Mr.Barker had no idea of getting wet, and the sudden headache of the Countess, combined with the absence of Claudius from her side, interested him.

He meant to stay below and watch the events of the morning.

Piloted by the Duke, the strong English girl and the wiry old Scotch lady made their way up the companion, not without difficulty, for the skipper's prediction was already fulfilled, and the _Streak_ was ploughing her way through all sorts of weather at once.
The deck was slippery and sloppy, and the sharp spray was blowing itself in jets round every available corner.

The sky was of an even lead colour, but it was hard to tell at first whether it was raining or not.
The Duke's face gleamed like a wet red apple in the wind and water as he helped his sister to the leeward and anchored her among the shrouds.
"Hullo, Claudius, you seem to like this!" he sang out, spying the tall Swede near the gangway.

Claudius came towards them, holding on by the pins and cleats and benches.