He turned away abruptly and with a "Very well," hurried onwards. But
as he went slowly out, crossed the forward deck, mounted the
companionway to the upper deck, and continued still upwards to the
bridge, where he could see the captain standing, the glass at his eyes,
his thoughts were busy, and they were not pleasant thoughts, you may be
sure.
Captain Hosmer seemed too absorbed in something he was examining
through his binocular to notice him, however, and just as Allyne,
somewhat reluctantly, spoke his name, the watch sang out,
"Sail on the port bow, sir."
"Is she anchored, or drifting, Ferris?" called back the captain.
"Drifting, I think, sir. Should judge it's a wreck."
"We must alter our course and make for her then," he said, turning to
the steersman. Then, with a swift look at Allyne who stood a step
below waiting,
"Anything particular, sir?"
"Only a word to explain--"
"Last night? Well," sternly, "what excuse have you to make?"
Allyne shrugged his shoulders.
"I was not myself, sir. Your champagne was too heady."
"H'm! 'Twas made for men, I reckon. You did not exactly act the part
of one, it seems to me. Her Majesty's officials ought to have at least
the manners of a gentleman."
"You are hard on me, Captain Hosmer!"
"A man is apt to be hard where his daughters are lightly treated."
"I came to apologize. Do you wish me to see the young ladies in
person?"
"By no means! Keep as far from them as possible is all I ask.
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