“While Gonff was busy dancing with the crabs, I suppose. Thank you very much, Dinny.”

The mousethief chose to ignore the reference to his dancing talent and continued the narrative.

He told of the sands, the movement of mighty sea tides, of the scavenging seabirds and the dead rat whose provisions saved their own lives. He described the meeting with Trubbs and company and how they led the travelers to the mountain. Gonff went on to tell of the fabulous place called Salamandastron, its halls, caves, stairs and passages. He related to his amazed audience the saga of Boar the Fighter, of his roaring forge, gigantic battle sword and his colossal bravery in the war against the sea rats. Gonff told of the struggle that ended with Boar and Ripfang going together to the gates of Dark Forest, and finished with the capture of the ship Bloodwake, now called Wuddshipp.

There was a moment’s complete silence, then the woodlanders flocked about him, babbling questions.

T. B. and some former oarslaves saved Gonff from further harassment by lugging large copper tubs out from the galley.

“Right. Form a line here. It’s skilly and duff time!”

The young ones sniffed the savory odors as he explained, “Seafood and potato stew, that’s skilly. It’ll put hairs on your chest like a giant sea dog. There’s plenty of pepper and sea salt in it, too. Finish it all up and show me a clean plate, then I’ll dish you up some of my own warrior’s recipe: plum and chestnut duff in cream and beechnut sauce. Come on, there’s plenty for everyone.”

* * *

Night fell as Wuddshipp rode at anchor, kedged safe in midstream. Martin emerged from the cabin looking pale and sad after the news he had related to Bella. He called the six hares to him.

“Go to the cabin, Bella wishes to talk with you,” he told them. “Tell her all you know of her father and the time you spent in his company on the mountain.”

“Rely on us, old chap.”

“Only the good times. Mum’s the word, y’know.”

“That’s the ticket. How strong Boar was.”

“Like a father to us. A handsome badger, what!”

“He taught us all so much. He was so understanding.”

“How could we forget such a dear friend.”

* * *

Before they slept, the travelers were closeted with the Corim leaders to hear how Mossflower had fared in their absence. When they had learned all, they went out onto the deck. The little ones had been bedded down in the cabins, but the novelty of hammock sleeping lost out to weariness. Outside on the deck, every creature was assembled, packing the rails and rigging.

Bella stood with her paw upon the tiller, red-eyed with grief but calm and composed.

Martin took command instinctively. The warrior mouse seemed to have grown in stature and confidence since his return, every woodlander now looked upon him with a respect that bordered upon awe. He stood on the peak of the after end gallery, the sword glinting under a full moon.