He went for'ard and, bending down, spoke through the open window of the wheel-house.
"Something more for you to practise, Stratton," he said. "Now, carry on, just as if I weren't here."
The Patrol-leader considered a few moments, then, "Stand by the wheel, Hepburn," he ordered. "I'll go on deck and give directions from there."
By this time the rest of the crew had left their interrupted meal and were preparing to assist in the towing operations, Roche and Warkworth going aft ready to heave a line.
Very slowly and deliberately the Olivette was manoeuvred within 5 or 6 feet of the broken-down craft. Roche was preparing to heave a line when the Patrol-leader hurried aft.
"Let them pass us a line," he said hurriedly, and in a low tone. "I'll tell you why later."
As the Olivette glided slowly past the launch, Stratton shouted:
"Now then, pass your rope smartly."
The man in the bows of the launch obeyed promptly; Peter took a turn round the after towing bollard and gave the word "easy ahead".
As soon as the Olivette and her tow had steadied on their course, Stratton went up to the Scoutmaster.