If he had to leave one ship for another he merely shifted his canvas bag to the latter, from which he stirred no more.

When he was not sailing in reality he was sailing in imagination.

After having been ship's boy, novice, sailor, he became quartermaster, master, and finally lieutenant of the _Halbrane_, and he had already served for ten years as second in command under Captain Len Guy.
James West was not even ambitious of a higher rise; he did not want to make a fortune; he did not concern himself with the buying or selling of cargoes; but everything connected with that admirable instrument a sailing ship, James West understood to perfection.
The personal appearance of the lieutenant was as follows: middle height, slightly built, all nerves and muscles, strong limbs as agile as those of a gymnast, the true sailor's "look," but of very unusual far-sightedness and surprising penetration, sunburnt face, hair thick and short, beardless cheeks and chin, regular features, the whole expression denoting energy, courage, and physical strength at their utmost tension.
James West spoke but rarely--only when he was questioned.

He gave his orders in a clear voice, not repeating them, but so as to be heard at once, and he was understood.

I call attention to this typical officer of the Merchant Marine, who was devoted body and soul to Captain Len Guy as to the schooner _Halbrane_.