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56 "I'd try to do my duty."

"Douse my toplights if I don't think you would; eh, Hobson?"

"I should hope so. But there's no telling what's in man or boy until he's put to the test. However, if the lad thinks to ship on the Columbia, it would do no harm to broach the subject to the captain," concluded the English sailor.

Once having spoken of the matter on his mind, Larry was now quite anxious to speak to the master of the Columbia concerning the trip. But during the afternoon neither Captain Ponsberry nor the mate showed themselves, having gone up to the Custom House to see about clearance papers.

"He can use one more hand," said Hobson. "But I heard Grandon speak of a German who wanted to go, a fellow who used to be a sailor but is now working on one of, the Oahu sugar plantations. If he's shipped him, I don't see how they will be room for another."

At this Larry's hopes fell somewhat, but they rose again when Luke Striker said he would speak to the captain as soon as he came back. With this he had to be content, and at the end of the day's work he bade the others good-night, picked up his coat, and left the vessel.