MD3PAD 127-129

[Toby G Levy]

        Mason mentions the fact that Waddington left Maskelyne
immediately after the Transit of Venus with a "D.I.O" which was a
popular 18th century expression, short for "Damme, I'm off."

        Maskelyne responds that Waddington left three weeks after the
Transit, stating that he had fulfilled the provisions of his contract
and was not interested in going beyond it.

vw#30: Brochette - Food broiled or roasted on a small skewer or spit.

        Maskelyne said that Waddington hated St. Helena.

vw#31: Indiaman -  A large merchant ship formerly used on trade
routes to India.

        Waddington started to complain about the island while they were
still on the ship sailing toward the island. He complained every day he
was there. But Maskelyne heard that when Waddington returned home, he
appeared before the royal academy and praised St. Helena. Waddington
also did much astronomical work on the way back to England and Mason
says he must remember to emulate Waddington. Maskelyne fears that this
indicates Mason doesn't want to help Maskelyne on St Helena either.
Mason assures Maskelyne that he is looking forward to working with him.

        Maskelyne discloses to Mason that there is a tremendous amount
of squalor on the island and that a great many people, including
himself, cannot shake the feeling that the island itself is a living
creature. Mason thinks that Maskelyne is "a dangerously insane person"
and that he must take great pains never to alarm him. Maskelyne admits
that living "alone" on the island might have tipped his moral compass and
that perhaps Mason could set him on the right course. Mason does not
respond.

        As they climb out of town, they are met by a flock of women
hurrying to the harbor to meet the ships so as to get first crack at the
shopping. One woman, Bridget, greets Maskelyne and asks "Who's your
attractive friend?"

        Maskelyne pretends to be surprised to find they have arrived back
at the entrance to the Moon tavern.

Toby