Well, she took him by the arm, above the elbow, as if to lead him, or push him rather.

I was standing not quite ten feet off.

Why should I have gone away?
I was anxious to get back on board as soon as they would let me.

I didn't want to overhear her blamed whispering either.

But I couldn't stay there for ever, so I made a move to get past them if I could.