The Great Cabin

"Some of us do not fight for, but against." Stephen pushed his plate away. "I must speak to the armourer."

Raoul looked at him, in sudden concern. "I did not mean..." he started, then fell silent, aware that the master, down from his spell on watch, had raised his head to watch and listen as Stephen's plate scraped across the board. He rose to his feet, ducking his head unnecessarily, very aware of the oppressively low ceiling.

"It was nothing you said, Capitaine," Stephen said coolly. "But I have lingered too long - I really must speak to the armourer. Thank you, gentlemen."

Raoul moved, then glanced back at the surly Marine, and then again at the doctor. "At least you have eaten," he said, and smiled as if accepting Stephen's explanation. "I hope you will come for breakfast. You should not do something like that fasting."

Padstowe nodded to the doctor, then bowed his head thoughtfully. He was certain by the glance cast at him by Maturin that it was his reply, not des Sablières', which had caused the doctor discomfort. He rose from the table when Stephen had left.

"And I think I shall retire to my cabin, capitaine, if you will excuse me. I believe I have eaten my fill for tonight."

Raoul watched the doctor leave, and then turned as Padstowe stood. An ill-timed jest, he thought regretfully that had destroyed a moment's pleasant good humour. He bowed his head in acknowledgement of the Captain's words. "Goodnight, Captain Padstowe. Thank you again for what you said to Captain Bolitho: I do not mean to cause so much trouble." There was a rueful note in his voice.

The capitaine's words did something to bring a small smile to Padstowe's face.

"I do not think in your position I would have done any less, monsieur," he said, returning a bow of his own. "And I only think it proper that a gentleman's honour should remain intact when he has done nothing to tarnish it. Goodnight, monsieur."

"Goodnight, Captain." Raoul watched him leave, and said goodnight to the officers remaining in the wardroom.

[And continues here]