“I’ll accept that as your gratitude,” Jim observed dryly. “I see that you’re in need of repairs. A new mast, canvas for sails, and so on. I can give you a fortnight, Captain. I suggest you take advantage of the time. Perhaps a visit to the country.”
“Fresh air.”
“Clearing your head.”
“My head,” Jason said, “is extremely clear on this subject, sir. My men will appreciate the leave. Thank you.”
“Stonebrook’s presence will be required in Town for a discussion of certain parliamentary appointments and vacancies, beginning in two days. He will be too occupied to return to his son and the estate for, oh, twelve days, I should think. Such a pity he’ll be away from the house so long; it’s quite lovely. Elizabethan construction originally, I believe, though with extensive modifications. Archite
