Lost in the Forest

new captain, after changing the course of the ship, and making a few arrangements to suit the altered state of affairs, ordered him to go forward and do duty as a common seaman, telling him that he did not intend to have any land-lubbers or idlers aboard, and that he would be called to do doctor's work when his services should be required.

That night our hero contrived to hold a whispering interview, in a dark corner of the forecastle, with his friends Larry O'Hale and Muggins. He found that the former had resolved to join the crew in order to be near himself; that Muggins had joined, because of his desire to share the fortunes of Larry; and that both had made up their minds to effect their escape on the first favourable opportunity.

"Now, ye see, boys," said Larry, "this is how it is--"

"Don't open your bread-basket hatch so wide," growled Muggins, "else you'll be overheerd--that's wot it is."

"This is how it is," repeated Larry, "not bein' fish, nor gulls, nor say sarpints, we ha