"Yes, a lot," was the other's reply.
"You asked me a lot of questions about the ship last night, and I told you. We've got a general cargo, and after Singapore we go to Batavia, then to Wellington, New Zealand, and back home."
"How long shall we be away?"
"Oh! perhaps nine months—perhaps more if I get other orders," was Bowden's breezy reply. "This old tub ain't very fast, you know. She isn't one of your slap-up liners. We never have passengers. I don't like 'em. Only Mr. Morton asked me to take you out for the benefit of your health, and I consented."
"Mr. Morton! Who's he?"
"A friend of yours, isn't he?"
"I don't know anyone of that name," declared Gerald astounded.
Captain Bowden looked straight into the young man's face for a few moments in silence, and then, nodding his head, said:
"Ah! Of course!"
"Why of course?" asked Gerald in annoyance at the captain's tone.