Van Diemen was praising little Jane for her devotion to her master.
“Master have been so kind to me,” said little Jane.
“Now, march; it is cold,” Van Diemen gave the word, and Herbert stood by Mary rather dejectedly, foreseeing that his prospects at Elba were darkened.
“Now then, Mart, left leg forward,” Van Diemen linked his arm in his friend’s.
“I must have a look,” Tinman broke from him, and cast a forlorn look of farewell on the last of the house on the beach.
“You’ve got me left to you, old Mart; don’t forget that,” said Van Diemen.
Tinman’s chest fell. “Yes, yes,” he responded. He was touched.
“And I told those fellows if they landed you dry they should have—I’d give them double pay; and I do believe they’ve earned their money.”
“I don’t think I’m very wet, I’m cold,” said Tinman.
“You can’t help being cold, so come along.”