Last week, Joe got a haircut and joined the B.C. Express
Joe was confused at first but soon realized that, to the man, he must have looked like a passenger boarding the ship. "I'm Joe Leboe the new deck-hand," he said. "I'm to start working today on this boat."
The man introduced himself, "I'm Anders, ship's Steward. The Boatswain is busy right now. He's in charge of the deck crew. I suppose I could leave my post for a moment. Here, I'll show you to your cabin." Anders led Joe along the side deck and through a door that led down a narrow staircase.
At the bottom of the stairs they entered a dark hallway. Anders opened a side door on the left and a stream of sunlight from the room fell across their path. "This is your cabin. There's only one bunk left . . . four bunks altogether. You'll be sharing with three other deck-hands"
Joe peered through the doorway. "Is there a lantern or a candle nearby?" It's dark down here."
"No candles allowed below decks," replied the old man. "Them's in the regulations. You can get a storm lantern later. They're safe enough. Right now you'd better get to the wheelhouse. Captain Baker will be expecting you. Here, just leave your bag inside and I'll show you the way."
A few minutes later Joe found himself standing in the wheel-house of the B.C. Express holding his letter of introduction in one hand and his floppy felt hat in the other. He was wondering if any one would notice his new work-boots and hair-do.
The Stewart approached the Captain, "Here's the new Deck-hand sir," he explained. Anders pointed over his shoulder with his thumb."
Joe held out the square white envelope towards the Captain who grabbed the letter and placed it on a side table without acknowledging its contents. They shook hands and introduced themselves. Captain Baker sat down in his chair. Joe remained standing. There was a long silence. The Captain studied his new recruit.
Finally the 'Skipper' spoke, "You'll do fine. You can start working right away. Now, go and get your orders from the Boatswain."
Joe thanked the Captain and turned to leave the wheel-house. As he reached the top of the staircase Captain Baker yelled after him, "Hey you, Deck-boy! You need a haircut!"
In the next episode, THE PAYOFF,
Joe starts his first day onboard the B.C. Express.
