Part 35 (2/2)
”As easily as jam is spread on a piece of bread. I never thought of that, though. What a beast--what a perfect beast I have been!”
d.i.c.k was of an excitable temperament: the alcohol in his thermometer--his spirits--was ever at the fever-heat of exuberance or deep down at the zero of dejection. But little was needed to carry him to either extreme: therein lay his danger. Masters knew it; yet he said:
”If I had only known all this a few weeks ago, I should not be on this boat now.”
”I am glad you lacked the knowledge, then, Prince. For if you hadn't come aboard when you did, I shouldn't be here either.”
Masters regretted his reproachful speech the moment it was uttered.
Instantly changed its tone; put up a warning finger as he cried threateningly:
”d.i.c.k!”
”I know it, dear old chap; I know what my intent was. But don't let's talk about it now.”
”Or ever again.”
The cloud cleared from the lad's face; he responded heartily:
”Right!”
At the moment the gong sounded in the engine-room. An air of bustle pervaded the s.h.i.+p. They looked to discover the cause.
”Hullo! Why, look here! Here we are at Madeira.”
They were. So absorbed had they been in conversation as not to notice how near they were to land. The usual excitement of a stoppage now occupied their attention.
The vessel was to stay at Madeira for a time. Stores had to be taken in and the pa.s.sengers allowed a chance of seeing the place before the vessel was turned for her homeward voyage.
Masters and d.i.c.k spent their whole time on sh.o.r.e; always in each other's company. The author explained that he liked sympathy in his admiration for the lions of the port. The one made many sketches and the other many mental notes.
They were quite good friends again.
CHAPTER XXVIII
HOMEWARD BOUND
Two days after; _La Mascotte_ steamed away from Madeira. The list of the s.h.i.+p's pa.s.sengers had been added to. Two new persons were aboard, returning to England.
Masters and d.i.c.k were seated on deck in their usual places. The one writing, the other sketching; suddenly a voice behind them said:
”If it were needed, here is more evidence of the smallness of the world.”
The voice had that settled Society drawl about it. Particularly unwelcome hearing away from its proper setting: the surroundings in which it is usually to be heard. In its own sphere it is bad enough; is positively jarring in the unconventional atmosphere of aboard-s.h.i.+p life.
At any rate, d.i.c.k found it so, if judgment might be framed from his expression. He looked the reverse of pleased, but subdued the feeling as he turned round and spoke:
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