stern were two staterooms; one for the captain and the other for the
two mates. Lockers and drawers were scattered about, and a mirror with
a picture or two was attached to the walls.

On a cushioned seat at one side lay a large white cat.

"That's Doctor," said the mate. "He's a great pet, and while you are
aft you must see that he wants for nothing."

The mate showed Ralph a small closet where were sundry brooms, brushes
and other implements for cleaning up.

"As you are to be cabin boy, for a while at least," said Mr. Duff, "you
might as well begin by tidying up the cabin a bit. We want to have
things shipshape by the time the captain comes aboard."

For an hour or so Ralph busied himself accordingly, until a commotion
on deck led him to look out at one of the stateroom windows.




CHAPTER XII.

The Curlew Puts to Sea.

These windows were mere bullseye affairs, swinging on pivots.

Pushing one open, Ralph saw a four oared boat pulling rapidly for the
schooner. Presently he heard the rattle of oars under the vessel's