He did not brood over a storm, therefore, but continued to consider the subject which had so deeply interested him since he discovered Mulgrum on his knees at the door, with a rag and a saucer of rottenstone in his hands.

He had a curiosity to examine the brass knob of his door at that moment, and it did not appear to have been very severely rubbed.
"Quarter of seven, sir," said Dave, presenting himself at the door while Christy was still musing over the incidents already detailed.
"All right, Dave; I will have my supper now," replied Christy, indifferently, for though he was generally blessed with a good appetite the mystery was too absorbing to permit the necessary duty of eating to drive it out of his mind.
Dave retired, and soon brought in a tray from the galley, the dishes from which he arranged on the table.

It was an excellent supper, though he had not given any especial orders in regard to its preparation.

He seated himself and began to eat in a rather mechanical manner, and no one who saw him would have mistaken him for an epicure.

Dave stationed himself in front of the commander, so that he was between the table and the door.