Select what tribunal you please, sir, and I will demonstrate before it that I and my companions, in spite of appearances, are _no_ seamen.

You are to understand that by this disclaimer I cast no reflection upon even the humblest toiler of the deep.

Nay, while myself inept either to trim the sail or net the finny tribes, I respect those hardy callings--no man more so.

Only I claim that my own profession exempts me from this respectable but un-congenial service; and that in short, sir, by forcibly trepanning me, you have rendered yourself liable to swingeing damages, besides inviting public attention to the fact that you were senselessly intoxicated last night." This harangue, admirably delivered, took Captain Crang between wind and water.

It was in vain he looked to his first officer for help.
Mr.Wapshott, still swaying by the poop rail, lifted and wagged an admonitory forefinger.
"No use y'r asking me," said Mr.Wapshott.