condensed master

The Reluctant Agent
A Compelling Story of Espionage
"No, it's an arrangement, and I'm really looking forward to getting started. I'll
give you the address and if you visit Rio after the war, would you come and see
me?"
"I'd be delighted Wes, and I'm so happy for you, but I should warn you that
I'm hopeless when it comes to throwing a bolas."
Both men laughed. It was time to get about their respective duties, but Wes
had certainly told Will something that he would think about for a long time to
come.
The activity on board had increased again as the ship entered the St. George's
Channel. They would be docking in Liverpool on the following day and Will would
be staying on board for that night, before going home the day after. He preferred
travelling by day, as he could never sleep sitting up on a train.
It seemed no time at all after dropping anchor outside Liverpool that they were
being piloted through into the dock, and the off duty crew were all frantically
packing, hoping to get away from the ship at the earliest possible moment, after it
berthed.
There was no hurry for Will. He had all day and would catch an early train
from Lime Street Station the following morning, hoping to be home around midday.
It would be a good idea to get signed off early and spend a few hours ashore
before getting his last night's sleep on the ship.
Making his way up to the allotted deck he stood in line with the others to sign
the necessary papers, get his train passes, and pay owing, which took only a few
minutes. Collecting everything together, he was about to leave when he noticed
Wes sitting at a small table in the corner, sorting out his papers.
"So there you are Wes, trying to slip away while my back was turned. What
about that five pounds you owe me?"
Wes smiled. "I'm going early as a matter of fact within the hour, I was just
coming down to see you. Here is the address I promised."
"I guess this is it then Wes."
"Yes, I'm catching a train in two hours. Now don't forget Will, don't go into
the native quarter on your own."
"No Dad, I promise," and the two men laughed, shaking hands.
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