Two bare, skinny arms reached out to him.

Then with a single stride Saltash was beside the bunk and was holding tightly to him a small, whimpering creature that hid its face very deeply against his breast and clutched at him piteously whenever he sought to raise it.
Saltash bent his dark head over the fair one and spoke very gently, yet with authority.

"It's all right, child.

I know.

I've known all along! Don't fret yourself! There's no need.