"Then he was influenced by private motives rather than public spirit," observed Ludlam, who was fond of speaking the truth, even though it might be unpalatable to his hearers. "Still, Oswald, I am sorry you are hurt, and hope that you will be wiser in future." "I shall always be found ready to defend my own rights whether against my equals or plebeians," answered Lord Reginald, haughtily. "I consider that I acted properly, and do not require to be pitied by you or any other person, merely because I happen to get an inconvenient blow on the arm." "Mayn't any one else pity you?" asked Tommy Shackel, the smallest midshipman on board, who was apt to take a malicious pleasure in seeing his seniors have a scrimmage among each other. "Hold your tongue, Master Jackanapes!" exclaimed Voules; "Oswald knows best what he likes and dislikes." "I only asked a question," said Tommy, in his squeaky voice; "and I put it to Oswald, and not to you." "How dare you speak to me in that fashion?" exclaimed Voules, about to give the small midshipman a box on the ear. "You'd better let him alone!" cried Paddy Logan, jumping up. "I appeal to Ludlam, who allows no bullying in the berth. Because you have had the honour of staying at Elverston Hall, you fancy you can exhibit your airs to us, but you are mistaken, my boy, as much as Oswald was when he first joined." Voules retorted, and Paddy and he would soon have come to blows, had not Ludlam interfered, and by the exercise of the authority he maintained in the berth, restored order. This scene took place on the first evening that the members of the berth all met together.