"Well, I was the same," he said. "But be careful, and don't go close to the rail."
[Illustration: Another flash lit up the scene.--_Page 179._]
Dave remained in the vicinity of the cabin. When another flash lit up the scene, he saw Billy Dill near the bow, stowing away some rope in the most unconcerned fashion possible. The old tar was in his element, and said afterward that the storm had done him more good than gallons of medicine would have accomplished. "Saterated me with salt brine, an' thet's wot I needed," were his words.
"How do you like it, now?" asked Captain Marshall, coming up a little later, while there was something of a lull.
"I don't mind it," answered Dave, smiling. "It's a little excitement, and that is what I like."
"I am thankful that you called me when you did."
"I did what I thought was best, sir. But I reckon it has put me into a hole with your first mate."
"No, but he overheard me telling the other boys that I had called you. He didn't say much, but he showed that he was angry."
"Humph! Well, don't you mind, Porter. It was the right thing to do. Shepley is a good sailor, but once in a while he takes risks that I don't like. If he troubles you about this, let me know, do you hear?"
"Yes, sir; but I am willing to fight my own battles."
"I don't doubt it, for you are gritty, I can see that. Nevertheless, you let me know."
"How long do you suppose this storm will last?"
"There is no telling, perhaps twenty-four hours and maybe two or three days. We are paying up for that nice weather we had," concluded the captain.
Finding he could do nothing on deck, and that he was getting wet through, Dave went below and to his stateroom. He found Roger and Phil lying down as before, and as miserable as ever. A little later supper was announced, but Dave had to eat alone, for neither the captain nor the mate came to join in the repast. It was a meal under difficulties, and Dave did not remain at the table long. He asked Roger and Phil if they wanted anything, but both declined.
"Why, the very idea of anything to eat makes me sicker than ever," declared the senator's son.
The storm did not abate during the evening, and the three boys spent rather a dismal time of it in the cabin and the staterooms. As night came on, none of them felt like going to bed, although advised to do so by Captain Marshall.