human
You see, gentlemen, it's like this. That there long-necked sarpint thing has only got to make a rush and chuck itself out of the water aboard us here, and break the schooner's back, and where should us be then?
gpt
I don't know, said the skipper shortly.
human
But what do you say, doctor?
gpt
Well, for my part, speaking for the advancement of natural history, Captain Chubb, I should like to see that creature lying dead upon the surface, and left floating long enough for you and your men to take measurements, while my nephew and I did the best we could with pen and pencil to describe what might very well be called one of the wonders of the world.
human
And what do you say, squire?
gpt
I say you'd better load the gun again, Captain Chubb, replied Rodd, speaking very hurriedly.
human
We might hit it if it came up, and then we could try and do what my uncle says.
gpt
Right, growled the skipper.
human
Man the gun again, and you, Cross, come below with me and fetch a canister of grape-shot and a full business charge to load the piece. You lads who are not wanted for the gun, each of you take a musket and an axe. It aren't likely that we shall come to close quarters, but if we do--well, you know what.