The young sailor gave a look to see that his orders were promptly and accurately obeyed, and then turned again to the owner.
   “And how did this misfortune occur?” inquired the latter, resuming the interrupted conversation.
   “Alas, sir, in the most unexpected manner. After a long talk with the harbor-master, Captain Leclere left Naples greatly disturbed in mind. In twenty-four hours he was attacked by a fever, and died three days afterwards.
   “We performed the usual burial service, and he is at his rest, sewn up in his hammock with a thirty-six-pound shot at his head and his heels, off Del Giglio island. We bring to his widow his sword and cross of honor. It was worth while, truly,” added the young man with a melancholy smile, “to make war against the English for ten years, and to die in his bed at last, like everybody else.”
   “Why, you see, Edmond,” replied the owner, who appeared more comforted at every moment, “we are all mortal, and the old must make way for the young. If not, why, there would be no promotion; and since you assure me that the cargo...”
   “Is all safe and sound, M. Morrel, take my word for it; and I advise you not to take 25,000 francs for the profits of the voyage.”
   Then, as they were just passing the Round Tower, the young man shouted: “Stand by there to lower the topsails and jib; brail up the spanker!”

The Vocabulary

hammock n. 吊床
shot n. 子弹，铅球
melancholy adj. 忧沉的，使人悲伤的
brail vt. 用卷帆索卷帆
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修改:easior FROM 103.40.221.*
FROM 103.40.221.*