book_id
stringlengths 2
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| title
stringclasses 1
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stringclasses 1
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listlengths 1
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|---|---|---|---|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I reckon you lads think the old _Essex_ has got about as much as she can stagger under, eh?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I allow we've got a good big job on our hands, lads, the old man said, speaking thoughtfully, as if weighing well every word,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Will we go to Valparaiso?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's beyond an old shellback like me to say, lad; but if I was the captain of this 'ere frigate, I'd think twice before I poked my nose into that port the second time."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why? They treated us well before."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ay, an' that's why I'd keep my weather-eye liftin' while we're in these waters. England is a strong nation, an' these 'ere young republics won't dare hold out against her commands very long. There'll be a big lot of kickin' in Great Britain when word is sent there of what we've been doin', an' you'll find that she'll shut every port on the Pacific against us."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll answer for it that our comrades hold those two Britishers in check until we can get back,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I will give you all the same show, he said;"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I count on staying here, if Captain Porter don't drive me out, he said emphatically, thus showing that his decision had been made before we came below."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You know, Ezra, that I don't amount to much when it comes to a show of bravery; but I'm not such a coward as to turn now, when the greatest danger is yet to be met."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hold your jaw, you lubbers! he shouted with such a volume of sound that he must have been heard distinctly by those on the quarter-deck."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The captain wants to know how many of us is achin' to get home before the Britishers send half a dozen frigates down here to blow us out of the water, an' he'll never get the information unless you settle down into peaceable sailormen. There's no use waggin' your chins over this thing; every man has a right to do what pleases him best, an' now he's got a fair chance. What I say is this: Let them as want to go aboard the _Georgiana_ toddle to the port side, and them who count on holdin' by the old hooker, step over to starboard."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "This 'ere won't do at all. Some of us are bound to go, seein's how we can't let that cargo of oil run to waste. Of course _I'll_ hold to the frigate; but them as have got wives an' children ashore ought 'er get over to port, an' we'll feel no shame for 'em, knowin' as we do that a crew must be made up for the _Georgiana_."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's none of your business how many wives or children we've got, Hiram Hackett! one of the throng shouted."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's as much our right as yours to stick to the frigate, an' we count on doin' it. Why not send the boys? They can do the work of sailormen aboard the _Georgiana_! Then you'll have two towards a crew."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Come here, you skulkers!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Act as spokesman, Phil, I whispered."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You can go ahead of me when it comes to jawing; but remember that they can't drive us off unless the captain gives the word, and I'm thinking that my cousin Stephen will stand up for our rights."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you two infants ready to obey orders an' go aboard the _Georgiana_?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "No, sir! Phil shouted at the full strength of his lungs."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We've got as much right to stay as you have, an' we won't volunteer!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Three cheers for the infants!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Surely you will stand our friend in this matter, Cousin Stephen,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In what way, Ezra? Are so many eager to see home again that you fear there'll be no room for you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It's just the other way, sir, Phil broke in."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not a man will volunteer, and some of them have said that we two lads must go whether we like it or not."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It isn't right to force us because we are lads! I cried."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We've done our duty so far as we knew, and our age shouldn't give license for injustice!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "See here, my lads, you're not looking at this matter in the proper light. We shall soon be turning and twisting to get out of a British frigate's way, and many of us will lose the number of his mess before the _Essex_ doubles Cape Horn again. You can go now without being called a coward, and it's far better to get out of the scrape while affairs are flourishing as they are at present."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you going in the _Georgiana_, Cousin Stephen?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What? Me? Never, unless the captain gives a positive order to that effect."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If you are allowed to remain, why should we be forced to go?"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Those men who have families must go, he said finally, after declaring that it had become necessary for him to settle the matter, since the crew themselves could not."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A list shall be made out of such as have others depending upon them, and it will then be posted on the gun-deck. Abide by my decision as you ever have, and I will make it my solemn duty to let the people of the United States know that those who returned in the _Georgiana_ did not do so of their own free will."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "In the way of service to the public, perhaps the greatest performed by the _Essex_ was protecting American ships in the Pacific, nearly all of which would probably have fallen into the hands of the enemy but for her appearance in that ocean. But the positive injury done the English commerce was far from trifling. The _Essex_ had now captured about four thousand tons of its shipping, made near four hundred prisoners, and for the moment had literally destroyed its fisheries in this part of the world. In October, 1812, she had sailed from America alone, with six months' provisions and the usual stores in her; and in October, 1813, she was lying, in perfect security, at an island in the Pacific, with a respectable consort, surrounded by prizes, and in possession of all the means that were necessary to render a frigate of her class efficient. Throughout the whole of these movements we see a constant tendency to distress the enemy, and to maintain the character of the ship as an active, well-organized, and high-toned man-of-war."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I allow, lads, that we've come to an end of the 'luck' for the time bein'. That 'ere craft will muster more men accordin' to her size than we can."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Gettin' afraid, eh?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not a bit of it, you lubber; but men count in the kind of a breeze we're tryin' to work up, an' towin' that ship with boats is child's play compared with what it would be to drag the _Essex_ through the water."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ezra McKnight! Philip Robbins!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You're a beauty!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What is the lieutenant thinkin' of to send a couple of infants out on a job like this?