w his courage with his breeding, be upon deck--

Well, and suppose he is!--Why then I hope it is easy for Ganmore, or any
body else, myself suppose in my pea-jacket and great watch coat, (if any
other make scruple to do it), while he stands in the way, gaping and
staring like a novice, to stumble against him, and push him overboard!
--A rich thought--is it not, Belford?--He is certainly plaguy officious
in the ladies' correspondence; and I am informed, plays double between
mother and daughter, in fear of both.--Dost not see him, Jack?--I do--
popping up and down, his wig and hat floating by him; and paddling,
pawing, and dashing, like a frighted mongrel--I am afraid he never
ventured to learn to swim.

But thou wilt not drown the poor fellow; wilt thou?

No, no!--that is not necessary to the project--I hate to do mischiefs
supererogatory. The skiff shall be ready to save him, while the vessel
keeps its course: he shall be set on shore with the loss of wig and hat
only, and of half his little wits, at the place where he embarked, or any
where else.

Well, but shall we not be in danger of being hanged for three such
enormous rapes, although Hickman should escape with only a bellyful of
sea-water?

Yes, to be sure, when caught--But is there any likelihood of that?--
Besides, have we not been in danger before now for worse facts? and what
is there in being only in danger?--If we actually were to appear in open
day in England before matters are made up, there will be greater
likelihood that these women will not prosecute that they will.--For my
own part, I should wish they may. Would not a brave fellow choose to
appear in court to such an arraignment, confronting women who would do
credit to his attempt? The country is more merciful in these cases, than
in any others: I should therefore like to put myself upon my country.

Let me indulge in a few reflections upon what thou mayest think the worst
that can happen. I will suppose that thou art one of us; and that all
five are actually brought to trial on this occasion: how bravely shall we
enter a court, I at the head of you, dressed out each man, as if to his
wedding appearance!--You are sure of all the women, old and young, of
your side.--What brave fellows!--what fine gentlemen!--There goes a
charming handsome man!--meaning me, to be sure!--who could find in their
hearts to hang such a gentleman as that? whispers one lady, sitting
perhaps on the right hand of the r