"That isn't true, is it, Captain?" whispered Grigosie. "We know better than that."
Ellerey laughed, but he was not displeased to keep the lad in low conversation. The song had let loose a flood of jest and anecdote which lost none of their ribaldry in the telling. They were ill suited for a boy to hear and batten on.
"Yes, lad; we know better, you and I," he said. "Let them talk, we need not listen."
"I suppose it is natural in youth to shudder at some things they talk of, and much I do not understand."
"Keeping such ignorance you will be the happier. And do not drink much wine to-night, Grigosie; you must take your turn at sentry duty. It is share and share alike in an enterprise like this."
"Grant, then, there be stars to-night. I never feel lonely under the stars," the lad answered. "It was good wine that was poured into my flask at starting; I have hardly tasted it until now. Is yours good?"
"It might be worse, and I was never a heavy drinker."
"Taste mine."
"No, lad; why should I rob you?"
"Indeed, it will be no robbery. If you do not take it I shall offer it to Stefan presently. It is too strong for me."