Desolation Island (Aubrey & Maturin #5)

by Patrick O'Brian

In the darkened cabin he found Stephen with his ’cello between his knees and a soup-tureen at his side. ‘Judas,’ he said, lifting the lid and beholding emptiness. ‘Not at all, my dear. More is on the brew; but I cannot recommend it. You would be better with a glass of water, tempered with a few drops of wine, a very few drops of wine, and a piece of biscuit.’ ‘What did you eat it for, then? Why did you not leave a scrap, not a single scrap?’ ‘It was only that I felt my need was greater than thine, my business of greater importance than your business. For whereas yours is concerned with death, mine is the bringing forth of life. Mrs Boswell is in labour, and some time tonight or tomorrow I think I may promise you an addition to your crew.’ ‘Ten to one another – woman,’ said Jack. ‘Killick! Killick, there!’ More soup appeared, chops hot and hot, a jug of coffee, and a wedge of solid duff. ‘Will this last long, do you suppose?’ asked Stephen, over the booming of his ’cello. ‘A stern chase is a long chase,’ said Jack. ‘And would you consider this a really stern one?’ ‘It could not well be more so. The Dutchman is in our wake. He is dead astern.’ ‘So that is the significance of the term. I had always supposed it to mean an eager, a grim, a most determined pursuit, inspired by inveterate animosity. Well: and so this is a stern chase. Listen till I tell you something for my part: a breech-presentation is a long, long labour too. It looks to me that the both of us have an active n...

...ight ahead: you will allow me to call for another pot.'