Vernon lounged on the saloon-deck and his face was thoughtful as he looked across the shining water.
"We'll make Liverpool soon after dark, and if I can get the train I want, I'll pull out right then," he said.

"You allowed you might try a run on board an English ship before you went back ?" "It's possible," said Lister.

"Depends on how my wad holds out and on somebody's being willing to give me a post." Vernon nodded.

"That's where I'm leading." He stopped, and Lister wondered why he pondered.

The thing did not seem worth the thought his companion gave it.
"I reckon you don't know Cartwright of the Independent Freighters, but he could put you wise about getting a ship," Vernon resumed.