human
Beautiful morning this! observed the big man, addressing Captain Gordon. Then after a pause he added:
gpt
We have just come, captain, to ask the favour of your company with us to Kirkwall. The officer here has a summons for you, I believe, and also one for Captain Miller of the Albatross, who is not at present on his ship.
human
A summons! echoed Gordon.
gpt
What--why--what d'ye mean? What have I been doing?
human
Oh! my dear sir, returned the officer from Kirkwall,
gpt
Oh! then, if that's all, I'm here,
human
That is, said the man with the weatherbeaten face, supplementing the officer's explanation--
gpt
Come on, Gordon, old boy! said he;
human
But how far is this place Kirkwall? asked Captain Gordon.
gpt
How long will it take us to get there?
human
How far! Oh! only a matter of a few hours' sail, said Abernethy.
gpt
I've got my pinnace out, and we'll have a fine jaunt. Come along!
human
No. I've to see old Flett this morning to pay him some money. Besides, we're too many for the pinnace. Can we not go by road?
gpt
You can get Oliver Gray's pony and gig, I replied.
human
It's about fourteen miles by road.
gpt
Will you come with me, then, Halcro?
human
Certainly; I'll be very glad. I know the way well.