Читать книгу Wrecked on Spider Island; Or, How Ned Rogers Found the Treasure онлайн

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Leading the way below he brought out a pair of woolen trousers, two shirts and a reefing jacket, which he gave to Ned as he said:

“So you’re goin’ to sea, eh?”

“Yes, sir.”

“First voyage?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Run away from home, I reckon.”

“No, sir; I’ve never had any since I can remember, an’ if I knew of one you wouldn’t see me here. I’ve only shipped because I can’t help myself. This livin’ on wind ain’t what it’s cracked up to be, an’ I want to get under cover for the winter.”

Mr. Stout looked at the boy almost pityingly, and said half to himself:

“It’s kinder tough to strike this pertic’lar craft on the first cruise.”

“Isn’t she a sound vessel, sir?” Ned asked, fearful lest there might be good reason for him to remain ashore.

“Oh, yes,” the mate replied quickly, looking like one who fancies he has been so indiscreet as to say too much. “There’s nothin’ wrong with the Evenin’ Star. I was thinkin’ of somethin’ else when I spoke. Get inter them clothes so I can show you where to go to work. I reckon the duds you’ve taken off will be about fit to throw overboard; they wouldn’t hang together many days longer.”