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Perhaps it would be a good idea for you to ask him; I don't care to take the chances of so doing, even though your curiosity is not satisfied, I said pertly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If shooting is to be done, which seems reasonable after we've been ordered to arm ourselves, I reckon the 'infants' can do as much as some others who are older."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Remember, McKnight, that you are not to make any effort at boarding, however tempting may be the opportunity. Get ahead of the chase and drive in her boats, after which you will return as soon as possible."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I understand, sir, Stephen replied, and then came the order to"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They can't stand that kind of a game very long, Master Hackett said, as he wounded one of the Britishers in the foremost boat."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They've come out to pull an oar an' ain't in shape for a fight, so it don't stand to reason they'll hold their ground a great while."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Ay, lad, the captain is goin' to board her, Master Hackett said quietly, when I called his attention to the frigate."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I counted the old man would be at that fun mighty soon after we'd got into position, an' the worst of it is that we don't have a hand in the scrimmage."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The boarders will soon be goin' over the Britisher's rail, an' then comes the time for us to pull a little nearer, Master Hackett whispered to me, as if thinking I needed cheering."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Take aim at the gunners, an' it'll make you a heap easier in mind if you can knock one over."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The 'luck of the _Essex_' still holds good, Master Hackett cried gleefully."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Yonder ship will show well among our fleet, an' it's a pity we can't give her a crew of decent size."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If that 'ere squall had held off five minutes longer, we'd have been in possession,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What will we do? I asked of Master Hackett when our misfortune was known on the gun-deck."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We're not likely to come across ammunition in these waters, unless by taking more prizes; and it begins to appear as if we'd driven all the Britishers away."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It ain't as bad as it might be, lad, although I allow it's rough enough. Accordin' to all accounts the _Seringapatam_ has enough aboard, although when the _Essex_ takes what she needs, it'll leave Lieutenant Downes well-nigh helpless."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We haven't outrun our luck, an' that's a fact! Yonder craft is the same we lost in the squall--the one that gave us such a long job with nothin' but a few broken oars to show for it!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, Master Hackett said deliberately, when the news I have set down above was made known on the gun-deck,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What then, Master Hackett?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What then, lad? Why, I reckon we'll have to take our medicine like little men; an' in the swallowin' of it we'll know what British prison ships are like."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then you don't believe we can double the Horn without coming upon some of them?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm allowin' that the old frigate will see her finish this side the cape, for it ain't good sense to believe she can fight her way through. I've said all along that the Britishers were bound to smash us some day, 'cause it don't stand to reason a nation what claims to rule the sea can afford to let a little craft like ours play hob with 'em in such fashion as we've been doin'. For the sake of their reputation they've got to gather us in."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Nooaheevah, and"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Noukahiva,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I have heard too of an English vessel that many years ago, after a weary cruise, sought to enter the bay of Nukuheva, and arriving within two or three miles of the land, was met by a large canoe filled with natives, who offered to lead the way to the place of their destination. The captain, unacquainted with the localities of the island, joyfully acceded to the proposition--the canoe paddled on and the ship followed. She was soon conducted to a beautiful inlet, and dropped her anchor in its waters beneath the shadows of the lofty shore. That same night the perfidious Typees, who had thus inveigled her into their fatal bay, flocked aboard the doomed vessel by hundreds, and at a given signal murdered every soul on board."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Seein's how we've driven the Britishers out of the Pacific Ocean, so to speak, I reckon it won't be any very hard job to wipe up the earth with a lot of niggers that ain't supposed to know the muzzle of a musket from the stock."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How much show would an old shellback who must depend upon a cutlass or a boarding pike, stand against these black fellows in a bit of woods so thick that you couldn't swing a cat?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We've muskets enough to arm all hands, an' I allow that you've got sense enough to pull the trigger after the piece has been loaded, eh?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can do that much all right, matey; but what about the rest of it. While I'm mixed up with a lot of bushes tryin' to reload, how am I to keep the villains from comin' to close quarters where I'm outclassed?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If you're goin' to pick up sich imaginin's as that, I reckon you wouldn't be fit timber for a shore fight; but I'd hate to say I was a Yankee, an' didn't dare to stand up in front of these heathen."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm willin' enough to stand up pervidin' I can find out what it all amounts to. We're mixin' in this 'ere row without gettin' any benefit from it."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We shall have the use of the bay while we're refittin', an' won't stand in danger of bein' knocked over by a dirty heathen and a club."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There's plenty of islands about here with bays as big as we need, an' no bloomin' war on hand,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "How do you know that? Have you been knockin' 'round these seas so many years that you can call to mind every hole and corner? If three white men can live here a matter of ten months, as we know has been the case, why isn't it the choice island of the whole group for us?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I ain't kickin' about the island; it's the war that sticks in my crop."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Let it stick there then, Master Hackett growled."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Send word aft that you've got a rush of light-colored blood to the head, an' ain't fit to be trusted ashore. I reckon the captain will let you off without makin' much of a fuss."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "See here, Hiram Hackett, you're too free with your tongue, an' that's no lie either. When I try to get out of a scrimmage, jest let me know, an' I'll make you a present of the best pair of black eyes you ever wore. I reckon a man can have his growl without it bein' told all over the ship that he's gettin' weak in the upper story, eh?"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Massachusetts"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The captain kept his face straight when the lad begun, and then Mr. Maury tried to back down from repeatin' all that was said; but our commander wouldn't have any such sneakin' as that. 