side, and an order or two issued by the second mate.

He hastened up the companionway just in time to see Mr. Duff saluting
Captain Gary and Mr. Rucker as they came over the side, passing between
several seamen drawn up on either side of the gangway. The first mate
cast an eye aloft and to seaward, while the captain walked so quickly
down the companionway that he nearly overturned Ralph.

"What do you mean?" exclaimed Gary, flinging the lad roughly aside.
"Have you no manners?"

He disappeared in the cabin whither Ralph followed dumbfounded at this
unlooked for exhibition of temper on the part of his hitherto placid
superior.

The captain was flinging down some papers on the table. Looking up he
recognized Ralph for the first time.

"That you, Ralph?" he said, banishing a scowl in a smile that had no
mirth in it. "Was it you outside?"

"Yes, sir."

"I did not know it was you. But we learn to look sharp and be spry on
shipboard. Did Bludson treat you well? Ah--that's good. Had a
pleasant time? I always want my men to enjoy themselves. I see you
have tidied up things here. You must keep this cabin clean, and also
these staterooms. You will also wait on the cabin table and take your
meals here."