frosty as a berg." "Well, of course, it would be much more satisfactory to be sailing under a real Tartar," remarked the little man with mild pleasantry. Holgate cast him a glance which inquired, but was indifferent. "What's your idea, doctor?" he asked. "I have none," said I, smiling. "I am much more interested in third officers." His masklike face relaxed, and he stroked his black moustaches, and took a long pull of his cigar. "That was very nice of you, doctor," he said, nodding with more cordiality. Pye drew an apple from his pocket, and carefully bit into it. I don't know why, but it struck me as comical to see him at this schoolboy business, his ears alert, his glasses shining, and his white teeth going to and fro. He reminded me of a squirrel, a fancy to which the little tufts of whiskers by his ears lent themselves. He eyed both of us brightly. "After all," said the third officer heavily, "it's more important in the end to know your owner, let alone his travelling with you. I wouldn't give two straws for the old man, velvet or iron, so long as I could get the lug of my owner." "You'll find them both all right," said Pye reassuringly. "Captain Day I have seen and Mr. Morland I know." "He is very rich?" I asked. "I'll trouble you for a two and a half commission on it," said the clerk cheerfully, "and then I'd live like a fighting-cock. At least, that's what we all believe. There's no knowing." The shadows of the November afternoon had gathered in the streets without, and a thin scant rain was flying. Into the area of warmth and brightness entered more customers, and shook the water from the umbrellas. They stood at the bar and drank and talked noisily. Round about us in the loom of the great barrels the shadows lurched from the wagging gas-flames. The clerk had finished his apple. "We will have another," said Holgate. "This is mine," I said. He shook his head. I protested. "Doctor, you confess you live in doubt," he said, "whereas I have my appointment in my pocket. Plainly it is my right."
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