Harry, having fiercely guarded the cabin access from all the workmen, had followed Bert ashore, investigating new smells, exchanging insults with other barge dogs, and chasing the few seagulls that dared loiter. Then he joined two terriers in pursuit of rats, to the amusement of Dickie Byrd.
“We’ll be loading soon’s we’ve this lot unloaded. Mebbe two days. Now mind t’ ship, lads. Yer can step ashore, but stays on t’ quay by her. Got it?”
The trio nodded. Though they were curious to see what this town had to offer, they were also tired and acutely aware of being in a place that was wholly unfamiliar to them. George responded for all of them when he said, “Right yez are, Guv.”
Watching the skipper stroll away toward the warehouse a little farther along, he turned to the others. “I’m knack
