When they arrived at Circular Quay, Wal Jessop took his companion to the Marine Board offices, where he left him, and went to send a cablegram to Edgar’s father.
Edgar gave his account of the wreck in a manner that at once won the respect of Captain Fife and the members of the Board. He modestly put his own courageous conduct in the background, and spoke of Captain Manton in such a manner that it left no doubt upon the minds of his hearers that everything had been done that was possible to save the ship. Edgar’s description of the wreck and the bravery of Wal Jessop was given in a simple, straightforward style.
Captain Fife watched Edgar narrowly, and came to the conclusion he was a lad to be trusted, and also a lad who had received a good education. After the Board meeting he took Edgar into his private office, and asked him what he intended to do.
‘I hardly know at present,’ replied Edgar, ‘but I have no doubt I shall be able to obtain some kind of work until I can look round.’
‘Your name seems familiar to me,’ said Captain Fife.
‘Probably,’ said Edgar, smiling, ‘if you are a lover of cricket.’
Captain Fife jumped up from his chair, and said in astonishment:
‘Surely you are not the son of Robert Foster, who captained the last English eleven against our team at Lord’s?’
‘I am,’ said Edgar, ‘and proud of it.’
‘And well you may be, my lad,’ said Captain Fife. ‘The son of such a sterling, manly cricketer as Robert Foster will not lack friends in Australia. I suppose it is needless to ask if you play?’