This threw the captain into a frightful rage; for some of his friends had come down to see him off, and having his orders contradicted so flatly was too much for him.

However, the delay was sufficient.

I took a race and a good leap; the ropes were cast off; the steam-tug gave a puff, and we started.

Suddenly the captain was up to me: 'Where did you come from, you scamp, and what do you want here ?' "'Please, sir,' said I, touching my cap, 'I'm you're new 'prentice come aboard.' "'New 'Prentice,' said he, stamping, 'I've got no new 'prentice.

My boys are all aboard already.