"'We were waitin' for Mr. Siddons, Sir, when you hailed.'
"'What orders did he leave?'
"'Said he was going up the beach a little way, Sir. Told us he wouldn't be long.'
"'Where did you land the pilot?'
"'At Mr. Grünbaum's jetty, Sir. It's the best for a big boat.'
"'Then where is he now?'
"'I couldn't say, Sir,' said the man. 'He went up the path with the pilot; that's all we know.'
"Jack took a turn along the deck.
"'P'raps I'd better go and 'unt him up,' suggested Mr. Bloom, stroking his moustache.
"'And leave me here with one mate and no pilot?' said Jack. 'Fred, you go.' He followed me into my room where I had a pocket-torch, and whispered, 'Go up yourself, Jack. See what I mean? He's a decent young feller, even if I do find fault. Don't let the men see anything.'