This was no job I could turn over to others; if I was to rule, this black brute must be conquered at the very start, conquered by my own hands, and in the presence of his mates.

Here, in this black forecastle, we must fight it out, breast to breast, as savagely as beasts of the jungle, to the bitter end.

I made the resolve, with teeth clenched, and every muscle throbbing with eagerness.
"Stand back there lads," I said sternly, my eyes searching their faces, and with pistol poised threateningly.

"Give us room.

I'll explain all that has happened presently, but first I am going to lick that black brute within an inch of his life.