West Wind Drift

Book Excerpt: ..." gasped Captain Trigger, with something more than emotion in his voice. "What is this you are telling me?""He seems a most likeable chap," explained Mr. Mott lamely. "Quite a courteous fellow, too, sir. I forgot to mention that he sent his compliments to you and asks for an interview at your earliest conven--""Asked for an interview? Drag him here at once--by the heels, if necessary. Tell him I shan't keep him waiting an instant," said the captain ironically. Mr. Mott still hesitated. "In the event, sir, that he is in the midst of shaving--""I don't care a hang what he's in the midst of," exclaimed Captain Trigger. "Even in the midst of changing shirts. Present my compliments to him, Mr. Mott, and say that he needn't dress up on my account. I am an old-fashioned sailor-man. It is nothing new to me to see men who haven't shaved in a fortnight, and others who never change shirts.""Very well, sir," said Mr. Mott, and departed. Presently he reappeared with the stowaw...