Here you may sit all weathers, without being
turned out to take your watch, and no fear of the ship's dragging
her anchor. You han't much room to spare, 'tis true: an' I had known
as how you stowed so close, Tom should have slung my own hammock
for you, and then you mought have knocked down this great lubberly
hurricane house. But, mayhap, you turn in double, and so you don't
choose to trust yourself and your doxy to a clue and canvas."
Pickle bore his jokes with great good-humour, rallied him in his
turn about the dairy-maid at the garrison; inquiring about his
friends in the country, asked if he had been to visit his niece,
and, finally, expressed a desire of knowing the cause of his
journey to London. The lieutenant satisfied his curiosity in all
these particulars; and, in answer to the last question, observed
that, from the information of Pipes, understanding he was land-locked,
he had come from the country in order to tow him into the offing.
"I know not how the wind sets," said he, "but if so be as three
thousand pounds will bring you clear of the cape, say the word,
and you shan't lie wind-bound another glass for want of the money.
Pages:
1422
1423
1424
1425
1426
1427
1428
1429
1430
1431
1432
1433
1434
1435
1436
1437
1438
1439
1440
1441
1442
1443
1444
1445
1446