“No, sir,” I said; “but I will.”
“Oh, very well. Here, Mr Barkins, Mr Smith; do you feel well enough to go in my boat?”
“Yes, sir,” they cried together eagerly.
“Jump in, then.”
“Thank you, sir,” cried Smith, and he mounted into the first boat; but Barkins hesitated a moment.
“Thank you, old chap,” he whispered, “but I don’t like to go.”
“Off with you,” I said, and I hurried him forward. “Shall I give you a leg up?” I added, for he limped a good deal still.
“No, no; I don’t want to let them see I’m lame. But I say, Gnat, you go.”
“Be off,” I whispered. “Quick!” and I helped him in.
“Here, Ching, you had better go in the second boat,” said Mr Reardon sharply; and, as the Chinaman rolled out of the first boat, blinking and smiling, orders were given to lower away, and the first boat kissed the water.