The little maid speedily
became a general pet on board the Serpent, and was soon the proud
possessor of several models of ships, two patchwork quilts, several
carved tobacco boxes, and other specimens of sailors' handiwork. Small
as she was, she had evidently a strong idea of her own importance,
and received these presents and attentions with a pretty air of
dignity which at once earned for her the title of the Princess.
On the second day after the accident, the chief's boat came off
from the shore, the damage having been speedily and neatly repaired.
Little Bahi stood on the top of the accommodation ladder as they
approached, and addressed them with great asperity, using much
gesticulation with her arms.
"What is she saying, Soh Hay?" Dick Balderson asked.
"She is telling them that they are bad men to let the boat be
run down; that she is very angry with them, and they will all be
punished."
'The men looked very crestfallen under their little mistress'
reproaches, and held up their hands in a deprecating manner; while
the helmsman stood up and, after salaaming deeply, entered upon a
long explanation, which ended in his asking if he might come on board
to see his chief. Permission was at once granted by the captain,
upon the request being interpreted to him.
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