Skinner flushed pleasurably and thanked his employer.
"Some twenty-five years ago," Cappy continued, "you entered my employ
as a spindle-legged office boy. To-day you are my general manager,
and a rattling good one, too, even if we do have our little run-in
together every so often. We mustn't pay any attention to that,
however, for a fight is good for a man, Skinner. I maintain that it
brings out all of his virtues and vices where one can have an
unobstructed view of them. However, passing that, I decided a long
time ago, Skinner, that you are entitled to more than a mere salary--"
"My salary has been eminently satisfactory, sir--" Mr. Skinner began.
"Don't be an ass, Skinner," Cappy interrupted tartly. "I wouldn't
give two hoots in hell for a satisfied man, unless he's his own
man--understand. You should have a more vital interest in the Ricks
Lumber and Logging Company and the Blue Star Navigation Company. We
always make our skippers own a piece of the vessels they command, so
they will not be tempted to rob us, for in robbing us they rob
themselves. Consequently, thinking it over, Skinner, I have decided
to make you own a piece of both the companies you manage, not because
you may rob them but because I want to reward you for faithful
service.
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