ould not say it. But as to all the rest, no better than the viol-block
or the geer-capstan. Religion I han't much overhauled; and we tars laugh
at your polite conversation, thof, mayhap, we can chaunt a few ballads to
keep the hands awake in the night watch; then for chastity, brother, I
doubt that's not expected in a sailor just come ashore, after a long
voyage--sure all those poor hearts won't be d--ned for steering in the
wake of nature. As for a sweetheart, Bet Mizen of St. Catherine's would
fit me to a hair--she and I are old messmates; and what signifies
talking, brother, she knows already the trim of my vessel, d'ye see." He
concluded with saying, he thought he wa'n't too old to learn; and if Sir
Launcelot would take him in tow as his tender, he would stand by him all
weathers, and it should not cost his consort a farthing's expense.

The knight said, he did not think himself of consequence enough to have
such a pupil, but should always be ready to give him his best advice; as
a specimen of which, he exhorted him to weigh all the circumstances, and
deliberate calmly and leisurely, before he actually engaged in such a
boisterous profession; assuring him, that if, at the end of three months,
his resolution should continue, he would take upon himself the office of
his instructor. In the meantime he gratified the hostess for his
lodging, put on his armour, took leave of the company, and, mounting
Bronzomarte, proceeded southerly, being attended by his squire Crabshaw,
grumbling, on the back of Gilbert.

CHAPTER EIGHT

WHICH IS WITHIN A HAIR'S-BREADTH OF PROVING HIGHLY INTERESTING.

Leaving Captain Crowe and his nephew for the present, though they, and
even the misanthrope, will reappear in due season, we are now obliged to
attend the progress of the knight, who proceeded in a southerly
direction, insensible of the storm that blew, as well as of the darkness,
which was horrible. For some time, Crabshaw ejaculated curses in
silence; till at length his anger gave way to his fear, which waxed so
strong upon him, that he could no longer resist the desire of alleviating
it, by entering into a conversation with his master. By way of
introduction, he gave Gilbert the spur, directing him towards the flank
of Bronzomarte, which he encountered with such a shock, that the knight
was almost dismounted.

When Sir Launcelot, with some warmth, asked the reason of this attack,
the squire replied in these words: "Th