The Scent of Corruption (The Fighting Sail Series Book 7)
Page 34
As well as being something of a wag, I guessed he was one of the boys ashore the pot house girl mentioned, so persevered.
“Is there any at all hereabouts?” I asked, seriously. “I'm not so fussy.”
“Not much on the water,” he said, after thinking for a spell. “Else I'd be out there now. Billy Danton's lad is off with the measles at present, but it's a large boat, one of the biggest, and they have crew enough to cover. Besides, most round here employ local folk – that's not to say anything against Ninfield,” clearly the time for teasing was over. “But if you've grown up with the fishing, there ain't so much to learn; so mostly we relies on Hastings families, and each other.”
I nodded. That made perfect sense, but was of little use to me. “What about anything not connected with fish?” I would have far rather been involved in coastal trade or perhaps passenger transport.
He seemed unusually cautious, and eyed me carefully before replying.
“Not a lot,” he said. “Some of the boats might be used for other purposes from time to time, but I wouldn't know about that, and they don't take kindly to strangers asking, so best not to.” His tone was firm and I could tell this was more than idle conversation. “As for anything else on the water, well the choice is limited for those what don't like fish. How do you feel about lobster?”
It was getting late and would soon be dark, while there was still a fair way to go if I was to make Rye that day so I decided to move on. He apparently sensed this and stood up when I did.
“Look there's nothing to stop you helping the day boats when they lands; we all muck in and another hand is always welcome. Can't promise a job, or even payment, but you might get to hear of a berth or, if you're really unlucky, earn a few fish for your supper.”
It didn't sound like much of an opportunity, but I was pretty cocky in those days and usually reckoned on getting something out of nothing. Besides I had already made two acquaintances, and one almost seemed keen to help. It's amazing how far you can go with a few gullible folk to lean on.
ASIN: B00SG1K1Q8 ISBN: 0994115296
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