"About six months before Sanders left," replied Hamilton in surprise; "just why do you ask?"
"Nothing, sir," said Bones, and whistled light-heartedly. Then he returned to the subject.
"I only asked you because I thought the enamel work in the cabin and all that sort of thing has worn very well."
"Yes, it is good wearing stuff," said Hamilton.
"That green paint in the bathroom is rather chic, isn't it? Is that good wearing stuff?"
"The enamel?" smiled Hamilton. "Yes, I believe that is very good wearing. I am not a whale on domestic matters, Bones, but I should imagine that it would last for another year without showing any sign of wear."
"Is it waterproof at all?" asked Bones, after another pause.
"What do you mean?"
"I mean would it wash off if a lot of water were applied to it?"
"No, I should not imagine it would," said Hamilton, "what makes you ask?"