Make your speech correspond with your dress, and let it be rough and rude, for that is the fashion among the laboring class in this region." "I suppose sea-slang will not be out of order," said Weeks.
"Not at all.

Simply consider that you are sailors and laborers, and do not forget it," answered Christy; and he was confident that he had selected only those who were competent to conduct themselves as the occasion might require.

"Now, Mr.Graines, tell off five men--any five." The engineer called off five of the seamen, whose names he had learned from the list given him by his superior officer.
"Now these five men will each choose his partner, who is to be his companion while we are on shore, and who is to act with him," continued Christy.

"I do not know yet any better than you do what you are to do; but if you are called upon to do any difficult or dangerous work, remember that you are American seamen, and do your best for your country.

If you are required to do any fighting, as I do not expect you will, our success depends upon your strong arms and your ready wills.
You will do your whole duty, whatever it may be, and do it like true American sailors." "Ay, ay, sir!" came in a unanimous voice from the knot of men, though in subdued tones.
"Call the first name again, Mr.Graines," added Christy.
"Weeks," replied the engineer.
"Select your man, Weeks." "Bingham," said the oiler.
The names of the other four men who had been selected were called in turn, and each of them selected his partner, each one of course choosing his best friend, if he had not already been appropriated.
"Now, my men, Weeks and Bingham, the first couple, to be called simply 'One' when wanted, and they will answer to this designation, will start first.