Indeed, so far as physical conditions went, Mr. Sturge was enjoying a
pleasure trip. His bold expostulations, moreover (for he did not
lack courage), had considerably impressed Captain Crang, who, though
not easily cowed as a rule, met them at a double disadvantage, being
at once unable to recall the events of overnight, and firmly
convinced that the whole misadventure was a trick of his Royal
Highness. In this state of mind the Captain, shaken by his debauch,
had almost collapsed before Mr. Sturge's demand that the ship should
be put about--or, as he expressed it, turned round--and navigated to
the nearest point of shore.
"If," said Mr. Sturge, with a comprehensive wave of the hand, "if
along yon coast, in cove or bay or any natural recess--call it how
you will--there lurk a bench of magistrates insensate enough, as you
believe, to uphold this violation of a British subject's liberty,
steer for them, sir! I challenge you to steer for them! I can say
no fairer than that. Select what tribunal you please, sir, and I
will demonstrate before it that I and my companions, in spite of
appearances, are _no_ seamen. You are to understand that by this
disclaimer I cast no reflection upon even the humblest toiler of the
deep. Nay, while myself inept either to trim the sail or net the
finny tribes, I respect those hardy callings--no man more so. Only I
claim that my own profession exempts me from this respectable but
un-congenial service; and that in short, sir, by forcibly trepanning
me, you have rendered yourself liable to swingeing damages, besides
inviting public attention to the fact that you were senselessly
intoxicated last night.
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