“Those shouts are from aloft,” said Hezekiah sternly, “where you and I ought to be.”
“I’ve closed the companion,” said the girl reassuringly.
“Closed the companion!” repeated Hezekiah, as he drew his knife. “He can smash it like cardboard, if the fit takes him. Go in here.”
He opened the door of his state-room.
“Shan’t!” said Miss Rumbolt politely.
“Go in at once!” cried the skipper. “Quick with you.”
“Sha—” began Miss Rumbolt again. Then she caught his eye, and went in like a lamb. “You come too,” she said prettily.
“I’ve got to look after my ship and my men,” said the skipper. “I suppose you thought the ship would steer itself, didn’t you?”
“Mutineers deserve to be eaten,” whimpered Miss Rumbolt piously, somewhat taken aback by the skipper’s demeanour.
Hezekiah looked at her.