The mate stood by, his face and manner serious and thoughtful.
"Mr. Holdfast," said Mr. Stubbs, "do you agree with the captain that
it is our best course to take to the boats?"
"I should prefer to try the ship a little longer. I say so with
diffidence, since the captain has a longer experience than I."
"I don't think much of your judgment, Mr. Holdfast," said Captain
Hill, in a tone of contempt.
The mate's face flushed--not so much at the words as the tone.
"Nevertheless Captain Hill," he said, "I stand by what I have said."
"Mr. Holdfast," said Mr. Stubbs, who seemed to speak for the
passengers, "if some of us decide to remain on the ship, will you
remain with us?"
"I will!" answered the mate, promptly.
"Then set me down as the first to remain," said Stubbs.
Somehow this man, rough and abrupt as he was, had impressed Harry as a
man in whom confidence might be reposed. He felt safe in following
where he led.
"I am but a boy," he said, "but I have to decide for my life. I shall
remain with the mate and Mr. Stubbs."
Quietly Stubbs shook hands with Harry.
"I am glad to have you with us," he said earnestly. "We will die or
live together."
Next came Professor Hemenway.
"Put me down as the third," he said.
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