"Edge away from us, and I'll see."
By this time the two smacks were almost in collision, but they went clear. The skipper went below and stated the case. Ferrier listened grimly.
"What do you think, skipper?"
"Your life's precious, sir. You've come to be like the apple of my eye; I'd rather die myself than you should go."
"Are your men game enough?"
"I'm going myself if you go. If I die I shall be in my Master's service."
"Is it so very bad?"
"Very."
"What's our chance?"
"Ten to one against us ever coming back."