the rudder chains
without difficulty; but at the time that Smallbones was climbing up
again by the rope, he had perceived the blade of a carving knife working
at the rope, and was assured that Vanslyperken was attempting his life.
When he gained the rudder chains, he held, on. At first he thought of
calling for assistance; but hearing Vanslyperken order his boat to be
manned, the lad then resolved to wait a little longer, and allow his
master to think that he was drowned. The result was as Smallbones
intended. As soon as the lad saw the boat was out of hearing he called
out most lustily, and was heard by those on board, and rescued from his
cold immersion. He answered no questions which were put to him till he
had changed his clothing and recovered himself, and then with great
prudence summoned a council, composed of Short, Coble, and Jemmy Ducks,
to whom he narrated what had taken place. A long consultation
succeeded; and at last it was agreed that Smallbones should make his
appearance as he did, and future arrangements to be taken according to
circumstances.

As soon as Smallbones had ascertained the situation of his master, he
went forward and reported it to Dick Short, who with Coble came aft in
the cabin. Short looked at Vanslyperken.

"Conscience," said Short.

"And a damned bad un, too," replied Coble, hitching up his trousers.
"What's to be done, Short?"

"Nothing," replied Short.

"Just my idea," replied Coble; "let him come to if he pleases, or die
and be damned. Who cares?"

"Nobody," replied Short.

"My eyes, but he must have been frightened," said Smallbones; "for he
has left the key in the cupboard. I'll see what's in it for once and
away."

Snarleyyow, when Smallbones opened the cupboard, appeared to have an
intuitive idea that he was trespassing, so he walked out growling from
under the table: Short saluted him with a kick in the ribs, which tossed
him under the feet of Coble who gave him a second with his fisherman's
boots, and the dog howled, and ran out of the cabin. O, Mr
Vanslyperken! see what your favourite was brought to, because you did
not come to.

At this time Smallbones had his nose in the stone jar of scheedam--the
olfactory examination was favourable, so he put his mouth to it--the
labial essay still more so, so he took down a wine-glass, and, without
any ceremony, filled a bumper, and handed it to Coble.

"We'll drink to his recovery," said Obadiah, tossing off the c