 transmitted by
the hands of Hatchway, who had orders to bring the delinquent along with him to
the garrison.
 
        Heark ye, child,
            You need not bring your fine speeches to bear upon me. You only
        expend your ammunition to no purpose. Your aunt told you nothing but
        truth; for it is always fair and honest to be above board, d'ye see. I
        am informed as how you are in chace of a painted galley, which will
        decoy you upon the flats of destruction, unless you keep a better
        look-out and a surer reckoning than you have hitherto done; and I have
        sent Jack Hatchway to see how the land lies, and warn you of your
        danger: if so be as you will put about ship, and let him steer you into
        this harbour, you shall meet with a safe birth and friendly reception;
        but if you refuse to alter your course, you cannot expect any further
        assistance from yours, as you behave,
                                                                 HAWSER TRUNNION
 
Peregrine was equally piqued and disconcerted at the receit of this letter,
which was quite different from what he had expected, and declared in a resolute
tone to the lieutenant, who brought it, that he might return as soon as he
pleased; for he was determined to consult his own inclination, and remain for
some time longer where he was.
    Hatchway endeavoured to persuade him by all the arguments which his sagacity
and friendship could supply, to shew a little more deference for the desire of
the old man, who was by this time rendered fretful and peevish by the gout,
which now hindered him from enjoying himself as usual, and who might, in his
passion, take some step very much to the detriment of the young gentleman, whom
he had hitherto considered as his own son. Among other remonstrances, Jack
observed that mayhap Peregrine had got under Emilia's hatches, and did not
choose to set her adrift; and if that was the case, he himself would take charge
of the vessel, and see her cargo safely delivered; for he had a respect for the
young woman, and his needle pointed towards matrimony; and as, in all
probability, she could not be much the worse for the wear, he would make shift
to scud thro' life with her under an easy sail.
    Our lover was deaf to all his admonitions, and having thanked him for this
last instance of his complaisance, repeated his resolution of adhering to his
first purpose. Hatchway having profited so little by mild exhortations, assumed
a more peremptory aspect, and plainly told him he neither could nor would go
home without him;
