Page:The Naval Officer (1829), vol. 2.djvu/199

 with the benignant smile of our first acquaintance.

"Mr. Mildmay," said he, "I always assume a little tartness with my officers when they first join," ("and when they quit you too," thought I,) "not only to prove to them that I am, and will be the captain of my own ship, but also as an example to the men, who, when they see what the officers are forced to put up with, feel themselves more contented with their lot, and obey more readily; but, as I told you before, the comfort of my officers is my constant study —you are welcome to go ashore, and have twenty-four hours leave to collect your necessaries."

To this harangue I made no reply; but, touching my hat, quitted the cabin. I felt so much contempt for the man that I was afraid to speak, lest I should commit myself.

The captain shortly after quitted the ship, telling the first lieutenant that I had permission to go on shore. I was now left at liberty to