About this story
On the last evening in port, a hurried knock brings Glynn Proctor back bruised and out of breath: the new cook has been struck down in a dockside accident, and Glynn, defending him, is now wanted by the police. One night remains to recover both men before the tide, and the law, decide the matter without you.
How it opens
You interviewed a cook for the Red Eric inside a temperance coffee-house near the docks.
Nikel SlingFifteen years at sea, Captain Dunning, and I can feed a watch in any weather.
His experience answered one requirement while your direct question about drink answered another.
Nikel SlingWater is my drink, Captain; no spirit has passed my lips in all my years afloat.
Choose
Ask which seas he has crossed during those fifteen years as a cook.
State the temperance rule and ask whether he can serve without drink or habitual swearing.