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- 2026-01-30T20:48:15.149Z
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- 5661
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- I shall never forget his look of wonder when his interesting wards
filed in at the doorway, and took up a seat directly facing him.
Service over, we waited outside in hopes of seeing more of him; but
sorely annoyed at the sight of us, he reconnoitred from the window, and
never came forth until we had started for home.
CHAPTER XLI.
WE LEVY CONTRIBUTIONS ON THE SHIPPING
Scarcely a week went by after the Julia’s sailing, when, with the
proverbial restlessness of sailors, some of the men began to grow weary
of the Calabooza Beretanee, and resolved to go boldly among the vessels
in the bay, and offer to ship.
The thing was tried; but though strongly recommended by the commodore
of the beachcombers, in the end they were invariably told by the
captains to whom they applied that they bore an equivocal character
ashore, and would not answer. So often were they repulsed that we
pretty nearly gave up all thoughts of leaving the island in this way;
and growing domestic again, settled down quietly at Captain Bob’s.
It was about this time that the whaling-ships, which have their regular
seasons for cruising, began to arrive at Papeetee; and of course their
crews frequently visited us. This is customary all over the Pacific. No
sailor steps ashore, but he straightway goes to the “Calabooza,” where
he is almost sure to find some poor fellow or other in confinement for
desertion, or alleged mutiny, or something of that sort. Sympathy is
proffered, and if need be, tobacco. The latter, however, is most in
request; as a solace to the captive, it is invaluable.
Having fairly carried the day against both consul and captain, we were
objects of even more than ordinary interest to these philanthropists;
and they always cordially applauded our conduct. Besides, they
invariably brought along something in the way of refreshments;
occasionally smuggling in a little Pisco. Upon one occasion, when there
was quite a number present, a calabash was passed round, and a
pecuniary collection taken up for our benefit.
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