Some twenty or thirty people were on the dock now, examining the ship. Officers and enlisted men and sailors from the navy boats crowded about the ship.
The Chaplain found Major Barkison talking to a gray-haired Colonel.
“On your way, Chaplain?”
“Yes. My friend just met me. I’m going to be out near Chapel Number One, I think.”
“Well, you know where I am, Adjutant’s Office. Drop by and see me.” The Major was cordial and distant.
“I certainly will. Good luck.”
“Good luck, Chaplain.” They shook hands. Then the Chaplain shook hands with young Hodges who had been standing near by. The Chaplain walked back to where Kerrigan stood waiting.
“Come on,” said Kerrigan. “It’s getting cold, standing around like this.”
“Be right with you.” The Chaplain picked his duffel bag up out of the puddle. He looked at the black water marks.
“What a shame,” said Kerrigan. “I’ll help you.” Together they put the duffel bag in the back of Kerrigan’s jeep.