"My lads," began the captain, and Hardy watched him with strained attention, believing that the crew would see it, "this is my birthday, and I am departing from the custom of the sea in making a general holiday of it."
He grew pale and paler as he spoke, but his voice did not falter, and no change was visible in his expression save that a light as of secret exultation brightened his eye and accentuated his pallor.
"I have always tried to make a good master to my men, and to treat them like men and sailors, and not as dogs which other captains seem to find them."
This was attended by a growl of appreciation.
"So, my lads," continued the captain, "as this is my birthday, one and all of you, the mates, and the lady last, but not least, shall drink my health, and the health of the little boy who has left his drum behind him."
"May God bless you and him!" said one of the men, for this proved to be one of those touches of nature which made all those rough hearts akin.
"Now serve out—serve out, and handsomely!"
The boatswain drank first. And again and again and again the measure was filled until all hands of the sailors, saving the man at the wheel, had swallowed the fiery draught, many with a smack and a smile of relish. Then the wheel was relieved, and another bumper was swallowed with a "Many 'appy returns of the day, sir."
"Drink," said the captain to the attendant, and the man drained a full dose.