The Madness of Mr. Lister Captains All, Book 9.

"The Madness of Mr. Lister" by W. W. Jacobs is a humorous short story about Jem Lister, an old sailor who is known for being both a heavy drinker and incredibly stingy. His life takes a turn when he befriends the ship's new cook, who actually admires Lister's frugality. Lister reveals he's leaving his money in a will to the cook, which causes the cook to worry about Lister's failing health and jokingly suggest helping him pass on. This innocent, yet morbid humor spirals out of control when everyone thinks Lister has lost his mind. The tension builds to a funny end as the cook rushes to save Lister from the captain, causing a whirlwind of misinterpretations highlighting the ridiculous situation and their surprising, developing friendship.