“Promotion. I never saw such favouritism. Always being sent for to the skipper’s cabin. I wonder Reardon stands it.”
“Don’t talk nonsense,” I cried. “Phew, isn’t it hot?”
“Yes, for us. Regular prisoners, while you have all the fun—”
“Of being roasted, and then stoned by the Chinese.”
“That’s right,” said Smith sulkily, “make as little as you can of it. Did the skipper consult you about our next movement?”
“He gave me a good bullying for not having the boat ready when he wanted to come on board.”
“Was that why you went in the cabin?” cried Barkins.
“Of course.”
“Oh then, if that’s the case, we’ll let you off. Eh, Blacksmith?”
“Well, I suppose so.”