'Repeat every word, sir!' he cried, an' the little midshipman went at it lookin' as if he counted on bein' kicked after it was finished. When all was said, the captain sent his message back, which was this: 'Tell him who sent you that I will be on the mountain before the sun has risen three times, an' then it will be seen which of us is the coward.' The boy went off, though some of the Happars claimed he ought 'er be killed jest for the sake of keepin' their hand in at such work; an' I reckon we'll know mighty soon what it's like to be standin' up against a lot of niggers with nothin' but a musket an' a cutlass to help out."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "would desert her immediately we began to"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I don't reckon him as serves for the roast at one of these 'ere feasts knows very much about what's goin' on, seein's how he's dead an' baked; but it has always struck me that I'd rather have a grave in the ground, than inside one of these 'ere niggers."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do you suppose they eat all who are killed in battle?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It would come to that in the end, lad; though if the fight was a big one, I reckon some of them as were dead would have to be salted down."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I wish we were to get under way to-morrow, instead of going out through that tangle of trees and vines to prove that Captain Porter is no coward,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So do I, lad. I reckon we could refit our ships without doin' very much fightin', an' what little trouble might be necessary could be carried on here in the open, where we sailormen would have a fair show."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Hanging obliquely from his girdle by a loop of sinnate, was a richly decorated pipe; the slender stem was colored with a red pigment, and round it, as well as the idol-bowl, fluttered little streamers of thinnest tappa. But that which was most-remarkable in the appearance of the splendid islander was the elaborate tattooing displayed on every noble limb. All imaginable lines and curves and figures were delineated over his whole body, and in their grotesque variety and infinite profusion I could only compare them to the crowded groupings of quaint patterns we sometimes see in costly pieces of lacework."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I see they've taken the younger sailors, he said to Phil and me as we watched the small body of white men, completely encircled by the fierce-looking savages, march off toward the mountain."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If the captain thinks that a crowd of boys will do the work of men, then I allow he's makin' the mistake of his life."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "After all that's been said against the war, you ought to be well satisfied that you're not called upon to take part,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It makes no difference what I think, when a part of the crew are called out on an expedition like this. It's my right to go with 'em, an' perhaps Captain Porter will come to the conclusion, before this day is ended, that he's made a mistake in puttin' all his dependence on young fellows who haven't had experience enough to steady them!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "With all the afternoon before us, why shouldn't we have a look at what's going on over yonder?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do you mean that we, being clear of such danger because of our duties, shall voluntarily take part in a fight?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm not counting on having anything to do with one, save as spectator, he replied with a laugh."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Mr. Maury has said that the Typee fort is on the second summit, therefore our people have far to go before beginning their work. Now, it wouldn't be such a very hard task for us to climb to the top of this first mountain and there have a full view of all that's being done. A battle between savages must be something fine, and there are few lads who ever had such an opportunity as is ours if we choose to take advantage of it."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm with you, was my reply as I rose quickly to my feet."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Shall we tell Master Hackett what we propose doing?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There's no real need of it, and it would cost us a good half hour's time to go out to the _Essex_ and back. By hurrying up a bit now, we can be down here again before he has knocked off work."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Come on!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We can afford to go around such a barrier as that, I said lazily, as we came to a halt."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The savages, accustomed to such climbing, and in haste to get into position, most likely took the shortest cut."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It can't make much difference to us, Phil said cheerily."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We're not bound for the Typee fort; but only ask for a place where we can see what is being done on the next mountain."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We'd best put back, and try our luck over the boulders!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We've fought our way through this stuff for an hour, and it will take us as long to go back, I said petulantly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It stands to reason that we must come to an end of such work very soon, and we'd better push on, if only to find an easier way of descent."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We're getting out where it will be possible to take our choice of paths! I cried;"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Throw down your weapon, or I'll put a bullet through you."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We haven't any weapons!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come on, lad, we've run upon our sailors!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Where did you come from?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The last port I left was Valparaiso, where you and your friends spent so much time lodging me in jail. I'm stopping on this island just now with the natives who count on wiping your folks out of sight this afternoon, and I had an idea that you two young scoundrels might be picked up in the rear of the sailors, for I knew full well you wouldn't be found in front."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Come up here one at a time and turn your pockets inside out."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What's this for?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I want to make certain you haven't any weapons."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We're willing to give you our word as to that,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'd rather have better proof,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stand around here!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look at me! he said sharply."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Did you count that there wouldn't be a day of reckoning when you left me in jail?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We never thought anything about it, I replied, my anger causing me to appear bold."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You deserved punishment, and should be behind the bars this very moment."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You evidently know very little about Chilian jails, he went on complacently."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Money will buy the freedom of any prisoner who is not accused of murder, and even such an one has been known to escape if he could show gold enough to convince the keepers. As soon as your miserable ships were out of the harbor, I quietly walked away one fine night, for I'd made enough selling Yankees to have a very respectable-sized hoard where no one could get at it but myself."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But how did you chance to be on this island?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I took passage on a craft bound to the Galapagos on a trading voyage. We met heavy weather, and were cast away here. Four came ashore; but three have been roasted, and I'm living on the fat of the land, having shown the king of the Typees that I can be of more service to him alive than dead."