human
The order which I have written, and which I shall transmit to Captain Kendall as soon as the squadron comes to anchor, will set the matter right,
gpt
Do you insist on issuing that order?
human
I do.
gpt
Let me say that Mr. Stoute did not indorse my course, and that in future I will give Mr. Kendall permission to leave the class whenever he desires to do so.
human
That is very well, sir; but, under the circumstances, I cannot permit the captain to be embarrassed even by the necessity of asking permission. If, by any diffidence on his part, he should delay asking leave to go on deck, serious mishaps might occur.
gpt
Then I am to be subject to the will of that boy?
human
Not unless you are connected with the sailing department of the vessel. You are simply prevented from exercising your will over him, to the detriment of his duties as a navigator.
gpt
In this light the case looks different to me, added the professor, who was laboring to recede from his position as gracefully as possible.
human
I am willing to permit the captain to have his own will in all matters pertaining to the management of the vessel, as I am to allow the cook entire freedom in making his soup.
gpt
Then nothing more need be said, and you can resume your position on board of the Josephine at once.
human
I am not entirely satisfied about that order, Mr. Lowington,
gpt
Why not?
human
Because that sustains Mr. Kendall and condemns me in a public and formal manner.
gpt
That is precisely what I intend to do.
human
It amounts to sacrificing me, by placing me in a derogatory position. I have not transcended the power given me, and it is not right that I should be formally condemned.
gpt
The order passes no judgment upon the past; it relates to the future only. Captain Kendall must understand that he has full liberty to go when and where he pleases, in the discharge of his duty. I am confident he will not abuse this liberty.
human
But I am to stand before him in this business as a whipped puppy. Couldn't you give him the order verbally, and explain my position to him?
gpt
What is your position?
human
I mean simply that in detaining him I erred through a want of knowledge of seamanship.
gpt
I can explain that; but I think it would be better for you to do so.
human
For me! gasped the professor.
gpt
Why, sir, that would be an apology!
human
It would be merely an explanation, which would come more gracefully from you than from any other person.
gpt
I don't think so, sir. It would be lowering myself before him.
human
As you please, Mr. Hamblin. I will explain the matter myself, when I give him the order.
gpt
If you could give him the order verbally, it would be better.
human
No; he must have the written order to show to any professor who disputes his authority. But Captain Kendall will never give you any trouble. He is manly and gentle, and he will not take advantage of his position.
gpt
I think he will have abundant ground to manifest his triumph.
human
He will not do anything of the kind. If any officer of the Josephine treats you with disrespect, he shall be suspended at once from office.
gpt
That is very proper, sir,