'I am glad we are joining together.' They both looked up as a shadow fell between them and one of the smoky lanterns. The one-armed man was staring at them, his face very grim. He said quietly, 'Thank you, young gentlemen.' He thrust out his hand. 'Good luck go with you. I reckon I'm seeing two captains.' He moved away as one of the serving girls carried two steaming pots of food to a side table, adding for the room's benefit, 'Some of you take heed of this day. A lesson for you.' The landlord thrust his large bulk towards the midshipmen as the buzz of conversation slowly returned. Til take your damn money nowV He glared at Dancer. 'And after that…' Bolitho said calmly, 'After that, landlord, you will bring two glasses of brandy for us.' He watched the man's mounting fury, gauging the moment as he would the fall of a nine-pound shot. 'I would mind your manners if I were you. My friend here is fortunately in good humour. But his father owns most of the land around this point.' The landlord swallowed hard. 'But, God bless you, sir, I was only teasing! I'll bring the brandy at once. The best I have, and I trust you will allow me to pay for it.' He hurried away, his face suddenly worried. Dancer said incredulously, 'But my father is a tea merchant in the City of London! I doubt if he has ever seen Portsmouth Point in his life! ' He shook his head. 'I think I shall have to sharpen my wits if I am to keep pace with you, Richard! ' Bolitho smiled gravely. 'Dick, if you don't mind.' As they were sipping their brandy the street door was flung wide open. This time it did not close. Framed in the entrance was a lieutenant in a streaming tarpaulin coat, his cocked hat sodden from spray and rain. He barked, 'All midshipmen for the Gorgon to muster at the sallyport at once. There is a party of men outside to take your chests to the boat.' He strode to the fire and snatched a goblet of brandy from the landlord. 'It's blowing like hell outside.' He held his reddened hands above the blaze.