Although his heart pounded a moment or two at first he was surprised to find how soon he became calm.

It was perhaps because he had been through so many dangers that one more did not count for much.
"You see, captain," he said, "that neither has the advantage of the other.

I did not expect to meet you here, or in truth, anywhere else.

I left you in command of the schooner, and you have deserted your post.

When I held that position I remained true to my duty." The captain, who was heavily armed, carrying a cutlass as well as pistols, smiled sourly.
"You're a lad of spirit, Peter," he said.