The last dose the captain had taken appeared to cap the climax, and he could no longer eat, or talk so as to be clearly understood.

When the mates had finished their lunch, they saw that the skipper had dropped asleep in his chair.

They rose from their places, and rattled the stools.

The noise roused the sleeper, and he sprang to his feet with a violent start.
"What's time'z it, Mr.Zbalker ?" he demanded, catching hold of the table to avoid falling on the cabin floor.
He seemed to be conscious that he was not presenting a perfectly regular appearance to his new officers; and he dropped into his chair, making a ludicrous effort to stiffen his muscles and put on his dignity, but it was a failure.
"Quarter-past two, Captain Sullendine," replied Graines in answer to the question.
"Most an hour more 'fore we git started," stammered the invalid.
"I didn't sleep none last night, I'm sleepy.

I'm go'n to turn in for half an hour, 'n then I'll be on deck ready for busi-- ready for buzness." Graines assisted him to his stateroom, for he could not walk, and he was afraid he would fall and hurt himself.