“Then why didn’t you wait till he came back?”
“Because, sir, please sir, Mr Wilson’s always cross when he has been out to dine. He’s not like you, sir.”
The captain started up in his chair, and gazed full in the lad’s face.
“You’re a nice boy, Roberts,” he said; “but don’t you try any of that impudent flattery on with me again.”
“No, sir. I beg pardon, sir, but may I go?”
“Wait till the first lieutenant comes back, sir, and ask him.”
“But please, sir, it’s important.”
“What is?”
“That I should have leave to-morrow, sir.”
“Where are you going, then?”