The
elder possessed a good deal of spare money, and could influence several
business friends into investing heavily. It was George Melville's habit
to acquire control, gradually, of any business in which he invested
heavily. He had wonderful skill in that line of conduct, and combined
much tact with it. Mr. Melville, going into a new business, and
contributing capital heavily, was accustomed to securing whole control
of the business before his associates quite realized what was happening.
Now, as this capitalist climbed up the side and stood on the platform
deck, looking about him, he began to picture himself as selling a fleet
of such boats--all of them practically his--to the Government.
"Not much of a place, this deck, to stand on and handle a vessel through
rough weather?" he inquired, looking sharply at Mr. Farnum.
"No," admitted the builder, adding with a smile: "Of course, it takes
the cream of our seafaring men to travel in such craft, anyway. Such
men can stand discomfort and any amount of danger, at need. Ask Captain
Benson."
Young Captain Jack smiled quietly. He and his two comrades guessed that
George Melville was one of the capitalists whom Farnum was trying to
interest in the business.
"Let us go below," suggested Mr. Melville. "Don, use your eyes to good
advantage. You may have need of all you can learn about such boats."
Don Melville inclined his head, but said nothing.
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