As the two lads sank into the stern thwart seat, Herc found opportunity to whisper to Ned, "Give me a teeny jab with that sword if you can."
"Why on earth do you want me to do that?" demanded Ned, in astonishment at Herc's seemingly perfectly serious request.
With his hand over his mouth Herc gave a veiled rejoinder.
"Because if it doesn't hurt, I'll know I'm tucked in my little hammock and dreaming!"
"All ready, sir," suggested the coxswain, taking his seat.
"Give way," ordered Ned calmly, and the four oars struck the water like one.
The boys were fairly off on their way to their first command.