the ship, while Ralph twirled his cap and placed his bundle beside him
on the carpet. Some fifteen minutes might have thus passed, then the
boatswain straightened up, thrust some papers the captain had given him
into his hip pocket, and turned to the door.

"Now, youngster," said he, "we'll get sail."

"Stay with Bludson, Ralph," called the captain, waving his hand
gracefully; "he will see you through in fine shape."

"Aye, aye. I warrant I see him through," echoed the boatswain hoarsely
as the two went out.

In Ralph's opinion the captain was much more agreeable and "well
mannered" than his subordinate. In the hall below they encountered a
heavy set, bushy bearded man in navy blue, at sight of whom Bludson
touched his cap. The man looked so sharply at Ralph that the boy
inquired:

"Who is that, Mr. Bludson?"

"That's our first mate, and a rare un he is, too."

"A rare one. What do you mean by that?"

"Oh! You'll find out soon enough. Best not ask too many questions.
Howsever, I'll give ye one bit of advice, as is worth a heap to
landsmen aboard ship, and it shan't cost 'e a cent. That is keep your
eyes peeled and your tongue betwixt your teeth. That's the way to larn
and keep a whole skin."