And you started out with him to sail his ship, you rascal?
That's a piece of impudence almost as great as his own." Bittern did not much like this speech, and wanted to explain that since he had served under Blackbeard he had commanded vessels himself, but he restrained himself and told how Sam Loftus had been tumbled overboard for running afoul his captain, and how he had been appointed to his place.
Now Blackbeard laughed again, with a great pound upon his knee.

"He is a man after my own heart," he shouted, "be he sailor or no sailor, this nightcap commander of yours.

I know I shall love him!" And springing to his feet and uttering a resounding oath, he swore that he would visit his new brother that afternoon.
"Now, away with you!" cried Blackbeard, "and tell Sir Nightcap--" "Bonnet," interrupted Bittern.
"Well, Bonnet, or Cap, it matters not to me.

Row straight back to your ship, and let him know that I shall be there and shall expect to be received with admiral's honours." Bittern looked somewhat embarrassed.

"But, captain," he said, "my men are on their way to the town, and I fear me they will rebel if I tell them they cannot now go there." In saying this the sailing-master spoke not only for his men, but for himself.