"As they say ashore, a stitch in time saves nine." "But drilling holes in her is not the way," said Hazel sternly.
The mate laughed.

"Why, sir," said he, "what other way is there?
We cannot stop an irregular crack; we can frame nothing to fit it.

The way is to get ready a plug measured a trifle larger than the aperture you are going to make; then drill a round hole and force in the plug.

I know no other way than that; and I was a ship's carpenter for ten years before I was a mate." This explanation, and the manner in which it was given, removed Mr.
Hazel's apprehensions for the time being.

"It was very alarming," said he; "but I suppose you know your business." "Nobody better, sir," said Wylie.