"Do you blame him?" said Kate. "I don't. But at the same time I'm afraid Mokki factory can't wait each time till Captain Image brings the M'poso on her round trips from Liverpool. However, I sent a canoe off this morning with a long cable which may ease matters."
"You sent off a canoe? I don't know how I shall get on without her crew."
"Oh, I remembered how shorthanded you are, Mr. Manager, but I've not piled more work onto you this time. You recollect that tall Haûsa merchant with the one eye who has been here for the last two days?"
"Yes, Rotata."
"I gave him the cable, and an order on Mr. Burgoyne for £15, to be paid on delivery. Will you O.K. the account?"
"I guess," said Carter shortly, "that you are boss. But if you'd told me you wanted to send a cable, I could have arranged it for you."
Kate looked at him steadily. "Why do you object to my working for myself, Mr. Carter?"
"Because I prefer to work for you. I'd work myself to the bone for you, if you'd let me."
"Why should you?"
"Because I—well, it's natural enough, isn't it? If you come to think of it, I am your paid employee."