Sir Francis, however, seemed in no hurry, but smiled significantly, and gradually raised the point of his weapon.
"Did you hear the word, Sir Francis? I gave it loud enough, I am sure. I never spoke plainer in my life; did I ever, Jack?"
"Yes, often," said Jack Pringle; "what's the use of your asking such yarns as them? you know you have done so often enough when you wanted grog."
"You d——d rascal, I'll—I'll have your back scored, I will."
"So you will, when you are afloat again, which you never will be—you're paid off, that's certain."
"You lubberly lout, you ain't a seaman; a seaman would never mutiny against his admiral; howsomever, do you hear, Sir Francis, I'll give the matter up, if you don't pay some attention to me."
Henry looked steadily at Varney, expecting every moment to feel his bullet. Mr. Marchdale hastily exclaimed that this was not according to usage.
Sir Francis Varney took no notice, but went on elevating his weapon; when it was perpendicular to the earth he fired in the air.
"I had not anticipated this," said Marchdale, as he walked to Henry. "I thought he was taking a more deadly aim."
"And I," said Henry.