earth to please that mate.
"Aye! aye!" said he quite cheerfully, and turned to.