This has become so fixed a
custom, that it is like a law, and is never infringed upon by a wise
master, unless his mate is no seaman; in which case, the captain
must often oversee things for himself. This, however, could not be
said of our chief mate; and he was very jealous of any encroachment
upon the borders of his authority.
On Monday morning, the captain told him to stay the fore-topmast
plumb. He accordingly came forward, turned all hands to, with
tackles on the stays and back-stays, coming up with the seizings,
hauling here, belaying there, and full of business, standing between
the knightheads to sight the mast,- when the captain came forward,
and also began to give orders. This made confusion, and the mate,
finding that he was all aback, left his place and went aft, saying
to the captain--
"If you come forward, sir, I'll go aft. One is enough on the
forecastle."
This produced a reply, and another fierce answer; and the words
flew, fists were doubled up, and things looked threateningly.
"I'm master of this ship."
"Yes, sir, and I'm mate of her, and know my place! My place is
forward, and yours is aft!"
"My place is where I choose! I command the whole ship; and you are
mate only so long as I choose!"
"Say the word, Capt.
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