A scrawny little man in a blue jacket bustled through a screen door.

“Some wine, Poad. This is the new third lieutenant.”

Poad bobbed. “Pleasure, sir, I’m sure.”

As he hurried away Rhodes remarked, “Good servant, but light-fingered, so don’t leave anything too valuable lying about.” He became serious again. “The first lieutenant is in Plymouth, doing something or other. His name is Charles Palliser, and might seem a bit stiff at first meeting. He’s been in Destiny with the captain from her first commissioning.” He changed tack suddenly. “You were lucky to get this appointment.” It sounded like an accusation. “You’re so young. I’m twenty-three, and was only promoted to second lieutenant when my predecessor was killed.”

“Killed?”

Rhodes grimaced. “Hell, it was nothing heroic. He was thrown off a horse and broke his neck. Good fellow in many ways, but there it is.”

Bolitho watched the wardroom servant putting goblets and a bottle within Rhodes ’ reach.

He said, “I was surprised to get this appointment myself.”

Rhodes eyed him searchingly. “You don’t sound too sure. Don’t you want to join us? God, man, there are a hundred who would jump at the chance!”

Bolitho looked away. A bad beginning.

“It’s not that. My best friend was killed a month back.” It was out in the open. “I just can’t believe it.”

Rhodes ’ eyes softened and he pushed a glass towards him.

“Drink this, Richard. I didn’t understand. Sometimes I wonder why we do this work when others live easily ashore.”

Bolitho smiled at him. Except for his mother’s benefit he had not smiled much lately.