Mad! what then?
I think for my part one half of the nation is mad--and the other not very sound--I don't see why I han't as good a right to be mad as another man--but, doctor, as I was saying, I'd be bound to you, if you would direct me where I can buy that same tackle that all arrant must wear; as for the matter of the long pole, headed with iron, I'd never desire better than a good boat-hook, and could make a special good target of that there tin sconce that holds the candle--mayhap any blacksmith will hammer me a skull-cap, d'ye see, out of an old brass kettle; and I can call my horse by the name of my ship, which was Mufti." The surgeon was one of those wags who can laugh inwardly, without exhibiting the least outward mark of mirth or satisfaction.

He at once perceived the amusement which might be drawn from this strange disposition of the sailor, together with the most likely means which could be used to divert him from such an extravagant pursuit.

He therefore tipped Clarke the wink with one side of his face, while the other was very gravely turned to the captain, whom he addressed to this effect.

"It is not far from hence to Sheffield, where you might be fitted completely in half a day--then you must wake your armour in church or chapel, and be dubbed.

As for this last ceremony, it may be performed by any person whatsoever.