me."

"An' I get a five years' honeymoon," said the soldier.

The boatswain shook his head and patted the other's shoulder. "In the
excitement of the moment you spring up and escape," he said, with a
kindly smile. "I've thought it all out. You can run much faster than I
can; any-ways, you will. The nearest 'ouse is arf a mile off, as I said,
and her servant is staying till to-morrow at 'er mother's, ten miles
away."

Mr. Travers rose to his feet and stretched himself. "Time I was
toddling," he said, with a yawn. "Thanks for amusing me, mate."

"You won't do it?" said the boatswain, eyeing him with much concern.

"I'm hanged if I do," said the soldier, emphatically. "Accidents will
happen, and then where should I be?"

"If they did," said the boatswain, "I'd own up and clear you."

"You might," said Mr. Travers, "and then again you mightn't. So long,
mate."

"I--I'll make it two quid," said the boat-swain, trembling with
eagerness. "I've took a fancy to you; you're just the man for the job."

The soldier, adjusting his bundle, glanced at him over his shoulder.
"Thankee," he said, with mock gratitude.