"
"All language is excusable in those affected with the malady of the
sea," replied the Frenchman, dancing a little to encourage his friend.
"Behold, if you would get up and do this, you would be as happy inside
as I am. But stay--I know what will ease you in an instant, and enable
you to order us right and left. The indefatigable Sherray put a fine
piece of fat pork in store before we sailed; I have just had it cooked,
for I was almost starving. It floats in brown liquor of the richest
order, such as no Englishman can refuse. Take a sip of pure rum, and you
will enjoy it surely. Say, my brave General, will you come and join me?
It will cure any little disquietude down here."
With a pleasant smile Charron laid his hand on the part of his commander
which he supposed to be blameable. Carne made an effort to get up and
kick him, but fell back with everything whirling around, and all human
standards inverted. Then the kindly Frenchman tucked him up, for his
face was blue and the chill of exhaustion striking into him. "I wish
you could eat a little bit," said Charron, gently; but Carne gave a push
with his elbow. "Well, you'll be worse before you are better, as the
old women say in your country. But what am I to do about the two British
ships--for they are sure to be British--now in sight?" But Carne turned
his back, and his black boots dangled from the rim of his bunk as if
there was nothing in them.
"This is going a little too far," cried Charron; "I must have some
orders, my commander.
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