“Yes, that’s quite right, Miss Denning,” I said cheerfully.
“But this terrible storm; shall we be wrecked?”
“Ships don’t get wrecked out in the open sea,” I replied coolly, “only have their sails blown away, and sometimes lose a spar, or get a boat torn off the davits.”
“Then you think we are safe?”
“Oh yes, I hope so,” I replied.
“Safe? Of course, darling little cowardly sis,” said Mr Denning, kissing her pale cheek very lovingly, and I felt that I had never liked him so well before, never having seen his true nature and affection for his sister.
“Now then, Mr Dale and I have to go back on duty to shoot mutineers and pirates, and you are to lie down and trust in our all taking care of you. Try and sleep for a few hours.”
“Sleep!” she said reproachfully, “with you exposed to all that danger.”
“Yes! Why not? To grow strong, and ready to help me if I want it.”
“But, must you go, John?”