In a word, we cannot spare him--either to let him go or to hang him; even were the latter just." "I'm sure, sir, I desire to do nothing that is unjust or inconvenient, and so act your pleasure in the affair." "My pleasure is just this then, Winchester.

We must turn Bolt to duty.
If the fellow is really an American, it would be a wretched business even to flog him for desertion; and as to treason, you know, there can be none without allegiance.

Nelson gives me a discretion, and so we'll act on the safe side, and just turn him over to duty again.

When there comes an opportunity, I'll inquire into the facts of his case, and if he can make out that he is not an Englishman, why, he must be discharged.
The ship will be going home in a year or two, when everything can be settled fairly and deliberately.

I dare say Bolt will not object to the terms." "Perhaps not, sir.