The skipper went on board on the 2nd of January, and was giving a last look round his ship with a Captain's eye, when a man presented himself at the fore part of the "Dolphin," and asked to speak with the Captain. One of the sailors led him on to the poop.
He was a strong, hearty-looking fellow, with broad shoulders and ruddy face, the simple expression of which ill concealed a depth of wit and mirth. He did not seem to be accustomed to a seafaring life and looked about him with the air of a man little used to being on board a ship; however, he assumed the manner of a Jack-tar, looking up at the rigging of the "Dolphin," and waddling in true sailor fashion.
When he had reached the Captain, he looked fixedly at him and said, "Captain James Playfair?"
"The same," replied the skipper. "What do you want with me?"
"To join your ship."
"There is no room; the crew is already complete."
"Oh, one man, more or less, will not be in the way; quite the contrary."
"You think so?" said James Playfair, giving a sidelong glance at his questioner.
"I am sure of it," replied the sailor.
"But who are you?" asked the Captain.
"A rough sailor, with two strong arms which, I can tell
