Evans shrugged. “The usual one, I guess. Lost at sea in line of duty, accident.”
“That’s the simplest, I suppose.” Hodges looked at the others. They were very solemn. Death had a sobering effect on people: reminded them that they were not immortal.
The Chaplain sat muttering to himself. Hodges wondered if the Chaplain enjoyed this sudden call on his professional services.
Major Barkison, whom Hodges admired, was indifferent, or at least he seemed indifferent. His face was cold and severe. Hodges tried to look cold and severe, too.
Martin was excited. His face was flushed and his eyes unusually bright. He talked with Bervick who seldom answered him.
Hodges tried to remember something. He was reminded of this thing by the sound of waves splashing on the deck. He scowled and thought and concentrated but the thing floated away from his conscious mind.
Evans was talking to one of the assistant engineers. “I want you to get the Chief’s stuff together. I’ll have to inspect it and then we’ll send it back.”
“I’ll get the stuff together.” The two engineers were less moved than any of the others.
Evans turned to Martin, “You better make out that usual notice, you know the one about all people owed money by the Chief, that one.”
“I’ll write it up tomorrow.”