or me to impart to my pupils a
knowledge of that noblest language of the historic past, if they are to
be permitted to leave the class when they choose to do so. I shall refer
this matter to Mr. Lowington for his decision. He must suspend the
captain, or he must suspend me. If I cannot control my scholars, I will
not attempt to instruct. It would be preposterous to do so. I shall take
a boat, and go on board of the ship at once, for this difficulty admits
of no delay."

Professor Hamblin, in high dudgeon, took his hat, and went up the
ladder. Mr. Stoute shook his fat sides, laughing at the ire of his
distinguished and learned associate. He was desirous of seeing his
companion start for the ship in the approaching tempest, and he followed
him on deck.

"Captain Kendall," said Mr. Hamblin, sternly, as he walked up to the
young commander, heedless of the rattling thunder and the flashing
lightning.

Paul bowed politely, and looked at the professor, intimating that he was
ready to hear him. It was noticeable that Mr. Hamblin always called the
commander "Mr. Kendall" when he was in the steerage attending to his
studies, and "Captain Kendall" on deck, or in the cabin. The professor
intended to indicate, by this choice of terms, that he was captain
during school hours.

"Captain Kendall, I desire a boat immediately," added Mr. Hamblin.

"A boat!" exclaimed Paul, astonished at the request at such a time.

"I said a boat, Captain Kendall. I purpose to refer the matter of your
disobedience to Mr. Lowington without any unnecessary delay."

"But, Mr. Hamblin, there is a squall coming up."

"I am aware of that; but I demand the boat."

"It would be dangerous, sir. The boat would certainly be swamped."

"I will take the responsibility of that."

"I should be very happy to furnish the boat, sir; but I cannot expose a
crew to such a storm as will soon break upon us," replied Paul.

"You refuse--do you?" demanded the professor, angrily.

"I feel compelled to do so, sir."

"In my hearing, Mr. Lowington instructed you to furnish the professors
with a boat at any time when they desired it."

"I will furnish the boat, sir; but I will not expose the crew to such
peril. I will hoist out the third cutter for you, sir, if you wish."

"I demand a sufficient number of sailors to row the boat."

"You will pardon me, sir; but I will not send any seamen into a boat
until the squall is over. It is unreasonable to ask such a thing.