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then you knew we were in Nukuheva Bay?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Of course I did, and more than once I've crept near enough the shore to see you lads. I made up my mind that you would soon be where I could work off old scores, and began operations by advising the king to send that message to Captain Porter, knowing he'd come out. I believed you two sneaks would be with the war-party; but on finding you had hung back, like cowards, was on my way to learn where you were."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, what do you propose doing with us now that the plan has worked to your satisfaction?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I count on waiting here till your crew and the Happars have been thoroughly whipped, when I'll take you into the valley and see Typees roast you in proper fashion. I know how it's done, for I saw the three who came on shore with me slaughtered and cooked in fine style. My only trouble is, they'll cut your throats as if you were pigs, and that's too easy a death for those who did what they could to keep me in jail."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It's a bad practice to crow very loudly before you've worked your will. We have more friends on this island than you may claim; and if it so chances that you can turn us over to the cannibals, they will make you suffer."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If the situation was different, my bantam, I'd admit that what you say might turn out true; but your people haven't any idea that Oliver Benson is anywhere except in the jail at Valparaiso, and will set it all down to the account of the Typees. I shouldn't cry very much if a few hundred of them were killed to pay for having eaten you."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How much longer do you count on staying here? There'll be no chance of seeing us roasted, unless you try a hand at the cooking, while we are hidden in this place."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You shall have a chance to travel in due time, so don't grow impatient. I reckon on staying here until the battle is over, and then there won't be any risk, so far as I am concerned, in going across the valley."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look here, Benson, I finally said, speaking as though he was in my power rather than I in his,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If you so much as move a finger, I'll shoot you like curs."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Shoot and have done with it! Phil cried boldly, scuffling his feet and waving his arm to provoke the fellow."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I allow that it's within your power to carry us where we'll be roasted and eaten, therefore the greatest favor you can do is to shoot now without further parley."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Benson is asleep; by leaping upon him suddenly we should be able to get the upper hands, bound though we are."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thought to get the best of me, eh? he asked in a loud voice."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Do you two lads think I'm to be done up like a lamb?"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're going into the valley of the Typees, my fine birds, kick against it as you may; and I shall see you roasted and eaten before eight and forty hours have passed!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I reckon we'll move ahead, he said at length."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You two cubs are to march in front of me; and if you try to kick up any bobbery, I'll put a stop to it by a blow over the head,--such as won't kill outright, but will give a good idea of what's to follow. Step out now, and don't dare to shout! It won't do you any good, and will cost a lot of trouble."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Against the farther wall of the house were arranged in tasteful figures a variety of spears and javelins and other implements of savage warfare. Outside of the habitation, and built upon the piazza-like area in its front, was a little shed used as a sort of larder or pantry, and in which were stored various articles of domestic use and convenience. A few yards from the 'pi-pi' was a large shed built of cocoanut boughs, where the process of preparing the peoo-peoo' was carried on and all culinary operations attended to."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Thinking that if you could get hold of them I might have the worst of it, eh? Well, don't you dare so much as move, else I'll knock in the whole top of your head!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It seems as if every man, woman, and boy had some cause for complaint against the Britisher, and there's no question but that he's feeling uncomfortable in mind. I wonder why they don't set about roasting us?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I reckon Benson has done something they don't like, and he'll be hauled over the coals before anything is done with us,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He's got himself into trouble somehow, Phil said with a chuckle of content,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You lads are to be taken to Nukuheva Bay, if you feel able to walk so far before resting,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Nukuheva Bay! I repeated in astonishment."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you mean that the Typees no longer intend to serve us up as a roast?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The Typees are your friends."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Then how does it happen you reckoned so confidently on our being killed?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The Yankees have beaten them in the battle which was fought this forenoon, and you are to be sent back as a peace offering,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And what about you?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I am in more danger than since the first hour after being cast ashore, when my companions were being killed. If the battle had gone in the Typees' favor, then I should have been praised for bringing you in; but now they make a scapegoat of me, and I stand a good chance of being roasted myself before this scrape is over."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think it will be a very nice ending, Master Benson. When you have satisfied the hunger of these natives, you will probably have done the first really good deed of your life. Besides, it will save you from being hanged."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you ready to go back to Nukuheva Bay now, or would you like to rest a while longer?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We'll go now,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Won't you do good for evil by telling Captain Porter that a white man is here in great danger of being killed? he asked piteously."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Whatever your commander asks now will be granted; and if he sends back such request by those who conduct you, I shall be saved."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You would be brought to Nukuheva Bay, and once there our captain would make you close prisoner."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I care not what he does, so that I am saved from these cannibals."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "An hour ago they were your very good friends; but now you are howling to be taken from them,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "They were my friends, and would be now but for the fact that I advised them to make war against the Yankees and the Happars, assuring them they would whip the whole boiling in a twinkling."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "And now, after trying not only to have us killed, but to bring about the death of all hands, you coax us to save your miserable life!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well, have you two infants got enough of skylarkin'?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Skylarking! If you have any idea we've been enjoying ourselves, it would please me well for you to have a turn at such fun."