“I’m as strongly against the system as you are, sir.”
“That settles the matter, then, for one ship among hundreds. Good-night.”
“Good-night, sir.”
Hartington walked towards the door. Because a question in his mind remained unanswered he hesitated visibly.
“What is it?” the Captain asked. “Another ‘cause’ to baffle us?”
“There was a question, sir.”
“Yes?”
“You spoke—twice—of the forces behind the Service. I was wondering, sir——”
The Captain shook his head. “No, Hartington; we haven’t time to try to unravel that mesh. Besides, it savours of politics, which are not for naval officers. I have said enough already this evening—perhaps too much unless you are discreet. Good-night, again.”