The captain strolled aft. More and more as the days went on the frivolous young man’s liking for this veteran of the sea had increased, in spite of the fact that the captain had endeavored to carry away his gold mine.
“Sit down, captain,” he cried. “What will you drink?”
“A cup of coffee, to keep me awake. I expect to be up all night, or at least till we pass the Ushant.”
“Right you are, and coffee it is. Oh, by the way, I have changed my mind, and you must change your course. Instead of striking straight across from Ushant to Plymouth, steer your course up the Channel for Southampton.”
“Very good, earl.”
“And I’ve also changed my mind regarding that bit of land of yours.”
“Oh, have you, earl?” said the captain, with a catch in his voice, and disappointment visible on his countenance.
“Yes, that’s the reason we’re going to Southampton. You will lay this yacht up—I think that is the nautical term—alongside your bit of land. As you know, I am anxious that you shouldn’t be seen, and also that nobody aboard should have a chance to talk.”
“I’ll see to that, earl.”
“My dear man, don’t call me earl. I told you I was an earl in strict confidence. Haven’t you noticed that everyone addresses me as ‘sir,’ and I don’t even insist on that. We are all free and equal at sea, except the captain, who rules over us. When we reach Southampton water I’ll go ashore in the motor boat, will call on the land agent, secure the estate of five acres, give the deeds to your wife, and invite her and the family to come up and view the cottage.”