When the door is shut, Irving says, “It’s William Strong and Tommy Evans, sir. They’re back.” Crozier blinks. “What the devil do you mean, back? Alive?” He feels the first surge of hope he’s had for months. “Oh, no sir,” says Irving. “Just… one body… really. But it was propped against the stern rail when someone saw it as all the search parties were coming in for the day… about an hour ago. The guards on duty hadn’t seen anything. But it was there, sir. On Lieutenant Little’s orders, Shanks and I made the crossing as quickly as we could to inform you, Captain. Shanks Mare as it were.” “It?”
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