Dikes and Ditches; Or, Young America in Holland and Belgium - A Story of Travel and Adventure. Oliver 1822-1897 Optic

the events which had occurred since the squall came on, explaining the means by which the shipwrecked party had been saved, and the vessel righted. He generously bestowed great praise upon his officers and crew for their zealous efforts both in working the Josephine, and in saving the galiot and her crew.

      “I have been worried about you, Captain Kendall. You did not seem to be as prudent as usual when the storm was threatening. Ten minutes before the squall came up you had every rag of canvas set, including your fore square-sail. You ought to have reduced sail half an hour sooner, especially as there was no wind, and not a sail was drawing. You should have taken your precautions sooner, for you can’t tell the precise moment when a hurricane will burst upon you. All light sails and all extra ones should be taken in when there is a possibility of a squall.”

      “I was attending the Greek class,” replied Paul; but he resolved to make no allusion to the difficulty between Mr. Hamblin and himself.

      Paul’s reply gave the principal an idea of the occasion of the unpleasantness, but he refrained from any further remark on the subject.

      “The Dutch captain is much troubled about the salvage on his vessel, for the Belgian pilot told him the Josephine would be entitled to two thirds or three fourths of the property saved,” continued Paul.

      “Salvage!” said the principal, with a smile. “Well, I suppose you are entitled to it.”

      “I hope you will give the Dutchman the vessel and cargo. He feels very badly. He has lost a brother and a brother-in-law, and now he is afraid of losing nearly all that was saved. I hope you will not take any salvage. I am sure the Josephines would all vote to have you make no claim for it.”

      “Excellent! I hope they will,” replied the principal, as he ascended to the schooner’s deck, followed by Mr. Fluxion and Paul.