'It helps that the sea does not change greatly with the passing of time,' Merriman replies, gently running a hand down the book's worn leather cover. 'Winds and currents are still much as they were in Master Bourne's day, even if the ships and the men who sail them come and go like the tide.'

He slips the book onto the shelf, returning it to its place amongst its fellows. Only then does he turn round and return Norrington's bow.

'Well met, Mister Norrington.' His calm, unruffled gaze travels briefly round the cabin before returning to Norrington. 'This is not one of the Company's vessels, I gather.'