The Earl put his hand up to his forehead.
“I think I must be dreaming! The whole exercise is meant to be completely secret!”
“I know that,” Shenda said, “but when Lieutenant Doughty came home he told his father what he had been – chosen to do – and the doctor told my – father.”
“Are you telling me that the whole village is now aware and talking of the Expedition?”
“Oh – no – my Lord. Guy Doughty swore his father to secrecy – and my father never – repeated anything that was – told to him confidentially.”
“I suppose I should be relieved about that!” the Earl said sarcastically. “Well, what do you make of it and I suppose you don’t know the answer – ”
“I think I do, my Lord,” Shenda replied.
The Earl stared as if he was past finding words for what he was feeling.
“One of the seamen in
