“Thank you, sir.”
“Don’t mention it. I’m quite appreciative of what you, ah, did. I’m not quite sure in my mind, however, that it was a wise thing to do, to take a ship out in such bad weather.”
Evans was surprised and a little angry. “What do you mean, Major, I mean Colonel?”
“Nothing at all, except that some might say, now mind you I don’t, but some might say you showed bad judgment.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about, sir. You insisted on the trip. I said that we were taking a chance, that was all.” Evans tried to keep the anger out of his voice.
“I quite understand, Mr Evans,” said Barkison coldly, beginning to shuffle his papers again. “I shall see you tomorrow.”
“Yes, sir.” Bervick saluted and Evans did not as they left Barkison’s office.
“Well,” said Bervick when they were outside the Adjutant’s office, “there goes that medal of yours.”
“I’d like to knock that little bastard’s head in,” said Evans with feeling. “Did you hear him say I showed bad judgment?”
“Well, he had to pass the buck; I mean, it would look bad if people heard he insisted on taking this trip in such bad weather. He just wants to cover himself.”