yet I will observe, Jack, that a bird in the hand waits for no man, as you so often say yourself, and that the Ajax is at present little more than a naked keel. Who knows, by the time she floats her occupation may be gone. She may sail on mere visits of courtesy, saluting the French colours with a blank discharge and a friendly cheer?’ ‘You do not mean there is danger of peace?’ cried Jack, turning quick. ‘That is to say, I mean the blessings of peace are very capital, nothing finer – but one likes to be warned.’ ‘I do not. I know nothing about it. I only put it to you that the Ajax will not
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