CHAPTER IX.
THE WATCH-BILL.
Shuffles struggled with the irons and with the stout men who held him until he had exhausted himself; and then, because his frame, rather than his spirit, was worn down, he was quiet.

It was the first case of severe discipline that had occurred on board, and it created a tremendous sensation among the students.
Mr.Lowington stood with folded arms, watching the vain struggles of the culprit, until he was reduced to a state of comparative calmness.

He looked sad, rather than angry, and his dignity was not impaired by the assault upon his authority.
"Shuffles, I am sorry to see one who has been an officer of the ship reduced to your condition; but discipline must and shall be maintained," said the principal.

"We are on the high seas now, and disobedience is dangerous.

You led me to believe that you had reformed your life and conduct." "It isn't my fault," replied Shuffles, angrily.
"You had better not reply to me in that tone," added Mr.Lowington, mildly.
"Yes, I will!" "Mr.Topliffe," continued the principal.
"Here, sir," replied the head steward.
"You will have the brig cleared out for use." "Yes, sir;" and the head steward went below to obey the order.
There was not a boy on board who knew what the "brig" was, though the establishment had existed in the steerage from the time when the boys first went on board the ship.