“Sam,” said the purser, dropping his meat into the bottom of the boat, “see what you can do with these fellows. And remember, Mr. Mercer has never eaten fresh crabs.”
When the two fishermen had climbed to the deck of the Lycoming and Sam had taken charge of the crabs, the purser said to Roy, “Now run along and enjoy yourself. I’m a thousand times obliged to you for your help.”
“Isn’t there anything more that I can do to help you?” asked Roy.
“Not a thing, lad. One can finish what remains as well as two, and perhaps better than two. But I’m obliged to you for the offer.”
“I’m obliged to you for the dinner and the introduction to real, live crabs,” said Roy as he turned away from the purser and found himself face to face with the chief engineer.
“Well, did you enjoy yourself?” asked Mr. Anderson, with a smile. “I saw you crabbing with Mr. Robbins.”
“I had a fine time,” answered Roy. “It was my first experience at catching crabs.”
“You’re seeing lots of new things, aren’t you?”
“Yes, indeed, and they are all interesting. Sometime I hope you will be willing to show me your engines.”
Mr. Anderson’s face lighted up like a child’s. “Would you really like to see them?” he asked.