Page:Adventures of Roderick Random.pdf/58

 time regaled me with a draught of flip, and comforted me with the hopes of being put on board of the Thunder next day. I no sooner heard him name the Thunder, than I asked, if he knew Lieutenant Bowling? telling him I was his kinsman; at which he expressed an inclination to save me: and when he was relieved, brought some cold beef in a platter and biscuit, to which we supped plentifully, and afterwards drank another can of flip together. He told me, Captain Oakhum was recovered of his wound, and at that time commanded the ship.

Next day I was, with the other pressed men, put on board the Thunder, lying at the Nore. After we had been all entered upon the books, I inquired of one of my ship mates where the Surgeon was, that I might have my wounds dressed? In my way to the cockpit, I was met by the midshipman who had used me so barbarously in the tender: He seeing me free from my chains, asked, with an insolent air, who had released me? To this I answered, whoever did it, I am persuaded did not consult you in the affair. I had no sooner uttered these words, than he cried d——n you, you son of a b——h, I'll teach you to talk so to your officer: so saying he bestowed on me several severe stripes and going to the commanding officer, made such a report of me, that I was immediately put in irons by the master-at-arms, and