There was one on board.

Would he go to New Switzerland?
Jack determined to try, and accordingly he walked straight off to the personage in question.
"Doctor," said he, "would you do myself and my brother a great favor ?" "Certainly; and, if it is in my power, you may consider it done." "Well, will you embark with us for New Switzerland ?" "For what purpose, my friend ?" "My mother is laboring under a malady, which there is every reason to fear is cancer." "And suppose a fever was to break out in this ship whilst I am absent, what do you imagine is to become of the officers and crew ?" "There are no symptoms of disease on board; but my mother is dying." "You forget, young man, that disease may make its appearance at any moment.

There are many sons on board whose lives are as dear to their mothers as your mother's is to you, and for every one of these lives I am officially accountable." Jack hung down his head and was silent.
"No, my good friend, it is impossible for me to grant such a request; but, from what I know of your history, and the means at your command, you may be able to obtain the services of a competent medical man.

I would, therefore, recommend you to abandon your boat, and proceed with us to our destination." After a lengthy consultation, the two brothers and Willis determined to adopt this course.

The cargo of the pinnace was accordingly transferred to the hold of the _Hoboken_.