It was an awkward moment for McGlory. He felt that it was downright necessary to show his superiority, for it is only by such a show that women like Estelle are kept constant. On the other hand, even he understood the danger of openly defying his captain. But the seconds were flying.
“You go back to your schooner, Dick Smiley. You ain't boss here.”
“Well, by—” Dick checked himself, with a half bow toward Estelle. “I beg your pardon, my dear. Your friend kind o' surprised me.”
McGlory flashed a suspicious glance at her.
“None o' your jaw now, Smiley. You can do your talking when it's time to sail. You 'll have to shut up here.”
“Maybe you 'll be good enough to tell me when you 'll be ready to start,” suggested Dick, with extravagant politeness.
McGlory rumbled an unintelligible reply; and Dick turned again to Estelle. “Will you excuse him, my dear. You see he's got a previous engagement with me. But you couldn't hardly blame him for forgetting, with such a lady friend to talk to.”
“Look here,” McGlory broke out; “you've said enough. You go back to your schooner where you belong!”
“Thanks, I'm going. We're all going. You 'll come with us, my dear?”
Estelle, who was plunged in confusion, said nothing, but fell in with him. And McGlory, fuming, had to follow.