And he was so far softened
by my gratitude as to add a word of praise on the
American method of lacing sails. "You're ahead of us
in lacing sails," he said; "you can say that with a
clear conscience."
"Thank you," I replied, "I shall certainly do so."
At this rate we got along swimmingly; and when I rose
to retrace my steps to the Fowlery, he at once started
to his feet and offered me the welcome solace of his
company for the return. I believe I discovered much
alacrity at the idea, for the creature (who seemed to
be unique, or to represent a type like that of the
dodo) entertained me hugely. But when he had produced
his hat, I found I was in the way of more than
entertainment, for on the ribbon I could read the
legend, "H.M.S. Tempest."
"I say," I began, when our adieus were paid, and we
were scrambling down the path from the look-out, "it
was your ship that picked up the men on board the
FLYING SCUD, wasn't it?"
"You may say so," said he. "And a blessed good job for
the Flying-Scuds. It's a God-forsaken spot that Midway
Island.
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