There are certain
considerations that strike upon the mind with irresistible force,
even in the midst of its distraction; the momentary recollection
of some particular scene, occasioned by the features of the devoted
victim, hath often struck the dagger from the assassin's hand. By
such an impulse was Pipes protected from any repeated effort of
his master's rage; the friendly cause of his present disobedience
flashed upon the conviction of Peregrine, when he beheld the rugged
front of his valet, in which also stood disclosed his long and
faithful service together with the recommendation of the deceased
commodore. Though his wrath was immediately suppressed, and his
heart torn with remorse for what he had done, his brows remained
still contracted, and darting a most ferocious regard at the intruder,
"Villain!" said he, "how dare you treat me with such disrespect?"
"Why shouldn't I lend a hand for the preservation of the ship,"
answered the unruffled Pipes, "when there is more sail than ballast
aboard, and the pilot quits the helm in despair? What signifies
one or two broken voyages, so long as our timbers are strong, and
our vessel in good trim? If she loses upon one tack, mayhap she may
gain upon t'other; and I'll be d--d, if one day or other we don't
fetch up our leeway.
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