"Very pleased to make your acquaintance, Sir Thomas," remarked the skipper, exchanging salutes with the general, and then offering his hand.  "Perhaps you will do me the favour to step below to my cabin with me, and we can then have a chat together.  Meanwhile, Mr Grenvile, if one may judge from your appearance, the sooner you report yourself to the surgeon the better it will be for you."  And, as I touched my hat and retired, he led the way below, closely followed by the general.