Now, Mr Reardon, I think we will keep on just as we are, just about four knots an hour.

It gives the idea of our being in trouble; and if we keep on close outside the islands, it may draw the scoundrels--that is, if they are there." "Yes, sir, if they are there," said the lieutenant.
"How long do you reckon it will take us to get abreast of the reef where that barque lay ?" "We ought to be there by noon, sir, I should say." "That will do.

We shall seem to be making for Wanghai." I heard no more, but went below, and directly after breakfast reappeared in white flannels and a cricketing cap, a transformation which satisfied the first lieutenant, but displeased Barkins and Smith, who had orders to keep below in uniform.
"I hate so much favouritism," grumbled Barkins.

"Who are you, Gnat?
You're our junior; and here are we kept below, and my lord you parading about the deck, and seeing everything." "Why, you're in the reserve," I said banteringly, "and will have all the fighting to do." "Who wants all the fighting to do ?" cried Smith.

"I don't.