I know that you are a very clever fellow, and having told you so, don't you pretend to impose upon me, for it won't do." I was very much terrified at this speech, but at the same time I was pleased to hear that he thought me clever, and I determined to do all in my power to keep up such an unexpected reputation.
"Quarter-master," said the first lieutenant, "tell Mr Trotter to come on deck." The quarter-master brought up Mr Trotter, who apologized for being so dirty, as he was breaking casks out of the hold.

He was a short, thick-set man, about thirty years of age, with a nose which had a red club to it, very dirty teeth, and large black whiskers.
"Mr Trotter," said the first lieutenant, "here is a young gentleman who has joined the ship.

Introduce him into the berth, and see his hammock slung.

You must look after him a little." "I really have very little time to look after any of them, sir," replied Mr Trotter; "but I will do what I can.

Follow me, youngster." Accordingly, I descended the ladder after him; then I went down another, and then to my surprise I was desired by him to go down a third, which when I had done, he informed me that I was in the cock-pit.
"Now, youngster," said Mr Trotter, seating himself upon a large chest, "you may do as you please.