I'll just give 'em a bit of me mind," and he went forward.
Hozier heard him reading the Riot Act to the shell-backs who were supposed to keep a sharp lookout ahead.

But the captain did not monopolize the conversation.

His deep notes rumbled only at intervals.
The men had something to say.

He returned to the bridge.
"One of them scallywags sez 'e 'as seen a ghost," he announced, with the calm air of a man who states that the moon will rise during the next hour.
"I wish he could see less remarkable things, such as schooners, sir," said Hozier.
"But 'e swears 'e sawr it twiced." "Oh, is he the man who reported a ghost outside the lazarette last night ?" "I s'pose so.

Did 'e tell you about it?
That's where she walks." "She!" "That's his yarn--a female ghost, a black 'un, black clo'es anyhow.
He's a dashed fool, but he's no boozer, though his mate's tongue is a bit thick yet.