"Then I am going to take charge. Call up the two sailors who have been running this boat for you."
With a dark look on his face Josiah Crabtree did as requested. At the same time Tom beckoned to Sam to come on the deck.
The sailors were much astonished to see the two strangers. Only the fat tar could speak English, and he translated what was said into French for his companion's benefit.
It was with very bad grace that Josiah Crabtree told the sailor who commanded the Wellington that Tom would now direct the movements of the vessel.
"We have—er—decided to change our plans," said the former school-teacher.
"What you lak to do den, hey?" demanded the fat sailor.
"What is the nearest American town to here?" asked Tom.
"Ze nearest place?"
"Yes."
"Buryport."
"And how far is that from here?"
"Ten or eleven miles."
"Then we will sail for that place, and at once."
At this Crabtree looked surprised.
