top-mate

Updated: August 4, 2024

Now, this theory about the wondrous influence of habitual sights and sounds upon the human temper, was suggested by my experiences on board our frigate. And al-though I regard the example furnished by our quarter-gunners especially him who had once been our top-mate as by far the strongest argument in favour of the general theory; yet, the entire ship abounded with illustrations of its truth.

Herman Melville - White Jacket: or, the World on a Man-of-War

Now, there can be little doubt, that their being so much among the guns is the very thing that makes a gunner's gang so cross and quarrelsome. Indeed, this was once proved to the satisfaction of our whole company of main-top-men. A fine top-mate of ours, a most merry and companionable fellow, chanced to be promoted to a quarter-gunner's berth.

Herman Melville - White Jacket: or, the World on a Man-of-War

There was a seaman belonging to the fore-top a mess-mate, though not a top-mate of mine, and no favourite of the Captain's, who, for certain venial transgressions, had been prohibited from going ashore on liberty when the ship's company went.

Herman Melville - White Jacket: or, the World on a Man-of-War

"By Heaven!" thrillingly whispered Jack Chase, who stood by, "it's only a halter; I'll strike him!" "Better not," said a top-mate; "it's death, or worse punishment, remember." "There goes the lash!" cried Jack. "Look at the old man! By G -d, I can't stand it! Let me go, men!" and with moist eyes Jack forced his way to one side.

Herman Melville - White Jacket: or, the World on a Man-of-War

No; I told my good top-mate to go away with his four thumbs, I would have nothing to do with them; two thumbs were enough for any man. For some time after completing my jacket, and getting the furniture and household stores in it; I thought that nothing could exceed it for convenience.

Herman Melville - White Jacket: or, the World on a Man-of-War