"Can't you take my word ?" "When you get as old as I am, and have been through as much trouble, you'll never take anybody's word for anything," was the answer.

"I must be sure.

I'm off for a long voyage, and I don't want to make a mistake." "You're not making any mistake if you want to be aboard the _Eagle_.

Here comes Captain Spark now.

You can ask him." At that moment the commander, having seen his vessel well under way, came to where Bob and the nervous passenger were standing.
"Is this Mr.Hiram Tarbill ?" asked the mariner, holding out his hand.
"Yes, sir.