"But he can't go on like this forever," said his scandalized friend.
"He's all right," said the captain, with a satisfied wink. "I'm looking after him. I'm stage-manager. I'll see——"
His voice faltered, and then died away as he caught Miss Hartley's eye and noticed the air of artless astonishment with which she was regarding him.
"Always was from a child," she quoted.
The captain ignored her.
"I'll just give Walters a note," he said, turning to Hartley with some dignity. "You don't mind his waiting?"
He turned to a small writing-table, and with an air of preoccupation, assumed for Miss Hartley's benefit, began to try a pen on his thumb-nail. Hartley, going to the door, sent the boatswain off to the kitchen for a glass of ale.
"Or perhaps you prefer tea?" he added, thoughtfully.
"Ale will do, sir," said Mr. Walters, humbly.
He walked to the kitchen, and, pushing the door open softly, went in. Rosa Jelks, who was sitting down reading, put aside her book and smiled welcome.