"But do you mean to tell me you would cross the Bay of Biscay in a
boat that size?"

"The Bay's maligned. I've been across it six times and it was only
rough once. Of course, I'd keep near the coast and run for shelter
if it came on to blow. You need not worry. She's as safe as a
house."

"I'm not worrying about her going to the bottom," Merriman answered.
"It's much worse than that. The fact is," he went on in a burst of
confidence, "I can't stand the motion. I'm ill all the time.
Couldn't I join you later?"

Hilliard nodded.

"I had that in my mind, but I didn't like to suggest it. As a
matter of fact it would suit me better. You see, I go on my
holidays a week earlier than you. I don't want to hang about all
that time waiting for you. I'll get a man and take the boat over
to Bordeaux, send the man home, and you can come overland and join
me there. How would that suit you?"

"A1, Hilliard. Nothing could be better."

They continued discussing details for the best part of an hour, and
when Merriman left for home it had been arranged that he should
follow Hilliard by the night train from Charing Cross on the
following Monday week.