"
"Thank you, Mr. Stubbs," said Harry, heartily. "I know the value of
your help already. Mr. Clinton also is willing to stand by me, though
he says he don't want to get into a fight with the captain."
"Clinton! That spindle-legged dude!" said Stubbs, exploding with
laughter. "My! he couldn't scare a fly."
Harry laughed, too. He could not help doing so.
"He seems a good fellow, though not exactly a hero," he said. "I am
glad to have his good will."
"He is more of a tailor's dummy than a man," said Stubbs. "I always
want to laugh when I look at him. Hist! there's the captain."
Harry turned quickly toward the companionway, and saw Captain Hill set
foot on the deck. A glance satisfied him that the captain was sober.
CHAPTER XII
A STORM
Captain Hill must have observed Harry and Mr. Stubbs, but walked by
them without notice, and attended to his duties, giving his orders in
a sharp quick tone. He was an experienced seaman, and thoroughly
fitted for the post of chief, when not under the influence of liquor.
"I am glad to see that the captain is sober," said Stubbs, in a low
voice.
"So am I," answered Harry.
One change, all noticed in Captain Hill. He became silent, reserved,
morose. His orders were given in a quick, peremptory tone, and he
seemed to cherish a grudge against all on board.
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