"
Peregrine was equally piqued and disconcerted at the receipt of
this letter, which was quite different from what he had expected;
and declared in a resolute tone to the lieutenant, who brought it,
that he might return as soon as he pleased, for he was determined
to consult his own inclination, and remain for some time longer
where he was.
Hatchway endeavoured to persuade him, by all the arguments which
his sagacity and friendship could supply, to show a little more
deference for the old man, who was by this time rendered fretful and
peevish by the gout, which now hindered him from enjoying himself
as usual, who might, in his passion, take some step very much to the
detriment of the young gentleman, whom he had hitherto considered
as his own son. Among other remonstrances, Jack observed that mayhap
Peregrine had got under Emilia's hatches, and did not choose to set
her adrift; and that if that was the case, he himself would take
charge of the vessel, and see her cargo safely delivered; for he
had a respect for the young woman, and his needle pointed towards
matrimony; and as, in all probability, she could not be much the
worse for the wear, he would make shift to scud through life with
her under an easy sail.
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