Frederick Marryat

“ The seamen paused—they were ready to fight for their country, but not to be killed by or kill those who were their own countrymen, and who were doing exactly what they would have done themselves. The lieutenant thought otherwise; he was exasperated at this sensation.
"You black scoundrel, I left you out because I thought you not worth having, but now I'll add you to the number."
"Stop a little," replied Mesty.
The lieutenant would not take the Ashantee's very prudent advice; he flew forward to seize Mesty, who, striking him a blow with the flat of his sabre, almost levelled him to the deck. ”

“ At any point of sailing they may come up with the prizes, but can do nothing with them."
"No, the boats which boarded them are already returned to the frigate; she must wait for them, and that will give us a start, and it will be night before they can make sail."
"Fire a gun for the prizes to close," said Jack; "we will put the men on board again, and then be off to Palermo as fast as we can."
"We can do no better," said Oxbelly. "If ever I chance to meet that fellow again, I will trouble him to repeat his words. ”

“ I don't know that; men must be had for his Majesty's service somehow. It's not their fault, Mr Easy—the navy must be manned, and as things are so, so things must be. It's the king's prerogative, Mr Easy, and we cannot fight the battles of the country without it. ”