She helped him ashore.

Though he walked with pain, he made an obvious effort to lighten his weight on her shoulder; and this returning bashfulness was a good sign, she thought.

They passed slowly up the steps; at the top he acknowledged her help with a grateful look, but neither spoke until he was seated in a chair by the kitchen fireplace.
Then she withdrew her attention for a moment to glance round upon the clumsy appliances and masculine untidiness of the place.

She noticed that fully half the window-panes had been shattered by the explosion; but otherwise the house had barely suffered.
"Is there any brandy or whiskey in the house ?" He shook his head.
"If you want to drink--" he began, but stopped hastily and added, "I beg your pardon." "Is there any tea ?" He pointed to the cupboard, but dropped his arm with a groan.
She was at his side in a moment.
"Now, listen to me.

You are not to stir or speak, but only to nod or shake your head when I ask a question.