Chapter 10
Payment on an Account“Mister Poole,” Petroc called the midshipman to him. “I’ve a special task for you: one that needs a nimble mind and a steady head… and a strong swimmer.”
The midshipman’s face went through a range of emotions, from pleasure at being given a special task to concern at the news that he might have to swim, even though he was acknowledged as the ship’s keenest indulger of this sport. “Aye, sir?”
Petroc grinned. “Aye, Mister Poole, an important task and a dangerous one. Have you the stomach for a little mayhem for our foe?”
The young man grinned. “Aye, sir. But at this season a swim is not my favourite activity.”
Petroc laughed. “It will be a short one if Mister Curran does his part. I want you to sail our captured gunboat into the entrance of their lair, th
