The three pirates took one of the fat young geese, plucked and dressed it, and baked it in a hot oven, with dressing, sweet potatoes, hot-bread, and a pudding which she mixed up herself.
For three hours they gossiped, and before she knew it, she had told them about Prebol, about Parson Rasba introducing them. The pirates shouted when she told of Jest’s apology. With river frankness, they said they thought a heap of Terabon, who minded his own business so cleverly.
“I like him, too,” she admitted. “I was afraid you boys might make trouble for Carline, though. He don’t know much about people, treating them right.”
“He’s one of those ignorant Up-the-Bankers,” Despard said.
“Oh, I know him.” She shrugged her shoulders a little bitterly.
As they ate the goose in camaraderie, the pirates took to warning and advising her about the Lower River; they told her who would treat her right, and who wouldn’t. They especially warned her against stopping anywhere near Island 37.
“They’re bad there—and mean.” Despard shook his head, gravely.
“I won’t stop in there,” Nelia promised. “River folks anybody can get along with, but those Up-the-Bankers!”
“Hit’s seo,” Jet cried. “They don’t have no feelings for nobody.” 182
“You’ll be dropping on down?” Nelia asked.