"I don't care to remain on board after we reach New Bedford," I replied, after a moment's hesitation.
"Why not?"
"You ought to know as well as I do."
"But I don't. You signed articles, and"
"I didn't sign anything," I interrupted.
"Your name appears on the books," he returned, with a shrug of his shoulders.
"If it does, it's a forgery."
"I know nothing about that. But I am willing to do this: If you are willing to go ashore quietly and say nothing, I am willing that you shall do so."
"And if not?"
He frowned.
"Then you'll stay on board," he said sharply.
"Perhaps I won't," I replied with spirit. It is doubtful if I would have spoken so sharply had I not had my friends on board.
"Yes, you will. Do you suppose I am going to let a boy ride over me? Not much!"
"You had no right to take me on board."
"I have a right to take my men where I find them. Now get to your work. I will give you half an hour to think over what I have said. Then you will either sign off for the trip without pay, or you will continue on the trip."
