“I shall not give way then.”
“Refuse to obey the Commander’s orders?”
“In this case—yes.”
“On what grounds?”
“That depends. If it is to be in any way a personal matter I have my explanation. If the Commander makes it a Service point—strictly a question of discipline—his definite orders refused: well then, Aggett, I take it to the Captain.”
“A real sea-lawyer, eh?” said Aggett. “It’s pig-headed drivel. And, you mark my words—it won’t do any good. If you take that stand you may avoid this beatin’, but the Commander won’t forget it, and the Captain won’t forget it.”
“As a point of fact,” Hartington said, “this is all heroics. The contingency won’t arise. This matter will not be taken to the Commander.”
Aggett grinned. “Then I send Lynwood to you again?”
“No. That isn’t what I meant. I am not giving way. But I think it’s as well we should understand each other. Sit down, will you?”
“I prefer to stand. And no sort of compromise’ll do for me—see?”