"You are in a joking humour this morning. I suppose it is the result of
your good luck yesterday?"
"And what may you be pleased to call my good luck?"
"Sam Slack called here, and said you had gone to Lewes to back a horse."
"Did he now? That's kind of him, giving me away like that," said Job.
"It's no concern of mine, of course," said Sharp, "but I advise you to
stick to your ship and leave horses alone."
"What are you going to put aboard out of your winnings?" asked Job.
"My winnings, what do you mean?" asked the astonished Sharp.
"You backed my tip, and it came off. I think we deserve a few odds and
ends in the way of luxuries after that. As a rule, mind you, I say as a
rule--this voyage may prove an exception--the 'Golden Land' is not
exactly a floating Hotel Cecil. Perhaps you'll assist us in the cookery
department, and I may say that the wine cellar is disgracefully
under-stocked."
Abe Sharp laughed again. He, too, was in a good humour.
"I confess I had a trifle on that horse Slack named. Only a trifle, mind
you. I'll see what can be done for you; but if steam is up, and you sail
in two hours, I fear it will be impossible for me to accede to your
request."
"Steam can be let off," said Job.
"What do you require on board?" asked Sharp.
"Most things; you can't go wrong whatever you send aboard, unless it be
salt," said Job.
"You have never complained before about the provisions."
"Your memory is failing. I made one complaint five years ago, and said
I'd let it stand good so that I need not be at the trouble of repeating
myself."
"I understand; and let me tell you, Captain Seagrave, we are perfectly
satisfied with you. Our firm never forgets the men who serve us well."
"I have been in your employ about twenty years," replied Job, "and if
you have not forgotten me, I cannot say you have remembered me."
"You have had your salary raised," said Sharp.
"That has not hurt me. The rise was imperceptible."
"Really, I think you deserve some consideration. I'll mention the matter
to the Board."
"We shall be half way to Australia then."
Abe Sharp was amused. He knew very well Captain Seagrave was underpaid;
but he could do very little for him on his own initiative.
"You must sail as soon as possible. When can you leave?" he asked.
"When I get my two passengers on board. I have to find them first."
"That's awkward; but have you no idea where they are?"
"The young fellow who rode Topsy Turvy yesterday I can lay hands on
pretty quick, and no doubt he'll find his chum."
Sharp was interested.
"Is Jack Redland going out with you?"
"Yes; I thought you knew."
"I was not in the office when he came with Marton. His father was a well
known man in the city."
"Was he? Then the son does not take after him. He's a gentleman," said
Job, who hated the city and the men in it.