The chief mate approached and took me by the arm.  "Come with me, Monsieur John Bulldogue," said he, not unkindly, as he led me away; "and do not allow yourself to be more anxious as to your fate than you can help.  I tell you candidly that I cannot form the slightest idea what that fate will eventually be; many men, knowing the skipper as well as I do, would no doubt say that you will be thrown to the sharks before you are an hour older--and it may be; yes, it certainly may be; for you are the first who has ever dared to assume a defiant attitude toward him and he is an inordinately vain man, as well as a man of unbridled temper. But, somehow, I am inclined to think that your defiance, which some people would say must seal your fate, will be more likely to tell in your favour than against you.  Yes; although you have the misfortune to be an Englishman, I really think I may venture to encourage you to hope for the best.  Now, here we are; and here comes Moulineux with the irons.  I must obey orders and see that they are put on you; but make yourself as comfortable as you can; and I will send you down some breakfast presently.  And, monsieur, you may rely upon my goodwill; I admire courage wherever I see it, whether in friend or in enemy, and you have proved that you possess it.  If I find it in my power to do anything to help you, I will."