My alien standing was almost forgotten through the constant companionship of common tasks, and I saw no profit in flaunting it, though my determination not to lift a hand against my country was as strong as ever.
We had a prosperous voyage of thirty-five days, and were within two days' sail of Cherbourg, when we sighted a ship of war which had apparently had longer or quicker eyes than our own.

She was coming straight for us when we became aware of her, and she never swerved from her course till her great guns began to play on us under British colours.
True to those colours, as soon as her standing was fixed, I made my way to Captain Duchatel to claim performance of his promise.
I had no need to put it into words.

The moment I saluted, he said, "Ah, yes.

So you stick to it ?" I saluted again, without speaking.
"Bien! Go to the surgeon and tell him you are to help him.

There will be work for you all before long." And there was.