'No thank you,' said Hornblower. His empty stomach revolted at the idea of pouring spirits into it.
'The others will be there before us,' commented Preston. 'I saw the quarter boat heading back just before we reached the jetty.'
The etiquette of the duel demanded that the two opponents should reach the ground separately; but only one boat would be necessary for the return.
'The sawbones is with them,' said Danvers. 'Though God knows what use he thinks he'll be to-day.'
He sniggered, and with overlate politeness tried to cut his snigger off short.
'How are you feeling, Hornblower?' asked Preston.
'Well enough,' said Hornblower, forbearing to add that he only felt well enough while this kind of conversation was not being carried on.
The hackney coach levelled itself off as it came over the crest of the hill, and stopped beside the common. Another coach stood there waiting, its single candle-lamp burning yellow in the growing dawn.
'There they are,' said Preston; the faint light revealed a shadowy group standing on frosty turf among the gorse bushes.
Hornblower, as they approached, caught a glimpse of Simpson's face as he stood a little detached from the others. It was pale, and Hornblower noticed that at that moment he swallowed nervously, just as he himself was doing. Masters came towards them, shooting his usual keen inquisitive look at Hornblower as they came together.