"We shall get a good observation to-day, and if the men work hearty all the spare spars and sails will be up by nightfall." Mr.Higgins's mind was evidently on his duty, and not being inclined to enjoy the captain's conversation, he took every opportunity to change the subject.
"Give us your hand, Mr.Higgins," said he, rather unannoyed than otherwise by what that officer had said.

"But look you here!" He lowered his voice as he took the officer's hand, "There'll be no whales to kill where that poor fellow has gone.

Not a whale.

I promised his poor old father--a good old red coat killer he was, too, in the Revolution--that this here son of his should kill the first whale.

Yes, I did, Mr.
Higgins.