I never said as how I was betrothed.' 'What then ?' I asked.
'I am getting up anchor now, to run down to her and summon her.

Look ye, lad,' he continued, plucking off his cap and scratching his ragged locks; 'I've had to do wi' wenches enow from the Levant to the Antilles--wenches such as a sailorman meets, who are all paint and pocket.

It's but the heaving of a hand grenade, and they strike their colours.

This is a craft of another guess build, and unless I steer wi' care she may put one in between wind and water before I so much as know that I am engaged.

What think ye, heh?
Should I lay myself boldly alongside, d'ye see, and ply her with small arms, or should I work myself clear and try a long range action?
I am none of your slippery, grease-tongued, long-shore lawyers, but if so be as she's willing for a mate, I'll stand by her in wind and weather while my planks hold out.' 'I can scarce give advice in such a case,' said I, 'for my experience is less than yours.