Part 32 (2/2)
The envious brother had so far progressed in his views as to believe that a subordinate position in the _Woodville_ was better than no position at all. He had heard of the fine times the parties had on board of her, of the splendid dinners, and the inspiring music; and he was very anxious to have a situation in her. He was afraid of Mr.
Sherwood, and dared not again take his place boldly on board. At a favorable moment, when Lawry and the deck-hands were employed on the after part of the deck, he slipped down the plank and into the forecastle, concealing himself in the berth of one of the firemen.
This trick might insure him a pa.s.sage with the excursion-party, if nothing more.
When the ladies and gentlemen had all arrived, the boat left the wharf, and commenced her voyage down the lake. After she had gone a couple of miles Ben Wilford came out of his hiding-place, and proceeded directly to the wheel-house, feeling that he had nothing to fear from his kind-hearted brother, and hoping to conciliate him before Mr. Sherwood discovered that he was on board. He entered the open door of the wheel-house as coolly as though he belonged there.
”Ben!” exclaimed the little captain, when he saw him. ”I didn't know you were on board.”
”I didn't mean you should till I got ready,” replied Ben.
”I don't know as Mr. Sherwood will like it when he sees you,” added Lawry.
”If you like it, he will.”
”I'm sure I've no objection to your going with me.”
”I knew you hadn't.”
”But the steamer belongs to Mr. Sherwood to-day.”
”Don't you want some help, Lawry? Mother thinks you are working rather too hard.”
”I don't think I shall hurt myself,” answered Lawry, laughing; and he was really pleased to find Ben in such good humor. ”I don't see that you can help me any.”
”I can steer.”
”So can Rounds,” replied Lawry, referring to the deckhand whom he called to the wheel when he left his post.
”Lawry, you are my brother--ain't you?”
”Of course I am.”
”And I am your brother--am I not?”
”Without a doubt you are.”
”Then there are two good reasons why we should not quarrel.”
”I'm very sure I don't wish to quarrel, Ben,” added Lawry earnestly.
”And I'm just as sure I don't,” continued Ben. ”This is a splendid little boat, and we might make a first-rate thing of it. I still think I ought to be captain of her; but I won't quarrel about that now. I'll take any place you have a mind to give me.”
This was certainly very kind and condescending on the part of the elder brother, after what had occurred; and Lawry really felt happy in the excellent spirit which Ben appeared to manifest.
”You might give me a chance as mate, if you like,” added Ben, as he perceived the smile on his brother's face.
”I will speak to Mr. Sherwood about it.”
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