human
Yes, a very smart crew, Captain Chubb, said the lieutenant,
gpt
Oh, don't you take any notice of that, Harding. Cocky, you called it. You should drop that; it's too schoolboy-like. You know a fellow may be only a midshipman, still the ship's roll does call him a man, and when a fellow's an officer in command of a lot of sailors, he's obliged to put it on a bit, else he'd never be able to keep them in their places.
human
Yes, I see,
gpt
That's right; and before I go I just want to say it was very thoughtful of you to promise that the lads shouldn't have any drink. I got into several rows when I was young and green, and went ashore with boats' crews. They used to try on all sorts of dodges to get away to the public-house. I say, get that uncle of yours to stop about here fishing for a bit. I want to get you aboard the _Di_ and spend an evening with us at the mess. Do. I shall get to like you.
human
All right; I will try, said Rodd.
gpt
It wouldn't be the first time I've been aboard a man-of-war.
human
Eh? Where?
gpt
Plymouth harbour.
human
Oh yes, I forgot. That's where you live when you are at home. Why don't you join altogether? You are just cut out for a middy.
gpt
Couldn't leave uncle. Going to be a naturalist.
human
A what?
gpt
Scientific gentleman.
human
But serve the King!
gpt
What, and be sent down here hunting after the blackbirding blackguards?
human
Pshaw! That's not really what we are here for; only if we see a suspicious-looking craft we board her.
gpt
Then what are you here for?
human
King's business. Mum. Mustn't say.
gpt
Now, Mr Lindon! Good-evening, Captain Chubb; and good-evening, doctor. Glad to have met you, sir, and I hope you won't put me down in your black books as _homo durissimus_, or some other scientific name. Give way, my lads. Mr Lindon! Do you want to be left behind?
human
All right, sir, cried the middy, springing into the boat and coming down into the arms of a couple of the men.
gpt
Good-night, Harding! We shall expect you on board the _Di_.