Page 89 of Unlikely Heroes

They had arrived back home, where Ben’s calm brilliance became more apparent every day; where nearly brand-new Mary Munro Six sucked contentedly at her mama’s breast; where Meri Six loved him without reservation; where Smitty still learned and observed so quietly; where Nick Bonfort-Six – ah, yes – was returning soon to the fleet as secretary’s assistant to Admiral Collingwood, now that Nick and Headmaster Ferrier had completed their manual of seamanship for not only St. Brendan’s, but also the Navy Board.

There was no need to tell Jamie that his own brain had quieted. The genius remained, but his spectral mentors had become observers. They did not clamor for attention, because he did not need them as he once had. Trafalgar had been his own proving ground, putting all his hard-won skills to work. Euclid was available for consultation, as always, but even his great Greek mentor wisely let him go about his business with a modest amount of commentary.

He had a new crop of boys to teach, among then veteran Avon March, who had moved into the upper level with his same good cheer. He hadn’t told Smitty yet, but there were two frigate captains competing as politely as determined men could, for his apprenticeship as sailing master on their vessels. The enigmatic man, for man Smitty was, would be leaving soon for the Channel Fleet. The new workhouse lads would turn into Gunwharf Rats, because it had become a title of excellence, and not of derision.

And I remain here, Euclid,no fame or fortune for me,he thought.I will teach and train and live with my wife and children. I doubt Mary Munro Carmichael and the Count of Quintanar would have wanted more for me than that I am happy.Do let them know, please, if you can, any of you. I am happy.

“Come inside, Jamie. Meri wants to see you. And please answer any questions the Rats might have for you tomorrow in our seamanship class at the stone basin.”

“With pleasure, Master Six, with pleasure.”

“It’s chaotic here,” Able warned, as he opened the door.

“As it should be.”

As it should be.