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Don't wag your tongues about nothin'; but tell me where you've been, an' what you count on doin' with them niggers."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You're to go aboard that the captain may speak with you, an' I reckon them two fellers had better keep close behind."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Can't we speak with the captain in the morning?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not a bit of it. After givin' us all to understand that you'd come to grief, an' bein' the means of havin' half a dozen men trampin' over these bloomin' mountains in search of you, the least to be done is to make a report in proper shape."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "There ain't much of a yarn to it, he replied laughingly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Our men did the most of the business, an' might have worked the traverse alone, accordin' to all accounts. They marched over the mountains, drivin' the Typees before 'em, until comin' to a kind of fort, where it's said no less than four thousand of the niggers made a stand. Then the Yankees an' the 6-pounder got in their work. It wasn't any great shakes of a battle, 'cause it was so soon over. We drove 'em right an' left, an' wound up the business by pullin' the fort apart. I reckon all the natives on this 'ere island think we're the toughest fighters they ever struck. Our people came in about three o'clock, an' since then we've had visits from this gang an' that, all claimin' to be our best friends. When them as have been sent out to search for you get back, they'll be feelin' sore 'cause a couple of worthless infants have caused 'em so much hard labor."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I allow he will, lad, though it seems like a waste of good breath to spend it talkin' about him. Even though we are at war with the Britishers, we can't let one of 'em be roasted an' ate up like a pig; but I'll guarantee the captain will keep the brute carefully caged till we can put him into a stronger prison than is to be found in Chili."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And you believe we should say anything about it to Captain Porter, after Benson did his best to have us roasted and eaten?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I do for a fact, lad. Just at present you're hot against him; but in a month from now you'd be eatin' your heart out if you'd held your tongue when he might 'er been saved."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Tell me all you have done and seen this day,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why didn't you let us stay and hear what was said?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because he'd got through with you. Are you thinkin' a couple of troublesome infants like you can loiter around in the after cabin at your own sweet will?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We might at least have stayed until Captain Porter told us to go,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That's exactly what he did do when he nodded to me. It was jest the same as if he'd said, 'Take 'em away,' an' I did it to save you from a wiggin' such as our captain can give a man with more vim than I ever heard put into it by any one else."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All hands ahoy!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The two natives stayed aboard all night, an' were set ashore less than half an hour before you turned out. Of course I don't know what orders our captain gave them; but I'll wager a doughnut against a dollar that they'll be here again, bringin' the Britisher with 'em, if it so be he's yet alive, before sunset."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What will the men say to being thus careful of a man who admits having made a business of trapping Yankee sailors in order that he may sell them like so many slaves?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I ain't overly certain as to what they'll say; but you can set it down as a fact that never a mother's son of 'em will so much as open his mouth where there's a chance his words may be repeated aft. Captain Porter ain't the kind of a seaman that a crew can afford to monkey with. He'll do as he believes right, no matter what them as sail under him may say."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I reckon we're to make a naval station of this 'ere island; an' if it so be we show our heels to the Britishers who've been sent out to sink us, this will be a likely property to hold in the name of the United States."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If ever it comes my way, I'll do you boys a good turn,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "That is to say, you count on being friendly to us until another chance comes your way of selling us to the whalers, or of seeing us roasted and eaten,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If you'd been in my position since yesterday, you'd know full well that I couldn't be other than thankful for what you have done."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I allow we were in much the same situation when you had us in your keeping, and was determined we should be roasted! the lad said hotly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But for the fact that the Typees got the worst of the battle, we'd be ready for cooking this very minute."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Do you know what your captain counts on doing with me?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "He isn't in the custom of telling the crew what he proposes to do, Phil said curtly;"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Village after village was destroyed until they came to the principal town, in which were fine buildings, a large public square, temples and gods, huge war-canoes, and other exhibitions of half-savage life. These were all reduced to ashes, and by the broom of desolation that beautiful valley, four miles in width and nine in length, was made a blackened desert. The Typees, utterly ruined and humbled, now submissively paid tribute."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It couldn't have been otherwise, he said, when I had emptied my budget of news."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thirty-five white men with ample supply of ammunition could beat off all the natives of the island, providing they were not ambushed. It went without saying that Captain Porter would flog them into submission."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He is below, in such snug quarters that I promise you there is no chance of his escaping."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Will he be taken back to Valparaiso?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I think not, my lad. It is my opinion that he will remain on board until we arrive at the home port, and then be delivered over to the proper authorities. So long as Captain Porter holds command of the _Essex_, there's little chance the young scoundrel will play any more tricks on honest seamen."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is near time for the arrival in the Pacific of one or more of the frigates sent out from England to destroy us. From all I've gathered, an' by puttin' this an' that together when I've overheard the officers talkin' it amounts to considerable, it's our commander's idee to meet the Britishers one by one as fast as they arrive, instead of givin' them a chance to come at us with a squadron after due preparation. We've got to fight our way home, if we ever get there; an' accordin' to my way of thinkin' Captain Porter couldn't do a wiser thing than to meet the enemy as soon as possible after they round the Horn."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why then, Master Hackett?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Because after such a voyage every ship is bound to be at her worst, an' it's our best chance; if we give them time to overhaul an' lay plans, we stand a show to get beaten."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And are we to give up the island after having so much trouble to subdue the Typees?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not a bit of it, if all I've heard be true. Lieutenant Gamble, with midshipmen Feltus an' Clapp, are to remain behind in command of the force detailed for the fort."