“No, old chap, of course not,” cried Murray, thrusting his arm beneath his companion’s. “I’ll do all that. But you must come now. Don’t let’s keep Tom May waiting any longer.”
“But I tell you that—”
“Hush! Hold your tongue. Here’s Anderson coming.”
“Well, young gentlemen,” said that officer, coming up sharply, “have you asked the captain?”
“Yes, sir, and he said that he would give us leave, but that he should prefer for us to ask your permission.”
“That’s right, my lads; quite right,” said the first lieutenant, speaking quite blandly now. “You’d better start at once, for I don’t think this calm is going to last. Who is going to help you?”
“Tom May, sir.”
“Oh yes, I see. A very good trustworthy man. Mind, we shall expect some fish for dinner.”
“He’s a humbug, that’s what he is,” said Roberts angrily. “Blowing hot and cold with the same breath. I’ve a good mind to—”
“Come and have the first try? And so you shall, old chap. Look alive! We must get a good dish now, and for the lads too.”