"Why don't they go ahead?"
"Too much sea. These boats are made for speed, not strength. You can break their backs by steaming into a head sea."
Daniels, the cook, came on deck and aft to the limits of the hatch, indicating by his face and manner that he wished to speak to Denman.
Denman arose and approached him.
"Will you and the lady eat breakfast together, sir?" he asked.
"I believe so," answered Denman. Then, turning to Florrie: "How will it be? May I eat breakfast with you this morning?"
She nodded.
"Then, sir," said Daniels, "I'll have to serve it in the after cabin."
"Why not the wardroom? Why not keep out of Miss Fleming's apartment?"
"Because, Mr. Denman, our work is laid out. Billings attends to the wardroom, and swears he won't serve this lady, or get within reach of her."