"
"Stay with Bludson, Ralph," called the captain, waving his hand
gracefully; "he will see you through in fine shape."
"Aye, aye. I warrant I see him through," echoed the boatswain hoarsely
as the two went out.
In Ralph's opinion the captain was much more agreeable and "well
mannered" than his subordinate. In the hall below they encountered a
heavy set, bushy bearded man in navy blue, at sight of whom Bludson
touched his cap. The man looked so sharply at Ralph that the boy
inquired:
"Who is that, Mr. Bludson?"
"That's our first mate, and a rare un he is, too."
"A rare one. What do you mean by that?"
"Oh! You'll find out soon enough. Best not ask too many questions.
Howsever, I'll give ye one bit of advice, as is worth a heap to
landsmen aboard ship, and it shan't cost 'e a cent. That is keep your
eyes peeled and your tongue betwixt your teeth. That's the way to larn
and keep a whole skin."
All this was rather enigmatical, but Ralph understood that he was not
to ask any questions.
After that Mr. Bludson maintained a dignified silence as he plunged,
with Ralph at his side, into the regions of the wholesale trade. They
called at several grocery and provision stores, and also at a ship
chandler's. The boatswain had sundry talks with sundry clerks and some
drays were loaded.
Finally the two emerged upon the river front where lay, among other
craft, a steam tug with a gang plank ashore. Tom pulled off his coat
and gave it to Ralph, saying:
"Climb aboard with this, then come back and bear a hand.
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