"I am captain now to Temeraire's crew. It is like and also quite unlike my previous occupation," Laurence tells the younger man, after taking a polite bite of the cake. He does not have much of a sweet tooth, but the small pastry is quite good, especially with a draught of the tea.

"You and your brother must make a formidable pair. Perhaps, during our visit, I will learn to emulate you, a little, and in doing so make my own concerns at home somewhat easier to manage."