nly observe, in the preamble, how artfully he
inserts `appearance of a conspiracy, tending to bring him into
contempt;' and again, `for the better discipline of his Majesty's
service, which must invariably suffer when there is an appearance of
want of cordiality between those to whom the men must look for example.'
Upon my soul, he's devilish clever. I do believe he'd find out a
reason for drawing out all our double teeth, if he was inclined, and
prove it was all for the benefit of his Majesty's service. Well, now,
what's to be done?"

"Why, what's your opinion, Roberts?"

"Oh, mine is to go; and if you will act with me, he won't allow us to
dine with him a second time."

"Well, then, I agree," replied the surgeon.

"And so must I, then, I presume; but, by heavens, downright tyranny and
oppression."

"Never mind; listen to me. Let's all go, and all behave as ill as we
can--be as unmannerly as bears--abuse everything--be as familiar as
possible, and laugh in his face. He cannot touch us for it, if we do
not go too far--and he'll not trouble us to come a second time."

Their plans were arranged; and at three o'clock they were ushered into
the cabin, with one of the midshipmen of the ship, and Jerry, who, as a
stranger, had been honoured with an invitation. Captain Bradshaw, whose
property was equal to his liberality, piqued himself upon keeping a good
table; his cook was an _artiste_, and his wines were of the very best
quality. After all, there was no great hardship in dining with him--
but, "upon compulsion!"--No. The officers bowed. The captain,
satisfied with their obedience, intended, although he had brought them
there by force, to do the honours of his table with the greatest
urbanity.

"Roberts," said he, "do me the favour to take the foot of the table.--
Doctor, here's a chair for you.--Mr Bradly, come round on this side.
Now, then, steward, off covers, and let us see what you have for us.
Why, youngster, does your captain starve you?"

"No, sir," replied Jerry, who knew what was going on; "but he don't give
me a dinner every day."

"Humph!" muttered the captain, who thought Mr Jerry very free upon so
short an acquaintance.

The soup was handed round; the first spoonful that Roberts took in his
mouth, he threw out on the snow-white deck, crying out, as soon as his
mouth was empty, "O Lord!"

"Why, what's the matter?" inquired the captain.

"So cursed hot, I've burnt my tongue."

"Oh, that