He was quite a contrast to the worthy, quiet, unobtrusive mate of
the Pilgrim; not so estimable a man, perhaps, but a far better mate of
a vessel; and the entire change in Captain T---'s conduct, since he
took command of the ship, was owing, no doubt, in a great measure, to
this fact. If the chief officer wants force, discipline slackens,
everything gets out of joint, the captain interferes continually; that
makes a difficulty between them, which encourages the crew, and the
whole ends in a three-sided quarrel. But Mr. Brown (the mate of the
Alert) wanted no help from anybody; took everything into his own
hands; and was more likely to encroach upon the authority of the
master, than to need any spurring. Captain T--- gave his directions to
the mate in private, and, except in coming to anchor, getting under
weigh, tacking, reefing topsails, and other "all-hands-work," seldom
appeared in person. This is the proper state of things, and while this
lasts, and there is a good understanding aft, everything will go on
well.
Having furled all the sails, the royal yards were next to be sent
down. The English lad and myself sent down the main, which was
larger than the Pilgrim's main top-gallant yard; two more light hands,
the fore; and one boy, the mizen.
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