The Chaplain buttoned his parka tightly at the throat. It was not particularly cold but he did not like the thought of being chilled.
He walked up and down the forward deck while the longshoremen began to unload cargo. Men were walking all over the ship, examining the stump of the mast and the other scars of the storm. Up in the wheelhouse he could see Evans talking with a group of officers.
He looked up at the dock from time to time. Chaplain Kerrigan was supposed to meet him at the dock. In the morning there was to be a meeting of all Chaplains; they were to discuss something or other, O’Mahoney was not sure what. He wished that Kerrigan would arrive soon.
Hodges and Major Barkison came out on deck.
“All ready to go ashore?” asked the Major.
“Just as soon as they get unloaded,” said the Chaplain. “This is the first time I’ve been on Arunga.”
“Is that right? Would you like me to give you a lift? My staff car’ll be here soon.”
“No thank you. Someone’s supposed to meet me.”
“Fine.” The Major climbed up on the dock and Hodges followed him.
O’Mahoney watched them take their baggage off his now-soaked duffel bag.