The Salving of the "Fusi Yama": A Post-War Story of the Sea

Illustrated by E. S. Hodgson
BLACKIE AND SON LIMITED LONDON GLASGOW AND BOMBAY

And how do you like being out of harness, old top? inquired Jack Villiers.
The old top , otherwise Bobby Beverley, late Sub-Lieutenant of the Motor Boat Reserve, squared his shoulders and thrust his hands deeply into the pockets of a well-worn salt-stained monkey-jacket.
Candidly, dear old thing, I don't like it one little bit, he replied. A fish out of water isn't in it.
I believe that's an undisputed fact, interrupted the other.
And I jolly well begin to realize it, continued Beverley with conviction. There are thousands in the same boat, but that doesn't alter my position. Fact remains, I see rocks ahead.
Is that so? inquired Villiers seriously. What is it? Short of the ready?
Beverley shook his head.
Not that, he replied, with the confidence that a Service man will display when discussing financial matters with a brother-officer. I've been careful, after a fashion, and there's my gratuity, and a bit of prize-money when that comes along. Enough to carry on with for a bit; but, hang it all, what's a fellow to do? I don't like the idea of taking on a job in an office. When you've been in charge of a crew for the last three years, you don't like knuckling under and being bossed; you know what I mean.