The best steward I ever had, I found out afterwards, had escaped from gaol.

He never wanted to go ashore, and when the ship was in port almost lived in his pantry." "I never heard of Tasker having been in gaol," said Mr.Tredgold.
"Anyhow, I'm certain that he never broke out of one; he's far too stupid." As he paid this tribute the young man referred to entered laden with parcels, and, gazing awkwardly at the company, passed through the room on tiptoe and began to busy himself in the pantry.

Mr.Tredgold, refusing the captain's invitation to stay for a cup of tea, took his departure.
"Very nice youngster that," said the captain, looking after him.

"A little bit light-hearted in his ways, perhaps, but none the worse for that." He sat down and looked round at his possessions.

"The first real home I've had for nearly fifty years," he said, with great content.