"I will do the best I can for him, Captain Murchison, and will make a sailor out of him--never fear. There is nothing for you to do on board yet, my boy, except to keep your eyes open. Watch all that is going on. This is a rigger's job; but it is well to learn how everything is done, because you may be called upon to do it any moment. Do not be afraid of asking me questions about anything you do not understand, and do not mind if I answer you sharp if I happen to be busy when you ask me--that is my way; and I daresay the riggers, when they see that you really want to learn, will be willing enough to give you a hint or two."