"You're smart, Lawry; but you can't raise that steamer with those
casks in seven years."

"I'll have her on the top of the water by to-morrow night," said the
young pilot.

"No, you won't."

"You see! But we must go to work, Ethan."

"That's just my idea," said the engineer.

"Then you don't want me to do the job?" added Ben.

"No, I think not," replied Lawry, rather coldly.

"I think my way is the best."

"Perhaps it is; but I don't know what your way is."

"I'll tell you, Lawry, for I don't like to have you waste your time
and strength doing nothing; besides, we want the steamer as soon as
we can get her, or the season will be over."

"What do you mean by we, Ben?" asked Lawry quietly.

"Why, you and me, of course. I know something about steamers, and
perhaps I should be willing to go captain of your boat, if you ever
get her into working order."