'I am quite satisfied with my accommodation, thank you,' she answered, without looking up.
He youthfully wagged his head in reproach of what his manner seemed to consider no more than an enchanting girlish capriciousness, and adding, 'Well, I entreat you both to make yourselves thoroughly at home,' he disappeared.
Punmeamootty arrived. He entered soundlessly as a spirit, and with the gliding movements that one could imagine of a phantom. I said to Helga:
'Abraham's philosophy shall be mine. My temper shall not prevent me from using our friend's larder. You asked just now what will sicken him. Let us eat and drink him up! Punmeamootty, when is the gale going to burst?'
'It will not be long, sah,' he answered, showing his teeth.
'Put the best supper you can upon the table. Have you nothing better than rum to drink?'
'Dere is wine, sah.'
'Yes, and very poor wine too. Have you no brandy?'
'Yes, sah, de Capt'n hab some choice brandy for sickness.'
'Put a bottle of it on the table, Punmeamootty, and be quick, like a good fellow as you are, to serve the food before this sweet little ship begins to kick up her heels.'