But there was that to be said between them which was not for other ears.
The tars had watched the meeting with much favour, for greetings so friendly between officer and man were not often seen among them in those days, though more possible between sailormen than in the army. When they saw Jim slip his arm through Seth's and draw him along with him, they started a lusty cheer. "Three cheers for young Fuzzy-cap! Hip--hip!" And Jim grinned jovially and waved his hand in reply. And Seth Rimmer, in spite of the taciturnity which they could not understand, was a man of note among them from that day.
"Did you hear all about your poor old dad, Seth?" asked Jim quietly.
"Yes, Mester Jim. Th' passon told me all about it."
"It was a grievous thing. But I don't think I was to blame, Seth. He would go out and ramble about. I did all I could for him."
"I know. I know."
"And Kattie, Seth! You surely never thought I had anything to do with that matter?"
"No, Mester Jim. I knowed it wasn't you."
"Do you know who it was, Seth? I would hold him to account if ever I got the chance. But she would not tell me."
"You found her?" asked Seth, with a start that brought them both to a stand.