The first mate went to Mont, and personally conducted him on deck.
"Now, my lad," said the captain, with a brutal air, "I'm going to let you know what discipline is. Strip!"
Looking around him defiantly, Mont did not move.
"Do you hear me?" thundered the captain. "Strip!"
"Captain Savage," said Mont quietly, "I protest against this treatment. You saved my life and the lives of my companions, for which I thank you. We would leave your ship at once if we could. As it is, we are unwilling passengers."
"You are a part of the crew, and must work out your passage."
"Not at all. We have not signed articles, and you have no power over us so long as we conduct ourselves properly."
"Why did you interfere between me and one of my crew? But I'll waste no words with you," replied the captain. "Tie him to the foremast."
He caught up the rope's end and hit Mont a single blow.
He was about to go on, when the sailors advanced in a body, and formed a line between him and Mont.