"Yes, yes, I know that, Mr. Gascoigne; but, still, I've no quarrel with Mr. Biggs, and therefore Mr. Biggs, of course, will not aim at me."
"Why, you don't think that I'm going to be fired at for nothing?" replied the boatswain. "No, no, I'll have my shot anyhow."
"But at your friend, Mr. Biggs?"
"All the same I shall fire at somebody; shot for shot, and hit the luckiest."
"Vel, gentlemen, I purtest against these proceedings," replied Mr. Easthupp. "I came here to have satisfaction from Mr. Easy, and not to be fired at by Mr. Biggs."
"Don't you have satisfaction when you fire at Mr. Easy?" replied the gunner. "What more would you have?"
"I purtest against Mr. Biggs firing at me."
"So you would have a shot without receiving one!" cried Gascoigne. "The fact is that this fellow's a confounded coward, and ought to be kicked into the cooperage again."
At this affront Mr. Easthupp rallied, and accepted the pistol offered by the gunner.
"You 'ear those words, Mr. Biggs? Pretty language to use to a gentleman! You shall 'ear from me, sir, as soon as the ship is paid off. I purtest no longer, Mr. Tallboys. Death before dishonour! I'm a gentleman, damme!"