Cut and Run: The Fourth Book in the Fighting Sail Series by Alaric Bond Read Free Book Online

presents.”
           “I was appointed by Leadenhall Street and given to understand it was to be an improvement.” Paterson was sipping at his cold tea again. “Second mate at the very least. But from what I have now discovered, the captain has already installed Mr Willis and Mr Seagrove; they are friends from a previous commission, perhaps?”
           “It is possible.” Manning thought for a moment. “Although when he interviewed me Mr Rogers claimed this to be his first command.”
           “Then, it is unlikely, and he is probably as blind to their worth as we are.”
           “You did not take to them?” King asked.
           Paterson stiffened slightly. “Forgive me, I have spoken too soon. Sadly, I have the habit for saying too much when it is not required. It’s a fault I do try to correct.” He grinned at King who found himself liking the man a little better. “Still, I understand he has conjured up a crew; no mean feat in these times.”
           “His family have excellent connections,” King said dryly.
           “Then maybe they found him our premier and second.” Kate was also one inclined to speak out of turn, although in her case no attempt was made to control the tendency. “And perchance they are not quite so stupid as they appear.” She produced a small pair of silver scissors and started to unpick the facings to the lapels on King's uniform.
           “That is something we will doubtless find out by and by.” Paterson was watching Kate with apparent interest. “Tell me, what are you doing to that coat?”
           Kate raised her eyes. “A simple misunderstanding, nothing more.”
           “I had thought to be shipping as a mate, not a midshipman,” King said glumly.
           “Ah, another who has found his expectations lowered.” Paterson pulled a wry face. “A pity. Still, the distinction is not so very great in the merchant service.”
           “So I have been advised.”
           “No, in truth, it makes little difference,” the man persisted. “Allow me to explain; if it will not bore you; of course.”
           King shook his head. “No, please, go ahead.”
           “Pay for a mid is the same as that of a fifth mate, an' you will still be called to stand watch. Berthing arrangements are also identical, the only way you will be light is in the matter of indulgence.”
           The three looked at Paterson blankly.
           “It is the term we use for private cargo; mates warrant a large allowance of hold space for their own personal trading. Of course, funds are needed to back the goods, but if that is in your mind, I rarely use my full quota and will gladly share.”
           “How many trips have you made?” Kate asked.
           “To India, this will be my fourth, but I travelled on to Canton on two occasions, and have also seen New South Wales twice.”
           “A busy life.”
           “Indeed.” Paterson looked keenly at King. “And one I'd not swap. I understand your loyalty to His Majesty, but John Company has its advantages; guaranteed travel, and most times you know exactly where you're heading, as well as an idea of when you shall return.”
           “And singularly little blockading duty, I gather?”
           Paterson returned King’s smile. “We are rarely asked,” he agreed.
           The door opened again, and this time an older man with prominent sideburns stood on the threshold. Manning rose from his chair at once.
           “Come in, sir. Come in do.” He turned to the other occupants. “May I introduce Mr Keats, our surgeon?”
           There was a brief exchanging of names and handshakes, and soon Keats was relaxing comfortably at the table and accepting a cup of cold tea from Kate.
           “Your first trip aboard Pevensey Castle ?” Paterson asked him as Tomlinson, the steward, entered