Charles Beadle

“ Vi was vaguely aware that Selwyn had become unusually quiet. The thump of the engines, the occasional clang of an iron away down in the belly of the ship or the harsh creak of a fireman twisting a ventilator in the vain attempt to catch some air for the stokehole were the only sounds.
Captain Kelvett, in white duck, came on deck. The glow of his cigar seemed like a golden insect attracted by Selwyn's. The Old Man poufed his disgust with the heat, and, remarking, “There's more air up top, I think,” mounted the bridge ladder. ”

“ The heat certainly was trying. Although the captain refused Vi laughingly consented to have some. Selwyn became more than usually jubilant.
But the Old Man was right. In such a heat wine, particularly sparkling wine, does have an abnormal effect. The grizzled mate, as soon as he had finished his food, apologized and departed to the bridge to release the second. As he entered the saloon Vi was raising her glass to her lips.
“Oh, Mr. Carnell,” she cried, her eyes sparkling, taken by a mischievous idea, “have a glass of wine. It will do you good.” ”

“ A quick step on the iron deck brought them round to face Selwyn, who stood with his fists clenched, staring through the darkness to identify his assailant.
“Oh, it's the second mate is it, you ——!” he said. “And who in —— asked you to interfere?”
“I did!” said Vi sharply.
“If you weren't a blooming mate I'd give you the thrashing you deserve, you hound,” he continued, ignoring Vi.
“I'm at your. service,” replied Carnell in a low voice, advancing a step.
“One does not fight with a common sailor,” sneered Selwyn. ”