"So pry," Degare smirked. "They say straightforwardness is a virtue." A momentarily wry look passed over his features, and he shrugged. "Your caution caution does you credit, Mister Honore. I daresay word of our exploits will go public soon enough; whether we like it or not." When the last bit of tobacco leaves had turned to ash in the bowl of his pipe, he tapped the thing on the railing and dumped the ash into the sea.

"I suspect they will as well." It was hard to tell from his tone if he was agreeing for the sake of agreeing or if he was a trifle worried at the prospect. Finally he asked, "Are we meant to be keeping this a secret?"

Degare's expression was cryptic. "I've no doubt your answer depends greatly on how our success may be measured. In the meantime, trusting your instincts in regard to security would be the wisest course."

He tucked the pipe into his waistcoat. "Well, then. The day is yet long. Turn to, Mister Honore."

Which was as direct an answer as he felt likely to get. It was just as well. He tapped his brow in a salute. "Aye, sir, and thank you for your time." Then he turned back down to his duties.