XXXII
There was a certain amount of bustle going on. The yacht had found an anchorage. The small launch had been let down. A steward handed over a lunch basket to Jones, who was "willing" hard to be taken along. Men moved at the double in the execution of their duties. The first officer stood by with a watchful eye. He had made a small bet with Jones that he would be left behind.
It was midday and very warm. There was not enough wind to tease a curl. When Beatrix appeared, in the fewest possible clothes, she was followed by the stewardess carrying a sort of mackintosh bag in which were a bathing dress, a tin of powder, a brush and comb, and so forth.
"Back about five," said Franklin.
The first officer saluted. "Very good, sir. Keep an eye on the weather. It looks like a change to me."
"All right."
Franklin got into the launch and handed Beatrix aboard. "You're taking a coat, aren't you?"
"No," said Beatrix. "Why? It's lovely and warm."
"I'd like you to."
She smiled up at him and shook her head. She held the cards now.