Burns had taken Schwartz's place as
second mate, but the situation was clearly beyond him. Turner's
condition was known and frankly discussed. It was clear that, for
a time at least, we would have to get along without him.
Charlie Jones, always an influence among the men, voiced the
situation as we all stood together in the chill morning air:
"What we want to do, boys," he said, "is to make for the nearest
port. This here is a police matter."
"And a hanging matter," someone else put in.
"We've got to remember, boys, that this ain't like a crime on land.
We've got the fellow that did it. He's on the boat all right."
There was a stirring among the men, and some of them looked aft to
where, guarded by the Swede Oleson, Singleton was sitting, his head
in his hands.
"And, what's more," Charlie Jones went on, "I'm for putting Leslie
here in charge--for now, anyhow. That's agreeable to you, is it,
Burns?"
"But I don't know anything about a ship," I objected. "I'm willing
enough, but I'm not competent."
I believe the thing had been discussed before I went up, for
McNamara spoke up from the wheel.
"We'll manage that somehow or other, Leslie," he said. "We want
somebody to take charge, somebody with a head, that's all. And
since you ain't, in a manner of speaking, been one of us, nobody's
feelings can't be hurt.
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