Caribbee(115)

‘Wha’?’

‘Sir, I formally request an exchange with Lieutenant Buckle into this ship, he to stay in the Caribbean.’

‘And ain’t that the truth?’ Buckle blurted.

What could he say? To have Bowden back in L’Aurore’s ship’s company in whatever adventures lay ahead …

With a broad grin Kydd snatched up his glass and, in a ringing voice, proclaimed, ‘We’re to be quit o’ the fair Caribbee, but God rest ye, merry gentlemen, we’ll be home for Christmas!’