"Are there any more of you fellows who take a chance with us?
This is my last offer ?" "What's the game ?" asked a sullen voice in English, and a bearded fellow burned black, pushed his way to the front.

I had not noted his presence before, but instantly recognized his character.
"Are you English ?" "No; I used ter be Scotch; now I'm damned if I know what I am.

One flag is as good as another ter me--only I want to know what sorter game I'm playin' in.

Who the hell are yer?
An' whar'd yer cum frum ?" "I am an English seaman," I answered shortly, "and how I came aboard makes no difference.

Right now I am the only navigator on the _Namur_." "What's happened ter Estada ?" "He's dead--knifed last night by one of the buccaneers.