pick himself up; but it took him a minute or so to pull himself
together after the descent.

"Watchman!"

"Sir."

"Captain aboard?"

"Yes, sir."

Pause.

"Dog aboard?"

"Yes, sir."

Pause.

Our dog was a gaunt and unpleasant beast, more like a wolf in poor
health than a dog, and I never noticed Mr. B- at any other time
show the slightest interest in the doings of the animal. But that
question never failed.

"Let's have your arm to steady me along."

I was always prepared for that request. He leaned on me heavily
till near enough the cabin-door to catch hold of the handle. Then
he would let go my arm at once.