CHAPTER VII.
ON THE DARK DECK Ease, of all good gifts the best, War and wave at last decree: Love alone denies us rest, Crueler than sword or sea.
William Watson.
"I am Columbus every time I cross," said Shirley.

"What lies out there in the west is an undiscovered country." "Then I shall have to take the part of the rebellious and doubting crew.
There is no America, and we're sure to get into trouble if we don't turn back." "You shall be clapped into irons and fed on bread and water, and turned over to the Indians as soon as we reach land." "Don't starve me! Let me hang from the yard-arm at once, or walk the plank.

I choose the hour immediately after dinner for my obsequies!" "Choose a cheerfuller word!" pleaded Shirley.
"I am sorry to suggest mortality, but I was trying to let my imagination play a little on the eternal novelty of travel, and you have dropped me down 'full faddom five.'" "I'm sorry, but I have only revealed an honest tendency of character.
Piracy is probably a more profitable line of business than discovery.
Discoverers benefit mankind at great sacrifice and expense, and die before they can receive the royal thanks.

A pirate's business is all done over the counter on a strictly cash basis." They were silent for a moment, continuing their tramp.

Pair weather was peopling the decks.