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "And they are to stay here to keep peace among the natives,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It goes without sayin' that they will keep peace on the island; but that ain't the reason for leavin' 'em here, by a long shot. We'll need a harbor for repairs while we stay in the Pacific, especially after two or three battles at sea, which I reckon will fall to our share. Them as remain behind will see to it that the Britishers don't take possession by some of their whalin' vessels or otherwise, an' we'll have a port to run to if the odds are too great against us."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Bob White of the _Essex Junior_ has been blowin' his gaff so loud that it has come to the ears of our officers, an' all hands will be called up for a wiggin' from the commander before another day goes by, or I'm a Dutchman, which I ain't."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What has he been saying?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That we of the frigate have come to a solemn agreement not to get under way when the order comes; or, if we're forced to do that, we're to seize the ship in three days after leavin' port, an' them on the _Essex Junior_ are to stand by us."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "But all that is a lie! I cried hotly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If there had been a mutiny on board this ship, surely it would have come to the ears of Phil and me!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I allow that some of our youngsters have been makin' foolish talk against puttin' to sea when there's so much fun to be had ashore; but as for downright mutiny, why it's all in your eye, Biddy Martin. I count that the worst insubordination has been argufied in my hearin', an' that only went so far as to swimmin' ashore for a night's frolic. Bob White will find himself in trouble, or I'm mistaken."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can't believe any of you who have braved so many dangers during this most glorious cruise would turn mutineers simply because life on the island is so pleasing. If it should be, however, that you came to such a pass, rather than allow the shame put upon us, I will without hesitation hold a match to the magazine and blow all hands into eternity, for it is better that the ship and every man in her perish, than have it told at home that we were ready to sacrifice the interests of our country to personal desires. While I don't believe it possible such an agreement could have been made, there may be some hot heads among you who do not care for the disgrace which would come upon all this ship's company, therefore I wish to see who will agree to obey my commands in the future as you have in the past. Let those who are ready to do their duty like men, by remaining on board when we go to meet the enemy, step over on the starboard side--I mean those who are not only willing, but eager, to get the good ship _Essex_ under way when the order may be given to do so."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Let Bob White come forward!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "This is the man who has reported that you had not only agreed to disobey orders, but were ready to turn pirates for the sake of spending your lives on the island. He who will spin such yarns about honest sailormen is not fit to associate with them. Mr. McKnight, he added, turning to my cousin Stephen,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Up to this time not a dollar had been drawn to meet the expenses of the frigate. The enemy had furnished provisions, sails, cordage, medicines, guns, anchors, cables, and slops. A considerable amount of pay even, had been given to the officers and men, by means of the money taken in the _Nocton_. Thus far the cruise had been singularly useful and fortunate, affording an instance of the perfection of naval warfare in all that relates to distressing an enemy, with the least possible charge to the assailants; and it remained only to terminate it with a victory over a ship of equal force, to render it brilliant. It is, perhaps, a higher eulogium on the officers and crew of this memorable little frigate to add, that while her good fortune appeared at last to desert her, they gave this character to their enterprise by the manner in which they struggled with adversity."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "You lads haven't made quite as bad a fist of sailorin' as I counted on when you first came aboard, he began."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "You've given good attention to your duties, an' when next you ship, I reckon it should be as ordinary seamen--"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Providing we ever get a chance to ship again, Phil interrupted."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It seems to be the opinion among all hands that we're on our last cruise."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Pay no attention to what those old croakers are sayin', Master Hackett replied quickly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sailormen always borrow trouble when there's little show for it, an' don't take the pains to work out the traverse that can be made. I hold that the 'luck of the _Essex_' is still with her, an' will be when we meet the Britishers yard-arm to yard-arm, or at whatever range our commander believes to be best. No man can go into an engagement an' do his full duty if he counts on bein' knocked out before it's over. Believe that you've _got_ to lick the other fellow, an' then you'll have an advantage."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I did, lad, he replied."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is the captain's orders that you and your mate look after the prisoner, Oliver Benson. He has been cared for by one of Robert White's cronies, and it is believed best to give him in charge of those who have personal reasons for holding him fast, particularly while we are in the harbor of Valparaiso. You'll find him in the brig, and separate rations will be served out for him. See to it that he holds no communication with any of the crew; but allow him to walk about for half an hour every day while you stand guard over him with loaded muskets. In order to render you more careful, lads, I may say that we believe the fellow has some plan for escape in his mind, and you are detailed as his keepers in order that we may be certain of nipping it in the bud."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Have you come to relieve me?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Will you ask Lieutenant McKnight if he expects us both to remain on duty, or may we stand watch and watch?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It ain't likely he counts on two lads at the same time lookin' after one man who's locked in where he can neither help hisself nor hurt others,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "So you two are to look after me?"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is only right we should do so, if for no other reason than to repay you for the care you have had over us on two occasions. We shan't threaten, however, either to sell you to the whalers or make certain you are roasted and eaten; therefore the account won't be really squared however long a time may elapse before we gain a home port."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Home port? he cried as if in dismay."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Am I not to be sent ashore at Valparaiso?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Captain Porter doesn't consider it necessary to tell us all he intends to do; but I'd be willing to wager considerable that you'll remain in this cage until we are anchored in some port of the United States."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why has the guard been changed? Isn't an armed marine enough to keep me here, when it would be impossible to get out unless some one supplied me with the proper tools for prying off the bars?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We know nothing more than that we have been ordered on duty, Phil replied curtly."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If the captain had counted on your understanding fully about the business, I reckon one of the lieutenants would have been here before this to make explanations."