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Chapter 21

The Attack As soon as Silver disappeared, the captain, who had been closely watching him, turned towards the interior of the house and found not a man of us at his post but Gray. It was the first time we had ever seen him angry. Quarters! he roared. And then, as we all slunk back to our places, Gray, he said, Ill put your name in the log; youve stood by your duty like a seaman. Mr. Trelawney, Im surprised at you, sir. Doctor, I thought you had worn the kings coat! If that was how you served at Fontenoy, sir, youd have been better in your berth. The doctors watch were all back at their loopholes, the rest were busy loading the spare muskets, and everyone with a red face, you may be certain, and a flea in his ear, as the saying is. The captain looked on for a while in silence. Then he spoke. My lads, said he, Ive given Silver a broadside. I pitched it in red-hot on purpose; and before the hours out, as he said, we shall be boarded. Were outnumbered, I neednt tell you that, but we fight in shelter; and a minute ago I should have said we fought with discipline. Ive no manner of doubt that we can drub them, if you choose. Then he went the rounds and saw, as he said, that all was clear.