Stripped of his armour, weapons, and money, James was impressed upon to sail with Admiral Gryll. He was smart enough to lay low and work hard. The quarter master’s whip was a reminder that a ship’s work is never done.Â
This day he was directed to see Admiral Gryll.
One did not see him without being beckoned.
“Who are you, boy? State your business for sneaking aboard me ship.”
James was direct.
“I am James, the Bastard. You besieged my hometown. I would have cleft you in twain with my greatsword.”
“Har har! You got salt to you boy, but are lacking in manners! A man does not tell an Admiral such words on his own ship. Be ye seeking an early grave in the deep or be you seeking work?”
“I seek to work off my debt for sneaking aboard and be let off at the next port with my belongings.”Â
Admiral Gryll laughed wickedly,
“A La Longi boy, Longingly Longing for his belongings! Get back to work swab.”
James knew he was in a straight and resumed working.