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Remember, you are not to remain away more than fifteen minutes,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'll keep my eyes an' ears open, lad, an' it'll be odd if I don't pick up a bit of news here an' there. It goes without sayin' that the captain has good cause for givin' such an order, an' the reason is bound to leak out sooner or later."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Will you come below sometimes and have your smoke with us?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If it so be there are no objections made, I will, lad. It might be a good plan, in case you have a chance of speakin' with Lieutenant McKnight, to ask if I would be allowed there. The rule is that none save the guards are to go near the brig."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "It is your especial duty to see that no one has an opportunity of speaking with the prisoner. It is not supposed that he can escape unaided; there is a possibility some of our people have been taken in by his smooth talk, and the captain is determined he be lodged in prison at a port where we may be certain he will be held."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "There is nothing to prevent his paying you a visit at such times as he is off duty; but if any other member of the crew should come without authority from one of the officers, you are to warn him away at once, and in case he refuses to go immediately, give the alarm aft without delay."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I always believed the Yankees were cowards; but never before fancied the crew of a frigate could be scared by one Englishman."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It is worse than foolish to bandy words with the fellow. We know by his anger that our coming here has broken up some scheme he had in mind, and he may as well be allowed the poor satisfaction of gibing at us now and then."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He may have full swing of his tongue once in a while, but I'm not minded to let him go on as he pleases all the time. While you were on deck he had altogether too much to say. Suppose you let Master Hackett know what Lieutenant McKnight said, and then we'll settle down to the work in shipshape fashion."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "We're now under way for Valparaiso, the old man said,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are you of the mind that they'll make trouble for us?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I ain't reckonin' they'll go quite so far as that, but it'll stand us in hand to be prepared for anything while we're lyin' there."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Why doesn't the captain give that port the go-by? I asked."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why should we put in there if the Chilians are like to be disagreeable to us?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Captain Porter isn't the kind of a man to run away from an enemy, lad, an' that's what it would look like if we tried to slip around the Horn just now. His plan, accordin' to my way of reckonin', an' I've said it before, is to take the Britishers one by one as they come along, until we've given the whole boilin' of 'em a floggin'. If we didn't look in at Valparaiso, the enemy would say we were afraid to tackle anything but a whaler."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How much heavier than our frigate is a 36-gun ship?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "She'd be about the same in weight of metal, though there might be considerable difference in the way it was distributed. Now, a regular 36-gun ship should carry twenty-six long eighteens below, with sixteen 32-pound carronades an' two chase guns above, makin' forty-four in all. We've got, as you know, forty 32-pound carronades, an' six long twelves, which would make the _Phoebe_ heavier than the _Essex_, even though our craft has two guns more. Now, there isn't a man aboard this 'ere frigate who wouldn't kick, an' kick hard, if Captain Porter should try to run away from the Britisher. Give us half a show, an' we'll prove that whalers are only taken by us in order to replenish stores an' protect our own merchantmen."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "That's brave talk; but you'll sing a different tune when we're alongside the _Phoebe_!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I've heard too much talk from him already, the old man continued,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Yes, we're in Valparaiso again, an' now we're salutin' the fort."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The captain will go ashore to chin with the governor accordin' to the rules an' regulations of the navy, an' after that the old chap will visit us."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "But what of a change of heart, Master Hackett? I asked with a laugh."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I thought you counted on our getting a different reception from what we met with last."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "All this visitin' an' firin' salutes don't cut any ice. It's a way these 'ere swells have, no matter how they're feelin'. That puffed up old governor might come aboard of us a dozen times, hobnobbin' with the officers, an' yet be jest as willin' to cut our throats. Wait till the _Phoebe_ heaves in sight, an' then we'll have a fairly good idee of whether they're friendly or not."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Are we lying at our old anchorage?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not a bit of it, my lad. We're well out in the bay, where we can get under way in a jiffy, an' the _Essex Junior_ is cruisin' around outside, so's to give us warnin' when the Britisher heaves in sight."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then the captain is expecting a fight?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Expectin' it, lad? Why, he knows it's got to come! The only thing we're in the dark about is how soon the Britisher will show up."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The British government has been threatenin', I reckon, Master Hackett said with an air of great wisdom,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "We shall have the _Essex Junior_ to help us,"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "What would she amount to in a fight? In an action with a frigate she wouldn't be any force to speak of. A craft carryin' ten 18-pound carronades and ten short sixes, with a crew of only sixty men, would likely be in the way rather than lend any help. No, lad, the _Junior_ ain't to be thought of; an' when we go to quarters, you'll find that she'll get orders to keep at a proper distance, if only for the sake of showin' that we don't put two craft against one. The _Phoebe_ will get fair play, an' no mistake."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How many men can we muster?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "What with prize crews, an' them as have been drafted to the _Junior_, I'm told that there are only two hundred an' twenty-five aboard this 'ere ship, countin' officers, cooks, boys, and sich-like useless raffle."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "How many would likely be on board the _Phoebe_?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "A full hundred more than we've got, an' when it comes to boardin', or close quarters where muskets can be used, that extra hundred will count against us terrible."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Are you growing faint-hearted, Master Hackett?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "An old shellback like me grow faint-hearted? You're talkin' at random, lad! My time is bound to come before many years have passed, an' I only hope to lose the number of my mess while standin' by the guns in a fair fight. A sailorman ain't built to die in his bed, nor does it beseem him to be buried on shore. What he needs to put him out of this world comfortably is the roaring of a broadside, the cheers of his messmates, an' a shot tied to his feet when he's dropped over the rail after havin' done his duty. So that we win the battle, it don't make much difference when I go into the next life; but if you should speak of bein' took prisoner, an' kept cooped up in a cage like that day in an' day out, there's where I might show the white feather, an' small blame to me."