“But what about the deck, Mr. Hornblower?” asked Roberts.
“A hand can swab it off in two minutes, sir,” replied Hornblower, wiping his face and looking at the blue sea overside with a longing that was obvious to the most casual glance. “I have fifteen minutes before I relieve you, sir—plenty of time.”
“Oh, very well, Mr. Hornblower.”
“Thank you, sir,” said Hornblower, and he turned eagerly away with another touch of his hat, while Roberts and Bush exchanged glances which were as much amused as puzzled. They watched Hornblower give his orders.
“Captain of the waist! Captain of the waist, there!”
“Sir?”
“Get the washdeck pump rigged at once.”
“Rig the washdeck pump, sir?”
“Yes. Four men for the handles. One for the hose. Jump to it, now. I’ll be with you in two minutes.”
“Aye aye, sir.”