“’Cept Friday, sir. The men wouldn’t like that. To-night if you like.”
“Ah, well, we won’t go to-night,” said the doctor.
“Only give your orders, sir,” said the captain shortly. “Like to take a look round now? Fresh provisions are all on board.”
“Oh no,” said Uncle Paul, “I know it all by heart.”
“Looks a beauty now, don’t she, sir?”
“Oh yes, she looks very well. Here, Rodd, come down with me into the work-room.”
The doctor strode off aft at once, the captain following slowly with the boy; and as their chief descended the cabin stairs Captain Chubb cocked his eye at his young companion.
“Bit rusty this morning,” he whispered.
“Yes; uncle’s getting out of patience,” whispered back Rodd.
“No wonder,” said the captain. “Well, ’tarn’t my fault. I never see such a doctor’s shop and museum as he’s made of the craft.”