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I'm not counting on saying what your chances will be when the _Essex_ meets the _Phoebe_ he began."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Your people may get the best of her--"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "As we surely will!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Very well, say that you whip her handsomely. Do you think it can be done without sacrificing some of your men?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Of course we must expect that more than one poor fellow will lose the number of his mess."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The _Phoebe_ isn't the only ship that's likely been sent out against you; and even though you whip the first two or three you come across, the time must arrive when you'll be too short-handed to work the frigate. In other words, no matter how successful your ship may be, you're bound to come to grief finally."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Why should you figure on our meeting vessel after vessel until we no longer have a crew left?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Because it proves that in the long run I shall be set free by my countrymen, and then will come the time when I'll have the upper hand once more."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Well?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well? he said with a laugh."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "To save your own neck, why not make friends with me now? It isn't to be expected that you could set me ashore; but you might leave the door unlocked by accident, and when the time came that you were in the brig of a British man-of-war, I would do you a good turn."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Look you, Oliver Benson! I cried, speaking slowly that the words would have more weight."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "If I knew beyond a peradventure that I might save my own life by doing the wicked thing you propose, I would say 'no' with my last breath. If you so much as hint at such a proposition again I will go straight to the captain with the story, and then you may be certain he'll give you a taste of the cat."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "My turn will come before the _Essex_ is out of this scrape, and of that there is no doubt,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Sand on the deck?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ay, so that the planks shall not be slippery when covered with the blood of our men. I am told that it is always strewn around before a ship goes into action."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The enemy are in the offin' at last!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Can we see them from the deck?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "No, lad, not yet: but the _Junior_ is headin' for the harbor with signals set that she has sighted the enemy, an' it won't be very long now before we'll be showin' the _Phoebe_ what we're made of!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The _Junior_ is close alongside with her anchors down, and Lieutenant Downes is with Captain Porter, most likely getting orders as to how his ship is to be handled during the engagement."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Can you see the Britisher?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Not yet; the boat's crew which brought the lieutenant on board says that they should be off the harbor in an hour at the longest."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ay, two, so it's reported, and Master Hackett says we'll tackle all that come, even if it's a whole squadron."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He is talking foolishly! I cried petulantly."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "It isn't reasonable to suppose our commander will take any more chances than are absolutely necessary."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I can't say what he may do; but our people are wild with excitement, and if the decision was left to them I doubt not but that Master Hackett's statement would sound less improbable. Go on deck and have a look around; but give me a chance when the Britishers heave in sight."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Well, lads, your disagreeable work has come to an end for a time at least, and I can't fancy that you'll be sorry."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "The prisoner will be sent on board the _Junior_ for a while."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "May I ask why, sir?"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Because it would not be quite the proper treatment to keep him under fire. As soon as Lieutenant Downes comes on deck again some of our men will be sent below to iron the fellow and bring him on deck for transshipment."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I wonder if the fighting will be done while we lay at anchor?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Certainly not. In the first place, Master Hackett says it is against all the rules for ships to fight in a harbor belonging to a nation with which we are not at war. Then again, it is necessary to manoeuvre the frigate while the fighting is going on, and to do that she must be on the open ocean."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I see no signs of our getting under way."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Then you must be blind indeed! Notice the men; each is at his proper station, and on the gun-deck the ammunition has already been brought out. Perhaps they have sanded the decks."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "They've taken on extra metal to meet us, the old sailor said with a chuckle, as if such fact pleased him wonderfully."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Thirty long eighteens, sixteen 32-pound carronades, one howitzer, an' six 3-pounders in her tops. That's givin' us the credit of bein' good fighters, even though they do accuse us of not darin' to tackle anything but whalers."
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Did you ever see the other ship, Master Hackett?"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Ay, lad, time and time again. She's the _Cherub_, a 20-gun ship; but now she's carryin' twenty-eight in all--eighteen 32-pound carronades below, with eight 24-pound carronades and two long nines above. There can't be less than two hundred men on board, an' take it all in all, we've got a decently tough job laid out for us; but we'll tackle it in great style, lad. Why, the fact that the Britishers don't care to meet us with such a frigate as the _Phoebe_ alone, is enough to stiffen the backbone of every man jack belongin' to this 'ere craft."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If you foul us, sir, Captain Porter cried,"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I certainly do not meditate making an attack, my dear sir,"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "He'll take us if he gets into position, an' now's the time when our captain should give him somethin' more'n soft talk. If I was in command of this 'ere frigate I'd sink him off-hand."
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Now we're in for it, lad! Master Hackett cried gleefully as he ran to his station, I following close by his side."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "The Britisher counts on havin' a scrimmage whether we're in a neutral port or not, an' I reckon we're in the mood to give him all he wants!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "I do not intend to board you, sir!"
}
]
|
43766 | Unknown Title | Unknown Author | [
{
"from": "human",
"value": "If your ship fouls this frigate, sir, I shall open upon you, for I am fully prepared for action!"
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "I do not intend to board you, sir!"
},
{
"from": "human",
"value": "Stand ready, boarders! Captain Porter shouted, giving no further heed to the Britisher's announcement."
},
{
"from": "gpt",
"value": "Get away the instant she touches us, and once on her decks you know your duty!"
}
]
|
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