The Alderman will have a lucky
run of it!"
"And the gulls have gone more seaward--a certain sign of pleasant
weather;" returned the other, glancing a quick but keen look over the
horizon in the offing. "I believe our rover, with his light duck, has
taken flight among them!"
"We will then go in pursuit. My ship is bound to sea; and it is time,
Master Tiller, that I know in what berth you are willing to serve the
Queen."
"God bless her Majesty! Anne is a royal lady and she had a Lord High
Admiral for her husband. As for a berth, Sir, one always wishes to be
captain even though he may be compelled to eat his ration in the
lee-scuppers. I suppose the first-lieutenancy is filled, to your Honor's
liking?"
"Sirrah, this is trifling; one of your years and experience need not be
told, that commissions are obtained by service."
"Under favor;--I confess the error. Captain Ludlow, you are a man of
honor, and will not deceive a sailor who puts trust in your word."
"Sailor, or landsman, he is safe who has the gage."
"Then, Sir, I ask it. Suffer me to enter your ship; to look into my future
messmates, and to judge of their characters; to see if the vessel suits my
humor; and then to quit her, if I find it convenient."
"Fellow," said Ludlow, "this impudence almost surpasseth patience!"
"The request is reasonable, as can be shown;" gravely returned the unknown
mariner. "Now, Captain Ludlow of the Coquette would gladly tie himself,
for better for worse, to a fair lady who is lately gone on the water, and
yet there are thousands who might be had with less difficulty.
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