sounds from my instrument. You would find that they fall
lightly on the ears and sometimes, I am embarrassed to say
it, risquely.” He risked a knowing wink.
“I see,” was all Corroboc said at first. Then, “Can it
be that after only a day you know where your true interests
lie? Har, truth and a little sun can do that to one. You’d
rather sing for your supper now than scrub for it, har?”
“If you would allow me, Captain.” Jon-Tom tried to
look hopeful and compliant at the same time.
“Far lands, you say? Tis been a longish time since
there’s been any music aboard this tub other than the
screaming of good citizens as they made their way over the
side.” He glanced to his left. Mudge, Jalwar, and Roseroar
had been set to varnishing the railings.
“And what of your mates? How do you think they’ll
react if they have to do your labor as well as their own?”
Licking his lips, Jon-Tom stepped forward and smiled
weakly, concealing his face from sight of his companions.
“Look, sir, I can’t help what they think, but my back’s
Coming apart. I don’t have any fur to protect me from the
sun the way they do, and they don’t seem to care. So why
should I care what they think?”
“That be truth, as ’tis a poor naked-fleshed human you
be. Not that it matters to me. However—” he paused,
considering, while Jon-Tom held his breath, “we’ll give
you a chance, minstrel. Har. But,” he added dangerously,
“if you be lying to me to get out of a day’s work, I’ll put
you to polishing the ship’s heads from the inside out.”
“No, Captain, I wouldn’t lie to you, no sir!” He added